GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Step

Action

Yes

No

Schematic Reference: Engine Cooling Schematics

Connector End View Reference: Cooling System Connector End Views

DEFINITION: The low coolant indicator is always on when the key is in the ON position.

1

Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle?

Go to Step 2

Go to Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle in Vehicle DTC Information

2

  1. Turn the ignition ON, with the engine OFF.
  2. With a scan tool command the instrument cluster indicators ON and OFF.

Does the low coolant indicator lamp turn ON and OFF with each command?

Go to Step 3

Go to Step 5

3

Disconnect the coolant level switch connector.

Does the low coolant indicator turn OFF?

Go to Step 6

Go to Step 4

4

Test the signal circuit of the coolant level switch for a short to ground. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Did you find and correct the condition?

Go to Step 11

Go to Step 7

5

Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the instrument panel cluster (IPC). Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Did you find and correct the condition?

Go to Step 11

Go to Step 8

6

Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the coolant level switch. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Did you find and correct the condition?

Go to Step 11

Go to Step 9

7

Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the body control module (BCM). Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Did you find and correct the condition?

Go to Step 11

Go to Step 10

8

Replace the IPC. Refer to Instrument Cluster Replacement in Instrument Panel, Gages and Console.

Did you complete the repair?

Go to Step 11

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9

Replace the coolant level switch. Refer to Radiator Surge Tank Replacement .

Did you complete the replacement?

Go to Step 11

--

10

Replace the BCM. Refer to Control Module References in Computer/Integrating Systems for replacement, setup, and programming.

Did you complete the replacement?

Go to Step 11

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11

Operate the system in order to verify the repair.

Did you correct the condition?

System OK

Go to Step 2