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 provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

DTC Descriptor

DTC P1601: Lost Communication with TCM

Circuit/System Description

The controller area network (CAN) serial data bus is used by the engine control module (ECM) and automatic transmission control module (TCM) to share information. An example of information shared is engine speed, engine coolant temperature, manifold absolute pressure (MAP), throttle position, and vehicle speed.

Conditions for Running the DTC

    • The ignition is ON.
    • The engine is running greater than 2 seconds.
    • The ignition 1 voltage is greater than 11 volts.
    • No output controls are active.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The ECM does not detect a valid message from the TCM.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

DTC P1601 is a Type B DTC.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

DTC P1601 is a Type B DTC.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Engine Controls Schematics

Electrical Information Reference

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

DTC Type Reference

Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Type Definitions

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References for scan tool information

Circuit/System Verification

  1. Ignition ON, attempt to establish communication with the TCM with a scan tool.
  2. If no communication with the TCM, refer to Scan Tool Does Not Communicate with CAN Device for further diagnosis.
  3. Operate the vehicle within the Conditions for Running the DTC to verify the DTC does not reset. You may also operate the vehicle within the conditions that you observed from the Freeze Frame/Failure Records data.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

Control Module References for engine control module replacement, setup, and programming