Circuit Description
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is the control center of the fuel injection system. The PCM constantly looks at the information from the various sensors. The PCM controls the systems that affect the vehicle performance. The PCM also performs the diagnostic function of the system. The PCM can recognize operational problems. The PCM can alert the driver through the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL). The PCM can store a DTC or DTCs which identify the problem areas in order to aid the technician in making repairs. The PCM consists of 2 internal sides that communicate to each other. When the communication between the 2 sides is lost, the PCM cannot function properly. A DTC will set.
Conditions for Setting the DTC
The PCM cannot communicate.
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
| • | The Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illuminates. |
| • | The PCM attempts to record the operating conditions at the time this failure is detected; however, since this is an internal PCM failure, this information may or may not be reliable. The Freeze Frame and Failure Records buffers store this information. |
| • | A history DTC is stored. |
Conditions for Clearing the MIL/DTC
| • | The malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) will turn OFF after 3 consecutive ignition cycles in which the diagnostic runs without a fault. |
| • | A history DTC will clear after 40 consecutive warm up cycles without a fault. |
| • | Use a scan tool to clear the DTCs. |
Test Description
The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.
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The Powertrain OBD System Check prompts the technician to complete some basic checks and store the Freeze Frame Data and the Failure Records on the scan tool if applicable. This creates an electronic copy of the data taken when the fault occurs. Refer to this information on the scan tool later.
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Reprogram the replacement PCM. Refer to the latest Techline information for programming procedures.
Step | Action | Value(s) | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Was the Powertrain On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check performed? | -- | |||
Replace the PCM. Refer to Powertrain Control Module Replacement/Programming . Is the action complete? | -- | -- | ||
3 |
Does the scan tool indicate that this diagnostic ran and passed? | 90°-95° C | ||
4 | Check if any additional DTCs are set. Are any DTCs displayed that have not been diagnosed? | -- | Go to the Applicable DTC Table | System OK |
