GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Diagnostic Instructions

    •  Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
    •  Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
    •  Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

Diagnostic Fault Information

Circuit

Short to Ground

Open/High Resistance

Short to Voltage

Signal Performance

Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Signal Circuit

1

1

1

--

Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Ground Circuit

--

1

--

--

1. Engine Oil Temperature Indicator Always On

Circuit/System Description

The engine oil temperature sensor is a thermistor that varies in resistance as the engine oil temperature changes. A low engine oil temperature produces a high resistance at the engine oil temperature sensor. A high engine oil temperature produces a low resistance at the engine oil temperature sensor. The instrument panel cluster (IPC) interfaces with the engine oil temperature sensor via a discreet signal circuit and low reference circuit. The IPC applies 5 volts to the engine oil temperature sensor through an internal input resistor that is connected to the signal circuit of the engine oil temperature sensor. The internal resistor in the IPC measures the voltage and calculates temperature. The engine oil temperature range is between -40 to -165°C (-40 to +329°F).

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

    •  Instrument Cluster Schematics
    •  Engine Controls Schematics for the 6.0L engine
    •  Engine Controls Schematics for the 7.0L engine

Connector End View Reference

    •  Displays and Gages Connector End Views
    •  Engine Control Module Connector End Views for the 6.0L engine
    •  Engine Control Module Connector End Views for the 7.0L engine

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Circuit Testing
    •  Connector Repairs
    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Wiring Repairs

Scan Tool Reference

Scan Tool Data List

Circuit/System Testing

  1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the engine oil temperature sensor.
  2. Ignition OFF, test for less than 1 ohm of resistance between the low reference circuit terminaa A or C and ground.
  3. If greater than 1 ohm, test the low reference circuit terminal A or C for an open/high resistance.
  4. Ignition ON, verify the scan tool Engine Oil Temperature Calculated parameter is less than -10°C (+14°F)
  5. If not, test the signal circuit terminal B for a short to ground. If the circuit tests normal, replace the IPC.
  6. Ignition ON, install a 3A fused jumper wire between the signal circuit terminal B and the low reference circuit terminal A or C. Verify the scan tool Engine Oil Temperature Calculated parameter is greater than 150°C (302°F).
  7. If not, test the signal circuit terminal B for a short to voltage or an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the IPC.
  8. If all circuits test normal, test or replace the engine oil temperature sensor.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    •  Engine Oil Level Sensor and/or Switch Replacement for the 6.0L engine
    •  Engine Oil Temperature Gage Sensor Replacement for the 7.0L engine
    •  Control Module References for the IPC replacement, setup, and programming