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 oil level switch is a normally closed switch that opens when there is a low engine oil condition. When the switch is open the engine control module (ECM) will detect a high signal voltage input. During a low engine oil condition the ECM sends a high speed GMLAN message to the body control module (BCM). The BCM then sends a message via low speed GMLAN to the instrument panel cluster (IPC) requesting illumination of the ENGINE OIL LOW ADD OIL message in the driver information center (DIC).

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

    •  Instrument Cluster Schematics
    •  Engine Controls Schematics for the 4.8L, 5.3L, 6.0L, and 6.2L engines

Connector End View Reference

    •  Displays and Gages Connector End Views
    •  Engine Control Module Connector End Views for the 4.8L, 5.3L, 6.0L, and 6.2L engines
    •  Inline Harness 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. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector of the engine oil level switch.
  2. Ignition OFF, test for less than 1 ohm of resistance between the ground circuit and ground.
  3. If greater than 1 ohm, test the ground circuit for an open/high resistance.
  4. Install a 3-amp fused jumper wire between the signal circuit and ground. Verify the scan tool Engine Oil Level Switch parameter is OK.
  5. If not OK, test the signal circuit for an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the ECM.
  6. If all circuits test normal, test or replace the engine oil level switch.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    •  Engine Oil Level Sensor and/or Switch Replacement
    •  Control Module References for ECM or IPC replacement, setup, and programming