The approved procedure for diagnosing all powertrain control system faults is included in the Strategy Based Diagnostic Flow . The preliminary checks and Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check must be performed to successfully diagnose and repair the powertrain systems.
To read and clear diagnostic trouble codes, use a scan tool.
Important: Use a scan tool to clear diagnostic trouble codes from the PCM memory.
Since the PCM can have a failure which may affect only one circuit, following the approved diagnostic procedures will determine which circuit has a problem and where it is. If a diagnostic table indicates that the PCM connections or PCM is the cause of a problem and the PCM is replaced, but does not correct the problem, one of the following conditions may exist:
| • | There is a problem with the PCM terminal connections. The diagnostic table will indicate that the PCM connections or PCM is the problem. The terminals may have to be removed from the PCM connector in order to check them properly. |
| • | The EEPROM program is not correct for the application. |
| • | Incorrect components may cause a malfunction and may or may not set a DTC. |
| • | The problem is intermittent. This means that the problem is not present at the time the system is being checked. In this case, refer to the Symptoms portion of the manual and make a careful visual and physical inspection of all suspected components and wiring associated with the affected system. |
| • | Shorted solenoid, relay coil, or harness. Solenoids and relays are turned ON and OFF by the PCM using internal electronic switches called drivers. Each driver is part of a group of seven called output driver modules. A shorted solenoid, relay coil, or harness will not damage the PCM but will cause the solenoid or relay to be inoperative. |
