GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

System Identification

For the 1999 model year a second design was introduced approximately mid-year. To identify a second design system, pull the LCD video screen down to the viewing position. The second design system will have a round silver disk (magnetic screen position swtch) on the LCD mounting plate inside the overhead console. This is the easiest method of identifying a second design system. There are two other components that were part of the first design that are no longer on the second design. The Video Entertainment System Relay has been eliminated from the second design and its functionality is incorporated into the Tape Retract Module (TRM). The noise suppression ring has been eliminated in the Video Cassette Player (VCP) harness, due to noise reduction circuitry in the LCD screen.

Diagnostic Approach

Follow these steps in order when diagnosing the Video Entertainment System (VES). This approach reduces diagnostic time and prevents unnecessary parts replacement:

  1. Verify customer complaint: Become familiar with the normal operation of the VES.
  2. Perform these preliminary checks:
  3. • Conduct a thorough visual inspection.
    • Review the vehicle service history.
  4. Perform the VES Diagnostic System Check . Refer to Video System System Check for more information. The VES Diagnostic System Check performs a complete test of the VES, and leads the technician through an organized diagnostic approach that includes finding symptoms. Follow the symptom tables exactly in order to make an effective repair.
  5. Check for service bulletins, videos, and newsletters.
  6. Diagnosing a symptom with no published diagnostics: Analyze the complaint, then develop a plan for the diagnostics utilizing the wiring diagrams and theory of operation.

After isolating the cause of the malfunction, make the necessary repairs. When repairs are completed, repeat the VES Diagnostic System Check to test the operation of the VES and to confirm that the malfunction has been corrected successfully.

Diagnostic System Check

The Video Entertainment System (VES) Diagnostic System Check is an organized approach to identify problems associated with the VES.

The VES Diagnostic System Check must be the starting point for any VES-related complaint, and will direct you to the next logical step in diagnosing the complaint.

The VES is a very reliable component and is not likely the cause of the typical malfunction. Most VES complaints are linked to faulty wiring, connectors, and other components.

Understanding how the VES operates and using the diagnostic tables correctly will reduce diagnostic time and prevent unnecessary parts replacement. Refer to Video System Operation and Video System Circuit Description for more information.