GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Circuit Description

The engine control module (ECM) uses the generator turn-on signal circuit to control the voltage output of the generator. When a different voltage is desired, the ECM will change the pulse width modulation (PWM) signal to the voltage regulator via the generator turn-on signal circuit. This causes the voltage regulator to the voltage output of the generator. The ECM has fault detection circuitry which monitors the state of the generator turn-on signal circuit. If the fault detection circuit senses a voltage other than what is expected, this DTC will set. The voltage regulator also contains fault detection circuitry. If the regulator detects a problem, the regulator will ground the generator turn-on signal circuit, pulling the voltage low. This also causes the ECM to set the DTC.

DTC Descriptor

This diagnostic procedure supports the following DTC:

DTC P1668 Generator L-Terminal Control Circuit

Conditions for Running the DTC

Key ON Test

    • The key is in the ON position for 5 seconds.
    • The engine is OFF.

Engine Run Test

    • The engine is running.
    • The engine speed is less than 3,000 RPM.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

Key ON Test

    • The ECM detects a high signal voltage on the generator turn on signal circuit for at least 5 seconds.
    • The engine must be started.

During the RUN test, the ECM detects a low signal voltage on the generator turn on signal circuit for at least 5 seconds.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • The ECM sends a class 2 message to the instrument panel cluster (IPC) to illuminate the charge indicator and/or turn on a message.
    • The ECM will not illuminate the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL).
    • The ECM will store the conditions present when the DTC set as Fail Records data only.

Conditions for Clearing the MIL/DTC

    • The history DTC will clear after 40 consecutive warm-up cycles have occurred without a malfunction.
    • The DTC can be cleared by using the scan tool Clear DTC Information function.

Step

Action

Value

Yes

No

Schematic Reference: Starting and Charging Schematics

Connector End View Reference: Engine Control Module Connector End Views in Engine Controls - 3.6L (LY7)

1

Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle?

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Go to Step 2

Go to Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle in Vehicle DTC Information

2

  1. Install a scan tool.
  2. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
  3. Wait 5 seconds.
  4. Start the engine.
  5. With a scan tool, monitor the DTC information for DTC P1668 in Engine Controls.

Does the scan tool indicate that DTC P1668 has passed?

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Go to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections in Wiring Systems

Go to Step 3

3

  1. Turn OFF the engine.
  2. Disconnect the generator harness connector.
  3. Start the engine.
  4. With a DMM measure the PWM signal between the generator turn on signal circuit and ground.

Is the PWM signal within the specified value?

15-87%

Go to Step 5

Go to Step 4

4

Test the generator turn on signal circuit for a short or open. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Did you find and correct the condition?

--

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 7

5

Test the generator battery positive voltage output circuit for a high resistance or open. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Did you find and correct the condition?

--

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 6

6

Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the generator. Refer to Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Did you find and correct the condition?

--

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 8

7

Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the engine control module (ECM). Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Did you find and correct the condition?

--

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 9

8

Replace the generator. Refer to Generator Replacement .

Did you complete the replacement?

--

Go to Step 10

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9

Replace the ECM. Refer to Control Module References in Computer/Integrating Systems for replacement, setup, and programming.

Did you complete the replacement?

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Go to Step 10

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10

  1. Use the scan tool in order to clear the DTCs .
  2. Operate the vehicle within the Conditions for Running the DTC as specified in the supporting text.

Does the DTC reset?

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Go to Step 3

System OK