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.

DTC Descriptor

DTC 049: System Voltage High

Circuit Description

The engine control module (ECM) uses the ignition 1 voltage circuit to monitor system voltage. Voltage that is excessively high can cause damage to components and incorrect input readings.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The ECM detects a system voltage above 16 volts for more than 5 minutes.

Circuit/System Verification

Engine idling, raise the engine speed to more than 1,500 RPM. Observe the battery voltage parameter with a scan tool. The voltage should be less than 16 volts.

Circuit/System Testing

  1. Measure the voltage across the negative terminal and the positive terminal of the battery with a DMM.
  2. Verify that the battery voltage is within 0.5 volt of the battery voltage parameter.
  3. If the voltage is more then the specified range, repair the generator circuit. If circuit/connections test normal, replace the generator.
  4. If all circuits/connections test normal, replace the ECM.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    •  Generator Replacement
    •  Control Module References for engine control module replacement, setup, and programming.