GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Diagnostic Instructions

    • Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
    • Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
    •  Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

Circuit/System Description

Ignition 1 voltage is supplied to the ignition coil. The engine control module (ECM) provides a ground for the ignition coil (IC) control circuits. When the ECM removes the ground path of the ignition primary coil, the magnetic field produced by the coil collapses. The collapsing magnetic field produces a voltage in the secondary coil which ignites the spark plugs. The sequencing and timing are controlled by the ECM. The ignition coil consist of the following circuits:

    • The ignition 1 voltage
    • The IC 1 control
    • The IC 2 control
    • The IC 3 control

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Engine Controls Schematics

Description and Operation

Electronic Ignition (EI) System Description

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Circuit Testing
    •  Connector Repairs
    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Wiring Repairs

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References for scan tool information

Circuit/System Testing

    Important: Do not perform this diagnostic procedure if you were not sent here from a misfire DTC, or the Engine Cranks but Does Not Run diagnostic.

  1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the ignition coil.
  2. Ignition OFF, test for less than 2 ohms of resistance between the ignition 1 voltage circuit terminal 1 and the fuse.
  3. If greater than the specified range, repair the ignition 1 voltage circuit for high resistance.
  4. Ignition ON, test for battery voltage between the ignition 1 voltage circuit terminal 1 and ground.
  5. If less than B+, repair the ignition 1 voltage circuit for a short to ground or an open. If the circuit tests normal and the ignition 1 voltage circuit fuse is open, test all components connected to the ignition 1 voltage circuit and replace as necessary.
  6. If all circuits test normal, test or replace the ignition coil.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

Ignition Coil Replacement