Circuit Description
Battery positive voltage is supplied directly to the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL). The powertrain control module (PCM) turns the MIL ON by grounding the MIL control circuit.
MIL Operation
The MIL is located on the instrument panel (I/P).
MIL Function
| • | The MIL informs the driver that a malfunction has occurred and the vehicle should be taken in for service as soon as possible. |
| • | The MIL illuminates during a bulb test and a system test. |
| • | A DTC will be stored if a MIL is requested by the diagnostic. |
MIL Illumination
| • | The MIL will illuminate with the ignition switch ON and the engine not running. |
| • | The MIL will turn OFF when the engine is started. |
| • | The MIL will remain ON if the self-diagnostic system has detected a malfunction. |
| • | The MIL may turn OFF if the malfunction is no longer present. |
| • | If the MIL is illuminated and then the engine stalls, the MIL will remain illuminated as long as the ignition switch is ON. |
| • | If the MIL is not illuminated and the engine stalls, the MIL will not illuminate until the ignition switch is cycled OFF, then ON. |
Diagnostic Aids
If the problem is intermittent, refer to Intermittent Conditions .
Test Description
The number below refers to the step number on the diagnostic table.
Step | Action | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|
Schematic Reference: Engine Controls Schematics Connector End View Reference: Powertrain Control Module Connector End Views or Engine Controls Connector End Views | |||
1 | Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle? | Go to Step 2 | Go to Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle in Vehicle DTC Information |
Is the MIL illuminated? | Go to Step 3 | Go to Step 5 | |
3 | Test the MIL control circuit 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 6 | Go to Step 4 |
4 | Replace the instrument panel cluster (IPC). Refer to Instrument Cluster Replacement in Instrument Panel, Gages, and Console. Did you complete the replacement? | Go to Step 6 | -- |
5 | Replace the PCM. Refer to Control Module References in Computer/Integrating Systems for replacement, setup, and programming. Did you complete the replacement? | Go to Step 6 | -- |
6 |
Does the vehicle operate correctly without any unwanted MIL illumination, and without any stored DTCs? | System OK | Go to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle in Vehicle DTC Information |
