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

Ignition 1 voltage is supplied directly to the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL). The powertrain control module (PCM) 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

When the ignition switch is ON and the engine is not running, the MIL is illuminated. Once the engine starts, the PCM turns the OFF the MIL. When an engine control system malfunction occurs, the PCM turns ON the MIL.

MIL Function

    • The MIL informs the driver that a malfunction has been detected that requires service.
    • The MIL illuminates during a bulb test and a system test.
    • A diagnostic trouble code (DTC) will be stored if a MIL is requested by the PCM.

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

DTC Type Reference

Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Type Definitions

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References for scan tool information

Circuit/System Testing

Warning: Refer to Electric Coolant Fan Warning in the Preface section.

  1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the X1 harness connector at the PCM.
  2. Ignition ON, observe the MIL.
  3. If the MIL is illuminated, test the MIL control circuit for a short to ground. If the circuit tests normal, replace the instrument panel cluster (IPC).
    If the MIL is not illuminated, replace the PCM.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

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