GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Circuit Description

The PCM uses an Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM) to house the program information and the calibrations required for the engine, the transmission, and the powertrain diagnostics operation. The PCM uses a value called a checksum for error detection of the software. The checksum is a value that is equal to all the numbers in the software added together. The PCM adds all the values in the software. If that value does not equal the checksum value, a checksum error is indicated.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The PCM detects more than 3 incorrect checksums.

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.

  1. 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.

  2. Reprogram the replacement PCM. Refer to the latest Techline information for programming procedures.

Step

Action

Value(s)

Yes

No

1

Was the Powertrain On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check performed?

--

Go to Step 2

Go to Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check

2

Replace the PCM. Refer to Powertrain Control Module Replacement/Programming .

Is the action complete?

--

Go to Step 3

--

3

  1. Using the scan tool, clear the DTCs.
  2. Start the Engine.
  3. Allow the engine to idle until the engine reaches the specified temperature.
  4. Operate the vehicle within the conditions for setting this DTC as specified in the supporting text.

Does the scan tool indicate that this diagnostic ran and passed?

90°-95° C

Go to Step 4

Go to Step 2

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