GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Step

Action

Value(s)

Yes

No

1

Was the charging system check performed?

--

Go to Step 2

Go to Charging System Check

2

Check the GEN fuse located in the underhood accessory wiring junction block.

Is the GEN fuse open?

--

Go to Step 3

Go to Step 4

3

  1. Replace the GEN fuse.
  2. Start the engine.
  3. Turn on several vehicle accessories, such as headlamps and A/C.
  4. Stop the engine.
  5. Turn off all vehicle electrical accessories.
  6. Check the GEN fuse again.

Is GEN fuse open again?

--

Go to Step 7

Go to Step 4

4

  1. Turn the ignition switch off.
  2. Disconnect the generator connector.
  3. Turn the ignition switch on.
  4. Connect a scan tool to the Data Link Connector (DLC).
  5. On the scan tool, perform the following:
  6. 5.1. Select: Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
    5.2. Select: Special Functions.
    5.3. Select: Engine Output Controls.
    5.4. Select: GEN L Terminal.
    5.5. Command the generator ON.
  7. Using a DMM, measure the voltage between the generator harness connector terminal B and ground.

Is the measured voltage within the specified range?

5V

Go to Step 5

Go to Step 8

5

Using a DMM, measure the voltage between the generator BATT terminal (CKT 2) and ground.

Is voltage measured within the specified range?

B+ (10-14V)

Go to Step 6

Go to Step 9

6

  1. Turn the ignition switch off.
  2. Reconnect the generator connector.
  3. Make sure all vehicle electrical accessories are off.
  4. Start the engine and let it run at idle speed.
  5. Using a DMM, measure the voltage between the battery positive and negative terminals.

Is voltage measured within the specified range?

13-16V

Go to Step 12

Go to Step 13

7

  1. Check for short to ground in circuit 2740.
  2. If circuit 2740 is not shorted to ground, then replace the generator. Refer to Generator Replacement for service procedure.

Is the action complete?

--

Go to Step 14

--

8

  1. Turn the ignition switch off.
  2. Disconnect the PCM connector C2.
  3. Using a DMM, measure the resistance between the PCM harness connector C2 terminal 61 and the generator harness connector terminal B.

Is the resistance measured within the range specified?

Less than 2ohms

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 11

9

  1. Check for high resistance in circuit 2.
  2. Check for a poor ground between the generator housing and engine. Repair as necessary.

Is the repair complete?

--

Go to Step 14

--

10

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is not enabling circuit 225, thus disabling the generator. Refer to Powertrain Control Module Diagnosis in Engine Controls for further diagnosis and repair of the PCM.

Is the action complete?

--

Go to Step 14

--

11

Repair open or poor connection in circuit 225.

Is the repair complete?

--

Go to Step 14

--

12

  1. Load test the generator. Refer to Generator Not Operating Properly for further diagnosis.
  2. If generator electrical test determines the generator output is within specifications, then the instrument cluster is faulty causing the charge indicator lamp to stay on. Refer to Diagnostic System Check - Instrument Cluster in Instrument Panel, Gauges and Console for further diagnosis and repair of the instrument cluster.

Is the action complete?

--

Go to Step 14

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13

Replace the generator. Refer to Generator Replacement for service procedure.

Is the repair complete?

--

Go to Step 14

--

14

  1. Turn the ignition switch off.
  2. Reinstall connectors/components removed.

Is the action complete?

--

Go to Charging System Check

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