GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Holden 🢒 2009 🢒 Captiva 🢒 Engine 🢒 Engine Controls and Fuel - 2.2L or 2.4L 🢒 Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Inoperative

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.

Circuit/System Description

Ignition 1 voltage is supplied directly to the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL). The engine control module (ECM) turns the MIL ON by grounding the MIL control circuit. There should be a steady MIL with the ignition ON and the engine OFF.

MIL Operation

The MIL is located on the instrument panel (I/P).

MIL Function
    • The MIL informs the driver that a malfunction has occurred and the vehicle should be taken in for service as soon as possible.
    • The MIL illuminates during a bulb test and a system test.
    • A DTC will be stored if a MIL is requested by the diagnostic.

MIL Illumination
    • The MIL will illuminate with the ignition switch ON and the engine not running.
    • The MIL will turn OFF when the engine is started.
    • The MIL will remain ON if the self-diagnostic system has detected a malfunction.
    • The MIL may turn OFF if the malfunction is no longer present.
    • If the MIL is illuminated and then the engine stalls, the MIL will remain illuminated as long as the ignition switch is ON.
    • If the MIL is not illuminated and the engine stalls, the MIL will not illuminate until the ignition switch is cycled OFF, then ON.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Engine Controls Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views

Electrical Information Reference

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

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References for scan tool information

Circuit/System Verification

Ignition ON, command the MIL ON and OFF with a scan tool. The MIL should turn ON and OFF when commanded.

Circuit/System Testing
  1. If any other indicators are inoperative, refer to Symptoms - Displays and Gages
  2. Ignition OFF, disconnect the ECM harness connector X1.
  3. Ignition ON, connect a 3A fused jumper wire between the control circuit and ground. The MIL should illuminate.
    4. ⇒If the MIL does not illuminate, test the control circuit for a short to ground, or an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the IPC/bulb.
    ⇒If the fuse opens, repair the control circuit for a short to voltage.
    ⇒If the MIL illuminates, inspect for a poor connection or replace the ECM.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    •  Instrument Cluster Replacement
    •  Control Module References for engine control module replacement, setup, and programming.