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 engine control module (ECM)/powertrain control module (PCM) determines when the engine oil should be changed and calculates the oil life in percent. The ECM/PCM sends the engine oil life information via the serial data circuit to the instrument panel cluster (IPC). The IPC receives the oil life data from the ECM/PCM and displays the CHANGE ENGINE OIL message as required by the ECM/PCM.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Instrument Cluster Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Displays and Gages Connector End Views

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. Verify the scan tool Engine Oil Life Remaining parameter is greater than 0 percent.
  2. If equal to 0 percent, reset the engine oil life.
  3. If the percent value is normal, replace the IPC.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    •  GM Oil Life System Resetting
    •  Control Module References for PCM or IPC replacement, setup, and programming