GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Circuit Description

The instrument panel cluster (IPC) illuminates the stability system caution indicator during the IPC bulb check or when the electronic brake control module (EBCM) sends a serial data message to the IPC commanding the indicator ON. The stability system caution indicator is used to indicate when the vehicle stability enhancement system (VSES) is disabled.

During aggressive driving conditions which repeatedly activate the VSES or traction control system (TCS), one or more of the solenoid coils may become overheated. The stability system caution indicator is displayed at this time and the EBCM disables all VSES/TCS brake pressure applications in an attempt to decrease the solenoid temperatures. Coil temperatures are estimated by the EBCM based on ambient temperature and monitored solenoid activation and may not coincide with actual solenoid temperatures. The stability system caution indicator turns OFF and normal VSES/TCS activity resumes when the EBCM determines that the solenoids have cooled sufficiently.

Diagnostic Aids

The VSES solenoid coils may overheat during aggressive driving, causing the VSES to be disabled temporarily.

A medium-low brake fluid level in the master cylinder reservoir may cause the stability system caution indicator to be illuminated during stopping or turning maneuvers. This condition will also cause the red brake warning indicator to turn ON. Ensure the master cylinder reservoir has an adequate brake fluid level.

If the stability system caution indicator turns ON due to any of the above conditions, no diagnosis or repair of the VSES is required.

Step

Action

Yes

No

1

Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle?

Go to Step 2

Go to Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle

2

Turn ON the ignition and observe the stability system caution indicator.

Does the stability system caution indicator remain illuminated after the instrument panel cluster (IPC) bulb check is completed?

Go to Step 3

Go to Diagnostic Aids

3

Observe the brake warning indicator on the IPC.

Is the brake warning indicator always ON?

Go to Brake Warning Indicator Malfunction

Go to Step 4

4

  1. Select the Instrument Panel Cluster Special Functions menu on the scan tool.
  2. Select Lamp Tests.
  3. Command the IPC indicator lamps OFF.

Does the stability system caution indicator turn OFF?

Go to Step 5

Go to Step 6

5

Important: Following the electronic brake control module (EBCM) replacement, perform the set-up procedure for the EBCM and use the scan tool to perform the Tire Size Calibration procedure.

Replace the EBCM. Refer to Electronic Brake Control Module Replacement .

Did you complete the replacement?

Go to Step 7

--

6

Important: Perform the set-up procedure for the IPC.

Replace the IPC. Refer to Instrument Cluster Replacement .

Did you complete the replacement?

Go to Step 7

--

7

  1. Use the scan tool to clear all DTCs from all modules.
  2. Turn OFF the ignition for 5 seconds.
  3. Turn ON the ignition and observe the stability system caution indicator.

Does the stability system caution indicator remain illuminated after the IPC bulb check is completed?

Go to Step 3

System OK