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

An intake manifold tuning (IMT) valve or variable geometry induction system (VGIS) is used to change the intake manifold plenum configuration. When the IMT valve is open, the intake manifold is configured to one large plenum. When the IMT valve is closed, the intake manifold is configured to 2 smaller plenums. The IMT valve improves engine performance at low and high engine speeds depending on the engine load. Ignition 1 voltage is supplied directly to the IMT valve solenoid. The engine control module (ECM) controls the solenoid by grounding the control circuit. The IMT system contains the following components:

    • The IMT valve solenoid
    • The IMT valve position sensor
    • The IMT valve vacuum reservoir
    • The IMT valve vacuum actuator
    • The intake manifold tuning valve
    • The intake manifold

Reference Information

Description and Operation

Air Intake System Description

Special Tools Required

J 23738-A Vacuum Pump

Circuit/System Verification

  1. Engine idling, verify that DTC P0660 is not set.
  2. If the DTC is set, refer to DTC P0660.
  3. Engine idling, command the IMT valve ON with a scan tool. The IMT valve vacuum actuator should move to the closed position.

Circuit/System Testing

  1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the vacuum hose at the vacuum actuator.
  2. Connect a J 23738-A to the port of the vacuum actuator. Apply 51 kPa (15 Hg) of vacuum to the vacuum actuator. Verify the vacuum actuator moves, and that the vacuum remains steady.
  3. If the vacuum actuator does not move, replace the vacuum actuator.
    If the vacuum decreases, replace the vacuum actuator.
  4. Disconnect the harness connector of the IMT valve solenoid.
  5. Ignition ON, verify a test lamp illuminates between the ignition 1 voltage circuit and ground.
  6. If the test lamp does not illuminate, repair the ignition 1 voltage circuit for a short to ground or an open/high resistance. Replace the fuse, if necessary.
  7. Ignition OFF, connect a test lamp between the control circuit and the ignition 1 voltage circuit.
  8. Engine idling, command the IMT valve solenoid ON and OFF with a scan tool. The test lamp should turn ON when the solenoid is commanded OFF, and OFF when the solenoid is commanded ON.
  9. If the test lamp remains ON all the time, test for a short to ground on the control circuit. If circuit/connections test normal, replace the ECM.
    If the test lamp remains OFF all the time, test for a short to voltage or an open/high resistance on the control circuit. If circuit/connections test normal, replace the ECM.
  10. Connect the vacuum hose to the vacuum actuator.
  11. Connect the harness connector of the IMT valve solenoid.
  12. Disconnect the vacuum supply hose from the intake manifold.
  13. Important: The vacuum displayed on the J 23738-A should decrease after engine start, and then stabilize.

  14. Connect a J 23738-A to the vacuum supply hose. Apply 51 kPa (15 Hg) of vacuum to the vacuum supply hose. Engine idling, verify that the vacuum decreases.
  15. If the vacuum does not decrease, repair the restriction, or replace the IMT valve solenoid.
  16. Engine idling, monitor the vacuum display. Verify that the vacuum stabilizes and remains steady.
  17. If the vacuum decreases, repair the vacuum leak.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    •  Intake Manifold Tuning Valve Actuator Solenoid Replacement
    •  Intake Manifold Tuning Valve Actuator Replacement
    •  Intake Manifold Tuning Valve Vacuum Reservoir Replacement