Circuit Description
The PCM Output (L) terminal to the alternator determines when the alternator will be turned off. It is on under all normal vehicle operating conditions except during low RPM conditions. The alternator is turned off during low RPM conditions to remove excess load from the engine.
The alternator Telltale lamp will illuminate any time the ignition is on and engine is not running. The Telltale will go out after the engine is running and the alternator is putting out the desired amperage.
Conditions for Running the DTC
- The engine is running.
- The Voltage telltale is on.
Conditions for Setting the DTC
- (L) terminal voltage is low while the PCM is commanding the generator on.
- The above condition is present for more than 30 seconds.
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
The PCM stores conditions which were present when the DTC set as Failure Records only. This information will not be stored as Freeze Frame Records.
Conditions for Clearing the MIL/DTC
| • | The DTC becomes history when the conditions for setting the DTC are no longer present. |
| • | The history DTC clears after 40 malfunction free warm-up cycles. |
| • | The PCM receives a clear code command from the scan tool. |
Diagnostic Aids
Check for the following conditions:
| • | Poor connection at the PCM or Generator. Inspect the harness connectors for backed out terminals, improper mating, broken locks, improperly formed or damaged terminals, and poor terminal to wire connection. Refer to Intermittents and Poor Connections Diagnosis , and Wiring Repairs . |
| • | Damaged harness. Inspect the wiring harness for damage. If the harness appears to be OK, disconnect the PCM, turn the ignition on and observe voltmeter connected to the Generator circuit(s) at the PCM harness connector while moving connectors and wiring harnesses related to the Generator control circuit. A change in voltage will indicate the location of the fault. Refer to Intermittents and Poor Connections Diagnosis , and Wiring Repairs . |
Test Description
The number(s) below refer to the step number(s) on the diagnostic table:
Step | Action | Value(s) | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Was the Powertrain OBD System Check performed? | -- | ||
2 |
Does the scan tool indicate that the Commanded Gen is on? | -- | ||
3 |
Command the Generator on with the scan tool while monitoring the J 39200 DMM. Does the voltage change from the first indicated value to the second indicated value? | 0.0V 5.0V | Go to Charging System Check | |
4 | Test the (L) circuit for an open or short to ground and repair if necessary. Refer to Wiring Repairs . Was a problem found? | -- | ||
5 | Test the (L) circuit for a short to voltage and repair if necessary. Refer to Wiring Repairs . Was a problem found? | -- | ||
6 | Test for a poor connection at the PCM and repair if necessary. Refer to Testing for Continuity , Intermittents and Poor Connections Diagnosis , Repairing Connector Terminals , and Connector Repairs . Was a problem found. | -- | ||
|
Important: : Replacement PCM must be programmed, Refer to Powertrain Control Module Replacement/Programming Replace the PCM. Is the action complete? | -- | -- | ||
8 |
Does the scan tool indicate DTC P0620 failed this ignition? | -- | System OK |
