Data Display
Use a scan tool to display IPC data. This information assists in determining whether the IPC is operating properly and whether the IPC is sending or receiving the proper data to and from a particular system. The IPC uses data received from other systems in order to carry out certain functions. Therefore, if the IPC receives the incorrect data from another system, the IPC may function improperly. Use the scan tool in order to review the data from the systems that interact with the IPC. An example of the use of the scan tool data display functions, using an oil pressure gauge system malfunction as an example might involve Powertrain Control Module (PCM) data display. If the oil pressure gauge does not display the proper oil pressure readings or a LOW OIL PRESSURE message is displayed. To diagnose this condition using a scan tool, select the PCMs data display function, then check if the PCM is receiving and interpreting the proper oil pressure data from the sensor. If the PCM is not reading the proper oil pressure the IPC is not the problem and the PCM must be further diagnosed. If the PCM is receiving and interpreting the proper oil pressure data, select the IPC data display function, then check if the IPC is able to receive the proper oil pressure data from the PCM. If the IPC oil pressure data is correct and the oil pressure gauge does not function properly, use the scan tool's output control function to command the oil pressure gauge to a fix command position. This is an example of how the scan tool and IPCs diagnostics can provide valuable information without any time spent on disassembly of the vehicle or probing of circuits. This example can be applied to an indicator malfunction or other warning messages displayed as well as other IPC malfunctions.
Displayed Input Status
The scan tool's input display function can be helpful in determining if the IPC is receiving the correct input status. This can assist in determining if a system is "seeing" a system operate as intended. For example, the IPC requires the door ajar switch status from the Body Control Module (BCM) to display the DOOR AJAR message. If the DOOR AJAR message is always displayed, a starting point might be selecting the BCM door ajar input diagnostic function from the scan tool menu. The input status will be displayed as Active or Inactive. If, again using the door ajar switch input to the BCM as an example, if the BCM door ajar input display mode was entered with the door open the scan tool would display Active. If the door is then closed the scan tool display would change to show Inactive. If the input state display never changes when a system is operated, that system could be malfunctioning. If the display input is constantly Active never changing to Inactive, or Inactive never changing to Active, the input could be stuck . This could be caused by a short, open or malfunctioning switch, or in rare instances the BCM itself. Check if the IPC is receiving the correct input information from the Body Control Module (BCM). If the BCM is receiving the correct input information, then perform the same procedure using the IPC to determine if the IPC is actually able to receive this input information on the serial data line from the BCM. If the IPC recognizes the door is close, but still displays the DOOR AJAR message, the IPC requires additional diagnosis. This example can be applied to an indicator malfunction or other warning messages displayed as well as other IPC malfunctions.
Cycle Outputs
A scan tool may be used to command IPC functions ON and OFF without the need for input information from other systems. This can be very helpful in determining if a certain portion of a circuit or component is in working order. Using a scan tool, select the IPC special functions from the scan tool menu. The status of the output being cycled will be shown on the scan tool's display screen. The telltales/indicator can be cycled to turn ON and OFF or gauges may be commanded to a specific position by using the scan tool output control function. Using the IPC output function and the oil pressure gauge as an example, commanding the oil pressure gauge to a specific position can indicate whether oil pressure gauge itself is operating correctly. It also can determine if the IPC internal circuitry is able to operate the oil pressure gauge. If, for example, the IPC unable to respond to the scan tool's request to command the oil pressure gauge to a specific position, then a malfunction may present in the gauge or the IPC itself. If the IPC is able to properly control the oil pressure gauge with the scan tool, but the oil pressure gauge still does not function properly, there is a good possibility that the problem lies with the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) not able to sent the IPC the correct oil pressure data. This example can be applied to an indicator malfunction or other warning messages displayed as well as other IPC malfunctions.
Scan Tool Parameter | Data List | Units Displayed | Typical Data Value |
|---|---|---|---|
Turn the Ignition ON/Engine OFF/Doors, Hatch and Hood Closed/No Switches Pressed | |||
ROM ID | Module Info 1 | ID Number | Varies |
Circuit Board Year | Module Info 1 | Year | Varies |
Circuit Board Month | Module Info 1 | Month | Varies |
Circuit Board Day | Module Info 1 | Day | Varies |
GM Part Number | Module Info 2 | Part Number | Varies |
Cluster Manufacture Year | Module Info 2 | Year | Varies |
Cluster Manufacture Month | Module Info 2 | Month | Varies |
Cluster Manufacture Day | Module Info 2 | Day | Varies |
Oil Pressure | Data 1 | kPa (psi) | 0-550kPa (0-80psi) |
Oil Temp | Data 1 | °C (°F) | -40-215°C (-40-419°F) |
Engine Oil Life Remaining | Data 1 | % | 0-100% |
Engine Coolant Temp | Data 1 | °C (°F) | -40-215°C (-40-419°F) |
Trans Fluid Temp | Data 1 | °C (°F) | -40-215°C (-40-419°F) |
Ignition 1 | Data 1 | Volts | Varies |
Vehicle Speed | Data 1 | km/h (mph) | 0-255 km/h (159 mph) |
RPM | Data 1 | RPM | 0-8000 RPM |
Cruise Control Set Speed | Data 1 | km/h (mph) | 0-255 km/h (159 mph) |
Average Speed | Data 1 | km/h (mph) | 0-255 km/h (159 mph) |
Fuel Remaining | Data 1 | L (gal) | 0-72.3L (0-19.1gal) |
Fuel Range | Data 1 | km (mi) | 0-999 km (0-624 mi) |
Avg. Fuel Economy | Data 1 | km/L (mpg) | 0-99.9 L/100 km (99.9 mpg) |
Inst. Fuel Economy | Data 1 | km/L (mpg) | 0-99.9 L/100 km (99.9 mpg) |
LF Tire Pressure | Data 2 | kPa (psi) | 0-1020 kPa (0-148 psi) |
LR Tire Pressure | Data 2 | kPa (psi) | 0-1020 kPa (0-148 psi) |
RF Tire Pressure | Data 2 | kPa (psi) | 0-1020 kPa (0-148 psi) |
RR Tire Pressure | Data 2 | kPa (psi) | 0-1020 kPa (0-148 psi) |
Elapse Time | Data 2 | Hours | 00-23 Hrs |
Elapse Time | Data 2 | Minutes | 00-59 Min |
Elapse Time | Data 2 | Seconds | 00-59 Sec |
Trip Odometer A | Data 2 | km/mi | 0-99 999 km (0-62,499 mi) |
Trip Odometer B | Data 2 | km/mi | 0-99 999 km (0-62,499 mi) |
Odometer | Data 2 | km (mi) | 0-999 999 km (0-624,999 mi) |
Switch Dimming | Data 2 | Counts | 0-255 |
Ambient Light Sensor | Data 2 | Counts | 0-255 |
ABS Lamp | Inputs | On/Off | Off |
Air Bag Lamp | Inputs | On/Off | Off |
Brake Lamp | Inputs | On/Off | Off |
Security Lamp Status | Inputs | On/Off | Off |
Low Trac. Lamp | Inputs | On/Off | Off |
Check Gauges Lamp | Inputs | On/Off | Off |
KM/H Lamp | Inputs | On/Off | Varies |
MPH Lamp | Inputs | On/Off | Varies |
High Beam Lamp | Inputs | On/Off | Off |
Head Lamp State | Inputs | On/Off | Off |
Check Engine Lamp State | Inputs | On/Off | Off |
Courtesy Switch | Inputs | Active/Inactive | Inactive |
Seat Belt Sensor | Inputs | Buckled/Unbuckled | Varies |
Washer Fluid Sensor | Inputs | OK/Low | Ok |
Left Turn Signal | Inputs | On/Off | Off |
Right Turn Signal | Inputs | On/Off | Off |
Chime | Inputs | On/Off | Off |
Brake Fluid Level | Inputs | OK/Low | Ok |
Coolant Level Input | Inputs | OK/Low | Ok |
Park Brake Switch | Inputs | Active/Inactive | Varies |
Park Lamp Input | Inputs | Active/Inactive | Inactive |
Reset Switch | Inputs | Active/Inactive | Inactive |
DIC Switch 1 | Inputs | Active/Inactive | Inactive |
DIC Switch 2 | Inputs | Active/Inactive | Inactive |
DIC Switch 3 | Inputs | Active/Inactive | Inactive |
DIC Switch 4 | Inputs | Active/Inactive | Inactive |
DIC Switch 5 | Inputs | Active/Inactive | Inactive |
IPC Scan Tool Data Definitions:
The IPC Scan Tool Data Definitions contains a brief description of all IPC related parameters available on the scan tool.
ROM ID:: The scan tool displays the ROM ID number for service identification.Circuit Board Year:: The scan tool displays the year the IPC circuit board was manufactured in for service identification.
Circuit Board Month:: The scan tool displays the month the IPC circuit board was manufactured in for service identification.
Circuit Board Day:: The scan tool displays the day the IPC circuit board was manufactured in for service identification.
Cluster Manufacture Year:: The scan tool displays the year the IPC was manufactured in for service identification.
Cluster Manufacture Month:: The scan tool displays the month the IPC was manufactured in for service identification.
Cluster Manufacture Day:: The scan tool displays the day the IPC was manufactured in for service identification.
Oil Pressure:: The scan tool displays 0-550 kPa (0-80 psi). The IPC obtains oil pressure data from the PCM on the serial data line. The PCM is responsible for calculating and sending the correct oil pressure data to the IPC.
Oil Temp:: The scan tool displays -40-215°C (-40-419°F). The IPC obtains oil temperature data directly from the oil temperature sensor. The IPC is responsible for calculating correct oil temperature data.
Engine Oil Life Remaining:: The scan tool displays 0-100%. The IPC obtains this information from the PCM on the serial data line. The PCM is responsible for calculating and sending the correct oil life data to the IPC.
Engine Coolant Temp:: The scan tool displays -40-215°C (-40-419°F). The IPC obtains coolant temperature data from the PCM on the serial data line. The PCM is responsible for calculating and sending the correct engine coolant temperature data to the IPC.
Trans Fluid Temp:: The scan tool displays -40-215°C (-40-419°F). The IPC obtains trans fluid temperature data from the PCM on the serial data line. The PCM is responsible for calculating and sending the correct trans fluid data to the IPC.
Ignition 1:: The scan tool displays 8-18 volts. The IPC obtains this information from battery voltage measured at the IPC.
Vehicle Speed:: The scan tool displays 0-255 km/h (0-159 mph). The IPC obtains vehicle speed data from the PCM on a dedicated input. The PCM is responsible for calculating correct vehicle speed data.
RPM:: The scan tool displays 0-8000 RPM. The IPC obtains engine speed data from the PCM on a dedicated input. The PCM is responsible for calculating correct engine speed data.
Cruise Control Set Speed:: The scan tool displays 0-255 km/h (0-159 mph). The IPC obtains cruse control set speed data from the PCM on the serial data line. The PCM is responsible for calculating correct cruise control set speed data.
Average Speed:: The scan tool displays 0-255 km/h (0-159 mph. The IPC obtains vehicle speed data from the PCM on a dedicated input. The IPC calculates the average speed the vehicle has traveled per hour of ignition on time.
Fuel Remaining:: The scan tool displays 0-72.3L (0-19.1gal). The IPC obtains fuel gage data from the PCM on the serial data line. The PCM is responsible for calculating and sending the correct fuel gage data to the IPC.
Fuel Range:: The scan tool displays 0-999 km (0-624 mi). The IPC obtains fuel consumption data from the PCM on the serial data line. The IPC calculates the fuel range based upon fuel consumption and fuel level data received from the PCM.
Avg. Fuel Economy:: The scan tool displays 0-99.9 L/100 km (0-99.9 mpg). The IPC obtains fuel consumption data from the PCM on the serial data line. The IPC calculates the fuel range based upon fuel consumption and vehicle speed data received from the PCM.
Inst. Fuel Economy:: The scan tool displays 0-99.9 L/100 km (0-99.9 mpg). The IPC obtains fuel consumption data from the PCM on the serial data line. The IPC calculates the fuel range based upon fuel consumption and vehicle speed data received from the PCM.
LF Tire Pressure:: The scan tool displays 0-1020 kPa (0-148 psi). The IPC obtains LF tire pressure data from the RFA system on the serial data line. The IPC will display a default value of 0 kPa (psi) until LF tire pressure data is received from the RFA system.
LR Tire Pressure:: The scan tool displays 0-1020 kPa (0-148 psi). The IPC obtains LR tire pressure data from the RFA system on the serial data line. The IPC will display a default value of 0 kPa (psi) until LR tire pressure data is received from the RFA system.
RF Tire Pressure:: The scan tool displays 0-1020 kPa (0-148 psi). The IPC obtains RF tire pressure data from the RFA system on the serial data line. The IPC will display a default value of 0 kPa (psi) until RF tire pressure data is received from the RFA system.
RR Tire Pressure:: The scan tool displays 0-1020 kPa (0-148 psi). The IPC obtains RR tire pressure data from the RFA system on the serial data line. The IPC will display a default value of 0 kPa (psi) until RR tire pressure data is received from the RFA system.
Elapse Time (Hours):: The scan tool displays 00-23 Hours. The IPC starts to calculates elapse time when elapse time is displayed on the DIC and the RESET is press on the RH DIC switch.
Elapse Time (Minutes):: The scan tool displays 00-59 Minutes. The IPC starts to calculates elapse time when elapse time is displayed on the DIC and the RESET is press on the RH DIC switch.
Elapse Time (Seconds):: The scan tool displays 00-59 Seconds. The IPC starts to calculates elapse time when elapse time is displayed on the DIC and the RESET is press on the RH DIC switch.
Trip Odometer A:: The scan tool displays 0-99 999 km (0-62,499 mi). The IPC calculates trip odometer information from vehicle speed data received from the PCM on a dedicated input and the serial data line.
Trip Odometer B:: The scan tool displays 0-99 999 km (0-62,499 mi). The IPC calculates trip odometer information from vehicle speed data received from the PCM on a dedicated input and the serial data line.
Odometer:: The scan tool displays 0-999 999 km (0-624,999 mi). The IPC calculates trip odometer information from vehicle speed data received from the PCM on a dedicated input and the serial data line.
Switch Dimming:: The scan tool displays 0-255 counts. The switch dimming counts vary based upon the dimming switch position and ambient light level information. When the dimming switch is rotated to bright, the switch dimming counts will increase. When the dimming switch is rotated to dim, the switch dimming counts will decrease. The headlamps or parklamps must be ON to read this data.
Ambient Light Sensor:: The scan tool displays 0-255 counts. The counts varies based upon the ambient light level at the sensor. When light levels are high (Light), counts will increase. When light levels are low (Dark), counts will decrease. The IPC uses this information for interior light dimming operation.
ABS Lamp:: The scan tool displays ON or OFF. When the ABS indicator is ON, the scan tool will display ON. When the ABS indicator is OFF, the scan tool displays OFF. This indicator is illuminated when the IPC receives a message request from the ABS system on the serial data line.
Air Bag Lamp:: The scan tool displays ON or OFF. When the Air Bag indicator is ON, the scan tool will display ON. When the Air Bag indicator is OFF, the scan tool displays OFF. This indicator is illuminated when the IPC receives a message request from the SIR system on the serial data line.
Brake Lamp:: The scan tool displays ON or OFF. When the BRAKE indicator is ON, the scan tool will display ON. When the BRAKE indicator is OFF, the scan tool displays OFF. This indicator is illuminated by a direct input to the IPC.
Security Lamp Status:: The scan tool displays ON or OFF. When the SECURITY indicator is ON, the scan tool will display ON. When the SECURITY indicator is OFF, the scan tool displays OFF. This indicator is illuminated when the IPC receives a message request from the BCM on the serial data line.
Low Trac. lamp:: The scan tool displays ON or OFF. When the Traction indicator is ON, the scan tool will display ON. When the Traction indicator is OFF, the scan tool displays OFF. This indicator is illuminated when the IPC receives a message request from the ABS system on the serial data line.
Check Gauges Lamp:: The scan tool displays ON or OFF. When the CHECK GAGES indicator is ON, the scan tool will display ON. When the CHECK GAGES indicator is OFF, the scan tool displays OFF.
KM/H Lamp:: The scan tool displays ON or OFF. When the KM/H indicator is ON, the scan tool will display ON. When the KM/H indicator is OFF, the scan tool displays OFF. This indicator is illuminated by a direct input to the IPC.
MPH Lamp:: The scan tool displays ON or OFF. When the MPH indicator is ON, the scan tool will display ON. When the MPH indicator is OFF, the scan tool displays OFF. This indicator is illuminated by a direct input to the IPC.
High Beam Lamp:: The scan tool displays ON or OFF. When the high beam lamps are ON, the scan tool will display ON. When the high beam lamps are OFF, the scan tool displays OFF. This indicator is illuminated by a direct input to the IPC.
Headlamp State:: The scan tool displays ON or OFF. When the headlamps are ON, the scan tool will display ON. When the headlamps are OFF, the scan tool displays OFF.
Check Engine Lamp State:: The scan tool displays ON or OFF. When the engine Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is ON, the scan tool will display ON. When the engine MIL is OFF, the scan tool displays OFF.
Courtesy Switch:: The scan tool displays Active or Inactive. When the courtesy light switch is ON, the scan tool will display Active. When the courtesy light switch is OFF, the scan tool displays Inactive.
Seat Belt Sensor:: The scan tool displays Buckled or Unbuckled. When the seat belts are fastened, the scan tool will display Buckled. When the seat belts are unfastened, the scan tool displays Unbuckled.
Washer Fluid Sensor:: The scan tool displays OK or LOW. When the washer fluid level is low, the scan tool will display LOW. When the washer fluid level is full, the scan tool displays OK.
Left Turn Signal:: The scan tool displays ON or OFF. When the left turn signal is ON, the scan tool will display ON. When the left turn signal is OFF, the scan tool displays OFF.
Right Turn Signal:: The scan tool displays ON or OFF. When the right turn signal is ON, the scan tool will display ON. When the right turn signal is OFF, the scan tool displays OFF.
Chime:: The scan tool displays ON or OFF. When the chime is ON, the scan tool will display ON. When the chime is OFF, the scan tool displays OFF.
Brake Fluid Level:: The scan tool displays OK or LOW. When the brake fluid level is low, the scan tool will display LOW. When the brake fluid level is full, the scan tool displays OK.
Coolant Level Input:: The scan tool displays OK or LOW. When the coolant level is low, the scan tool will display LOW. When the coolant level is full, the scan tool displays OK.
Park Brake Switch:: The scan tool displays Active or Inactive. When the park brake is applied, the scan tool will display Active. When the park brake is released, the scan tool displays Inactive.
Park lamp input:: The scan tool displays Active or Inactive. When the park lamps are ON, the scan tool will display Active. When the park lamps are OFF, the scan tool displays Inactive.
Reset Switch:: The scan tool displays Active or Inactive. If the DIC RESET switch is pressed, the scan tool will display Active. When the switch is released, the scan tool displays Inactive.
DIC Switch 1:: The scan tool displays Active or Inactive. If the DIC switch 1 (FUEL) is pressed, the scan tool will display Active. When the switch is released, the scan tool displays Inactive.
DIC Switch 2:: The scan tool displays Active or Inactive. If the DIC switch 2 (GAGES) is pressed, the scan tool will display Active. When the switch is released, the scan tool displays Inactive.
DIC Switch 3:: The scan tool displays Active or Inactive. If the DIC switch 3 (TRIP) is pressed, the scan tool will display Active. When the switch is released, the scan tool displays Inactive.
DIC Switch 4:: The scan tool displays Active or Inactive. If the DIC switch 4 (OPTIONS) is pressed, the scan tool will display Active. When the switch is released, the scan tool displays Inactive.
DIC Switch 5:: The scan tool displays Active or Inactive. If the DIC switch 5 (E/M) is pressed, the scan tool will display Active. When the switch is released, the scan tool displays Inactive.
