Diagnostic Instructions
Circuit/System Description
There are 3 dual-tower ignition coils that are part of the ignition control module (ICM). The ICM contains coil driver circuits that command the coils to operate. The ICM has the following circuits:
• | An ignition voltage circuit |
• | 3 ignition coil control circuits |
• | A low reference circuit |
The engine control module (ECM) controls each dual-tower ignition coil by transmitting timing pulses on the ignition coil control circuit to the ICM for the proper coil to enable a spark event.
Diagnostic Aids
Inspect the spark plug wires for proper orientation.
Reference Information
Schematic Reference
Engine Controls Schematics
Connector End View Reference
Component Connector End Views
Description and Operation
Electronic Ignition (EI) System Description
Electrical Information Reference
Scan Tool Reference
Control Module References for scan tool information
Special Tools Required
J 26792 Spark Tester
Circuit/System Testing
Important: The engine may start and run until all fuel is removed from the fuel line.
- With the ignition OFF, remove the fuel pump relay.
- Crank the engine and test for a strong spark on each cylinder spark plug wire using the
J 26792 . Ground the companion cylinder spark plug wire of each cylinder when it is tested.
⇒ | If a strong bright blue spark is present on all 6 of the cylinders, remove and inspect all of the spark plugs for proper torque, proper gap, wear, damage, and fouling. Refer to
Spark Plug Wire Inspection. |
⇒ | If there
is no spark on any of the cylinders, test the ignition voltage circuit of the ICM for an open/high resistance or short to ground, or test the ground circuit of the ICM for an open/high resistance, or a faulty ICM. |
⇒ | The wire circuit resistance should
measure less than 3 ohms. |
⇒ | If spark is present on one or more of the cylinders, inspect and test the spark plug wires for arcing, cuts, rubbing on other components, and proper resistance, or a faulty ICM. |
⇒ | If all tests are normal, then the system is operating correctly. |
Component Testing
• | With positive polarity to the low reference terminal, measure for 9,000-11,000 ohms at 20-23°C (68-74°F) room temperature between each of the ignition coil control terminals and the low reference terminal of the ICM. |
⇒ | If the resistance is not within the specified range, replace the ICM. |
• | Measure for 7,000-15,000 ohms at 20-23°C (68-74°F) room temperature between each pair of coil towers on the ICM. |
⇒ | If the resistance is not within the specified range, replace the ICM. |
Repair Instructions
Perform the
Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.