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 provide an overview of each diagnostic category.

Circuit/System Description

Ignition 1 voltage is supplied to the ignition coil. The engine control module (ECM) provides a ground for the ignition coil (IC) control circuits. When the ECM removes the ground path of the ignition primary coil, the magnetic field produced by the coil collapses. The collapsing magnetic field produces a voltage in the secondary coil which ignites the spark plugs. The sequencing and timing are controlled by the ECM. The ignition coil consist of the following circuits:

    • The ignition 1 voltage
    • The IC 1 and 4 control
    • The IC 2 and 3 control

Diagnostic Aids

The mounting bracket for the coil assembly provides the ground for the ignition coils. Ensure the mounting bolts are torqued to the correct specification. Refer to Fastener Tightening Specifications .

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Engine Controls Schematics

Connector End View Reference

    •  Engine Controls Connector End Views
    •  Engine Control Module Connector End Views

Description and Operation:

Electronic Ignition (EI) System Description

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Circuit Testing
    •  Connector Repairs
    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Wiring Repairs

Scan Tool Reference

    •  Scan Tool Data List
    •  Scan Tool Data Definitions
    •  Scan Tool Output Controls

Circuit/System Testing

    Important: Do not perform this diagnostic procedure if you were not sent here from a misfire DTC or the Engine Cranks but Does Not Run diagnostic.

  1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector of the ignition coil.
  2. Ignition ON, verify a test lamp illuminates between the ignition 1 voltage circuit and ground.
  3. If the test lamp does not illuminate, test the ignition 1 voltage circuit for a short to ground or an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal and the ignition 1 voltage circuit fuse is open, test all components connected to the ignition 1 voltage circuit and replace as necessary.
  4. Ignition OFF, test for less than 2 ohms of resistance between the ignition 1 voltage circuit and the fuse.
  5. If greater than 2 ohms, repair the high resistance on the ignition 1 voltage circuit.
  6. If all circuits/connections test normal, replace the ignition coil.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

Ignition Coil Replacement