Refer to
IAC, Engine Oil Level, Engine Oil Pressure, EGR, EVAP Vent
.
Circuit Description
The engine oil level switch is a simple float switch that is grounded when the engine oil level is OK. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) inspects the engine oil level switch circuit at startup. Before inspecting the state of the engine oil level switch, the PCM performs a test routine based on time and engine coolant temperature to ensure that the engine oil has drained back into the sump. To test for low oil level at start-up, one of the following conditions must be present:
| • | The engine coolant temperature must be more than 15°C (59°F). |
| • | The engine coolant temperature at key ON must be at least 12°C (22°F) cooler than the engine coolant temperature at the last key OFF. |
The low oil level lamp will be illuminated for about a minute when the PCM inspects for low oil level and the engine oil level switch indicates that a low oil level condition exists (engine oil level switch circuit not grounded). When the ignition is first turned ON, the IPC commands the low oil level lamp ON for a brief period of time to test the bulb.
Diagnostic Aids
For diagnosis of the instrument panel, perform the Diagnostic System Check - Instrument Cluster in Instrument Panel, Gauges and Console.
Inspect for the following conditions:
Many situations may lead to an intermittent condition. Perform each inspection or test as directed.
Important: : Remove any debris from the connector surfaces before servicing a component. Inspect the connector gaskets when diagnosing or replacing a component. Ensure that the gaskets are installed correctly. The gaskets prevent contaminate intrusion.
| • | Loose terminal connection |
| - | Use a corresponding mating terminal to test for proper tension. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections , and to Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems for diagnosis and repair. |
| - | Inspect the harness connectors for backed out terminals, improper mating, broken locks, improperly formed or damaged terminals, and faulty terminal to wire connection. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections , and to Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems for diagnosis and repair. |
| • | Damaged harness--Inspect the wiring harness for damage. If the harness inspection does not reveal a problem, observe the display on the scan tool while moving connectors and wiring harnesses related to the sensor. A change in the scan tool display may indicate the location of the fault. Refer to Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems for diagnosis and repair. |
| • | Inspect the powertrain control module (PCM) and the engine grounds for clean and secure connections. Refer to Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems for diagnosis and repair. |
If the condition is determined to be intermittent, reviewing the Snapshot or Freeze Frame/Failure Records may be useful in determining when the DTC or condition was identified.
Test Description
The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.
-
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.
-
For the PCM to test engine oil level, start-up engine coolant temperature must be at least 12° C (22° F) cooler than the engine coolant temperature was last time the ignition was turned off. Allowing the engine to warm and then cool ensures that the PCM inspects the engine oil level switch and that the information displayed on the scan tool is current.
Step | Action | Values | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 |
Important: : Ensure that engine oil level is not low, before continuing diagnosis. Refer to Fluid and Lubricant Recommendations in Maintenance and Lubrication. Did you perform the Powertrain OBD System Check? | -- | ||
2 | Observe oil level display on the scan tool. Does oil level display OK? | -- | Go to Diagnostic Aids | |
3 |
Is the test lamp ON? | -- | ||
4 |
Does the DMM display voltage near the specified value? | B+ | ||
5 | Connect the DMM between the oil level switch signal circuit and chassis ground. Does the DMM display a voltage near the specified value? | B+ | ||
6 |
Was a problem found? | -- | Go to Diagnostic Aids | |
7 |
Was a problem found? | -- | ||
8 |
Was a problem found? | -- | ||
9 | Locate and repair open in the oil level switch ground circuit. Refer to Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems. Is the action complete? | -- | -- | |
10 | Replace the oil level switch. Is the action complete? | -- | -- | |
|
Important: : Replacement PCM must be programmed. Refer to Powertrain Control Module Replacement/Programming . Replace the PCM. Is the action complete? | -- | -- | ||
12 |
Does oil level display OK? | -- | System OK |
