GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Object Number: 515397  Size: SF
Engine Controls Component Views
Engine Data Sensors-MAF, EVAP Vent, EVAP Purge, EGR
OBD II Symbol Description Notice
Handling ESD Sensitive Parts Notice
Handling ESD Sensitive Parts Notice

Circuit Description

There should always be a steady MIL with the ignition ON and the engine OFF. Ignition feed voltage is supplied directly to the MIL bulb. The powertrain control module (PCM) turns the MIL ON by grounding the MIL driver circuit. No MIL with the key ON, engine not running and DTC P0650 set suggests an open in the MIL driver circuit.

MIL Operation

The malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) is located on the instrument panel (CHECK ENGINE) or (SERVICE ENGINE SOON). The MIL performs the following functions:

    • It informs the driver that a problem has occurred and that the vehicle should be taken for service as soon as possible.
    • As a bulb check and system check, the MIL will illuminate with the ignition switch ON and the engine not running. when the engine is started, the MIL will turn OFF. If the MIL remains ON, the self-diagnostic system has detected a problem. If the problem goes away, the MIL will turn OFF in most cases, but a diagnostic trouble code will remain stored.
    • If the MIL is illuminated, then the engine stalls, the MIL will remain Illuminated so long as the ignition switch is ON.
    • If the MIL is not illuminated and the engine stalls, the MIL will not illuminate until the ignition switch is cycled OFF, then ON.

Perform the Powertrain On-Board Diagnostic System Check first, when the following conditions are present:

    • If the MIL does not turn ON, when the ignition switch is turned to the RUN position
    • When the MIL remains ON while the engine is running
    • When you suspect a driveability problem

Diagnostic Aids

An intermittent may be caused by a poor connection, rubbed through wire insulation or a brOKen wire inside the insulation. Check for the following items:

    • Inspect the PCM harness and connectors for the following conditions:
       - Improper mating
       - BrOKen locks
       - Improperly formed or damaged terminals
       - Poor terminal to wire connection
       - Damaged harness
    • If the engine runs OK, check for a faulty light bulb, an open in the MIL driver circuit, or an open in the instrument cluster ignition feed.
    • If the engine cranks but will not run, check for an open PCM ignition or battery feed or a poor PCM to engine ground.

Test Description

The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table:

  1. If the MIL DTC is set, the MIL Control Circuit table will better diagnose the condition.

  2. Using a test lamp connected to B+, probe each of the PCM ground terminals to ensure that a good ground is present.

  3. This vehicle is equipped with a PCM which utilizes an Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM). When the PCM is being replaced, the new PCM must be programmed.

No Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL)

Step

Action

Values

Yes

No

1

Did you perform the Powertrain On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check?

--

Go to Step 2

Go to Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check

2

Does the scan tool indicate the MIL DTC set?

--

Go to DTC P0230 Fuel Pump Relay Control Circuit

Go to Step 3

3

Inspect the PCM feed fuses.

Are the fuses OK?

--

Go to Step 4

Go to Step 9

4

  1. Turn OFF the ignition.
  2. Disconnect the PCM.
  3. Turn ON the ignition.
  4. Probe the PCM ignition feed circuit using a test lamp that is connected to a good ground.

Does the test lamp illuminate?

--

Go to Step 5

Go to Step 8

5

Probe the PCM battery feed circuit using a test lamp that is connected to a good ground.

Does the test lamp illuminate?

--

Go to Step 6

Go to Step 8

6

Test for faulty PCM grounds or poor PCM ground connections. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections .

Did you find and correct the condition?

--

Go to Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check

Go to Step 7

7

Important: The replacement PCM must be reprogrammed.

Replace the PCM. Refer to Powertrain Control Module Replacement/Programming .

Did you complete the replacement?

--

Go to Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check

--

8

Locate and repair open in PCM battery feed circuit or the PCM ignition feed circuit. Refer to Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Did you complete the repair?

--

Go to Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check

--

9

Locate and repair short to ground in PCM ignition feed circuit or the PCM battery feed circuit. Refer to Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Did you complete the repair?

--

Go to Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check

--