GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Step

Action

Value(s)

Yes

No

Important: 

   • Battery must be in a charged state to avoid misdiagnosis.
   • The J 35616-A Connector Test Adapter Kit must be used whenever a diagnostic procedure requires checking or probing a terminal. Using the adapter will ensure that no damage to the terminal will occur, as well as giving and idea of whether contact tension is sufficient. If contact tension seems incorrect, refer to Checking Terminal Contact in General Electrical Diagnosis Procedures for specifics.

1

  1. Disconnect the generator connector.
  2. Attach a fused jumper from the generator connector circuit 225 to ground.
  3. Turn the ignition switch to the RUN position.

Is the charge indicator ON?

--

Go to Step 2

Go to step 5

2

Use a DMM to check for a poor connection at the generator terminal L.

Is there a poor connection at the generator terminal L?

--

Go to Step 3

Go to Step 4

3

Repair the poor connection at the generator terminal L.

Has the repair been made and the system rechecked?

--

System OK

--

4

Replace the generator. Refer to Generator Replacement for 3100 (VIN M) or Generator Replacement for 3800 (VIN K).

Has the repair been made and the system rechecked?

--

System OK

--

5

  1. Disconnect the PCM C2 connector.
  2. Attach a fused jumper from the PCM connector circuit 25 to ground.

Is the charge indicator ON?

--

Go to Step 6

Go to Step 9

6

Use a DMM to check for a poor connection or open in circuit 225.

Is there a poor connection or open in circuit 225?

--

Go to Step 7

Go to Step 8

7

Repair the poor connection or open in circuit 225.

Has the repair been made and the system rechecked?

--

System OK

--

8

Service the PCM. Refer to Powertrain Control Module Replacement/Programming for 3100 (VIN M) or Powertrain Control Module Replacement/Programming for 3800 (VIN K).

Has the repair been made and the system rechecked?

--

System OK

--

9

Use a DMM to check the charge indicator bulb, circuit 39 and circuit 25 for a poor connection or open.

Is there a poor connection or open in the charge indicator bulb, circuit 39 or circuit 25?

--

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 11

10

Repair the poor connection or open in the charge indicator bulb, circuit 39 or circuit 25.

Has the repair been made and the system rechecked?

--

System OK

--

11

Replace the instrument cluster. Refer to Instrument Panel Cluster in Instrument Panel, Gauges and Console.

Has the repair been made and the system rechecked?

--

System OK

--