Circuit Description
The powertrain control module (PCM) uses the charge indicator control circuit to control the load of the generator on the engine. A high side driver in the PCM applies a voltage to the voltage regulator. This signals the voltage regulator to turn the field circuit ON and OFF. When the PCM turns ON the high side driver, the voltage regulator turns ON the field circuit. When the PCM turns OFF the high side driver, the voltage regulator turns OFF the field circuit.
The PCM monitors the state of the charge indicator control circuit. The PCM should detect a low charge indicator control circuit voltage when the key is ON and the engine is OFF, or if the charging system malfunctions. With the engine running, the PCM should detect a high charge indicator control circuit. The PCM performs key ON and RUN tests to determine the status of the charge indicator control circuit. During the key ON test, if the PCM detects a high charge indicator control circuit voltage, the DTC will set. The DTC will also set if, during the RUN test, the PCM detects a low charge indicator control circuit. When the DTC sets, the PCM will send a class 2 serial data message to the IPC to illuminate the charge indicator.
Conditions for Running the DTC
| • | The ignition is ON. |
| • | The engine speed is more than 1,000 RPM. |
Conditions for Setting the DTC
| • | The PCM detects the GEN L-Terminal active with the ignition ON. |
| • | The PCM detects the GEN L-Terminal inactive with the engine running. |
| • | The above conditions are present for 6 seconds. |
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
| • | The PCM will record the operating conditions presents when the DTC set as Failure Records data only. |
| • | The instrument panel cluster (IPC) displays a message. |
| • | The malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) will not illuminate. |
Conditions for Clearing the DTC
| • | The Conditions for Setting the DTC are no longer present. |
| • | A history DTC will clear after 40 malfunction free ignition cycles. |
| • | The PCM receives the clear code command from the scan tool. |
Step | Action | Value | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Schematic Reference: Starting and Charging Schematics Connector End View Reference: Engine Electrical Connector End Views | ||||
1 | Did you perform the Engine Electrical Diagnostic System Check? | -- | Go to Step 2 | |
2 |
Does the scan tool indicate that DTC P1637 has passed? | -- | Go to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections in Wiring Systems | Go to Step 3 |
3 |
Does the voltage measure near the specified value? | 10-11 volts | Go to Step 5 | Go to Step 4 |
4 | Test the charge indicator control 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 8 | Go to Step 6 |
5 | 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 8 | Go to Charging System Test |
6 | Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the powertrain control module (PCM). 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 8 | Go to Step 7 |
7 |
Important: The replacement PCM must be programmed. Replace the PCM. Refer to Powertrain Control Module Replacement in Engine Controls - 4.8L, 5.3L, and 6.0L or Powertrain Control Module Replacement in Engine Controls - 8.1L. Is action complete? | -- | Go to Step 8 | -- |
8 |
Does the DTC reset? | -- | Go to Step 2 | System OK |
