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.

Circuit/System Description

The compass information is displyed in the driver information center (DIC). The electronic compass module interfaces with the DIC via the compass data signal circuit and the compass clock signal circuit. The two circuits function as a dedicated serial data communication link between the electronic compass module and the DIC. The communication link is a two-wire bi-directional link between the DIC and the electronic compass module only. The DIC controls the compass clock signal circuit used for reading and writing data. The compass data signal circuit is used to transmit data between the DIC and the electronic compass module. The electronic compass module internal fault detection is handled by the DIC and if the DIC does not receive a valid compass information from the electronic compass module, the DIC blanks the compass display.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

    •  Driver Information System Schematics
    •  Instrument Cluster Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Displays and Gages Connector End Views

Description and Operation

Driver Information Center (DIC) Description and Operation

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 ON, verify that the DIC compass does not display "C" or "CAL".
  2. If the DIC compass displays "C" or "CAL", perform the Compass Calibration and Magnetic Variance procedure. Refer to Electronic Compass Calibration .
  3. Verify that the DIC compass display is not blank.
  4. If the DIC compass display is blank, replace the DIC.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

Control Module References for the DIC or electronic compass module replacement, setup, and programming.