Diagnostic Instructions
| • | Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure. |
| • | Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach. |
| • | Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category. |
Diagnostic Fault Information
Circuit | Short to Ground | Open/High Resistance | Short to Voltage | Signal Performance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Engine Oil Level Sensor/Switch Signal Circuit | 1 | 1 | 1 | -- |
Engine Oil Level Low Reference Circuit/Ground | -- | 1 | -- | -- |
1. Low Engine Oil Level Indicator Always On | ||||
Circuit/System Description
The engine oil level (EOL) sensor/switch is normally closed but opens with a low engine oil level condition. The ECM monitors the engine oil level sensor/switch signal circuit. With the ignition switch turned ON and the engine not running, the engine control module (ECM) detects a low signal voltage at the signal circuit of engine oil level sensor/switch. When the engine is running and the engine oil level is low, the ECM detects a high signal voltage at the signal circuit of the engine oil level sensor/switch. When the ECM detects a high signal voltage at the engine oil level sensor/switch signal circuit , the ECM sends a serial data message to the instrument panel cluster (IPC) requesting the low engine oil message. The IPC displays the Low Engine Oil Level message in the DIC when a low engine oil level condition is present.
Diagnostic Aids
| • | When the Low Engine Oil Level indicator displays in the IPC or driver information center (DIC) due to a low engine oil level condition, make sure that the ignition is turned OFF before adding or changing the oil in the vehicle. Failure to do so may result in the Low Engine Oil Level indicator or message staying on after the engine attains proper oil level. |
| • | Before replacing the IPC because of the Low Engine Oil Level indicator staying ON after an oil change or engine oil addition, it is necessary for the engine to undergo a thermocycle process. The IPC may not be malfunctioning but only needs the Low Engine Oil Level indicator to turn OFF after an engine thermocycle process. Refer to Indicator/Warning Message Description and Operation . |
Reference Information
Schematic Reference
| • | Engine Controls Schematics for the 4.6L engine |
| • | Engine Controls Schematics for the 4.4L engine |
Connector End View Reference
| • | Engine Control Module Connector End Views for the 4.6L engine |
| • | Engine Control Module Connector End Views for the 4.4L engine |
Description and Operation
Instrument Cluster Description and Operation
Electrical Information Reference
Scan Tool Reference
Circuit/System Testing (Switch)
- Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the engine oil level switch.
- Ignition OFF, test for less than 1 ohm of resistance between the ground circuit terminal B and ground.
- Install a 3-amp fused jumper wire between the signal circuit terminal A and the ground circuit terminal B. Verify the scan tool Engine Oil Level Switch parameter is OK.
- If all circuits test normal, test or replace the engine oil level switch.
| ⇒ | If greater than 1 ohm, test the ground circuit for an open/high resistance. |
| ⇒ | If not OK, test the signal circuit for an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the ECM. |
Circuit/System Testing (Sensor)
- Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the engine oil level sensor.
- Ignition OFF, test for less than 1 ohm of resistance between the low reference circuit terminal C and ground.
- Install a 3-amp fused jumper wire between the signal circuit terminal A and the low reference circuit terminal C. Verify the scan tool Engine Oil Level Switch parameter is OK.
- If all circuits test normal, test or replace the engine oil level sensor.
| ⇒ | If greater than 1 ohm, test the low reference circuit for an open/high resistance. |
| ⇒ | If not OK, test the signal circuit for an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the ECM. |
Repair Instructions
Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.
| • | Engine Oil Level Sensor and/or Switch Replacement for the 4.6L engine |
| • | Engine Oil Level Sensor and/or Switch Replacement for the 4.4L engine |
| • | Control Module References for the ECM replacement, setup, and programming |
