Circuit Description
The EBCM and the PCM simultaneously control the traction control. The PCM reduces the amount of torque supplied to the drive wheels by retarding spark timing and selectively turning off fuel injectors. The EBCM actively applies the brakes to the front wheels in order to reduce torque.
The EBCM sends a requested torque message via a pulse width modulated (PWM) signal to the PCM. The duty cycle of the signal is used to determine how much engine torque the EBCM is requesting the PCM to deliver. Normal values are between 10 and 90 percent duty cycle. The signal should be at 90 percent when traction control is not active and at lower values during traction control activations. The PCM supplies a pull up voltage of 5 volts that the EBCM switches to ground to create the signal.
The PCM sends a delivered torque message via a pulse width modulated (PWM) signal to the EBCM. The duty cycle of the signal is used to determine how much engine torque the PCM is delivering. Normal values are between 10 and 90 percent duty cycle. The signal should be at low values (around 10 percent) at idle and higher values under driving conditions. The EBCM supplies a pull up voltage of 12 volts that the PCM switches to ground to create the signal.
When certain PCM DTCs are set, the PCM will not be able to perform the torque reduction portion of traction control. A serial data message is sent to the EBCM indicating that traction control is not allowed.
DTC Descriptor
This diagnostic procedure supports the following DTC:
DTC C1278 TCS Temporarily Inhibited by PCM
Conditions for Running the DTC
The ignition is ON.
Conditions for Setting the DTC
The PCM diagnoses a condition preventing the engine control portion of the traction control function and sends a serial data message to the EBCM indicating that torque reduction is not allowed. The PCM will typically set a DTC and the EBCM will set this DTC.
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
| • | The EBCM disables the TCS for the duration of the ignition cycle. |
| • | The Traction Off indicator turns ON. |
| • | The message center displays the Service Traction System message. |
| • | The ABS remains functional. |
Conditions for Clearing the DTC
| • | The condition for the DTC is no longer present and the DTC is cleared with a scan tool. |
| • | The electronic brake control module (EBCM) automatically clears the history DTC when a current DTC is not detected in 100 consecutive drive cycles. |
Diagnostic Aids
This DTC is for information only. As an aid to the technician, this DTC indicates that there are no problems in the ABS/TCS system.
Step | Action | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|
Schematic Reference: Antilock Brake System Schematics | |||
1 | Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle? | -- | Go to Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle in Vehicle DTC Information |
