GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Step

Action

Yes

No

1

Check the coolant level.

Is the coolant level correct?

Go to Step 3

Go to Step 2

2

Add coolant as needed.

Is the heater operating?

System OK

Go to Step 3

3

  1. Turn ON the ignition.
  2. Observe the temperature indication screen of the controller.

Does the digit flash?

Go to Step 4

Go to Step 5

4

Run a self diagnosis circuit check.

Does the display indicate a defect code?

Go to the specific DTC table

Go to Step 7

5

Observe the blower motor operation.

Is the blower motor functioning at all?

Go to Step 6

Go to Blower Motor Inoperative

6

Use the blower push switch to cycle the blower through its different speeds.

Does the motor function at different speeds?

Go to Step 7

Go to DTC 6

7

  1. Run the blower and operate the MODE push switch manually.
  2. Inspect for airflow out the various outlets.

Does the air flow from the different outlets as it should?

Go to Step 9

Go to Step 8

8

  1. Remove the heater outlet and check for obstructions.
  2. Remove any obstructions found.

Is the heater operating?

System OK

Go to Step 9

9

Observe the air mix door motor while changing the temperature setting from LO to HI and then from HI to LO.

Is the air mix door actuator functioning properly?

Go to Step 10

Go to DTC 4

10

Inspect the coolant hoses for leaks or kinks.

Are the coolant hoses in good condition?

Go to Step 12

Go to Step 11

11

Repair any problem with the coolant hoses.

Is the heater operating?

System OK

Go to Step 12

12

Inspect the coolant reservoir cap.

Is the coolant tank cap in good condition?

Go to Step 14

Go to Step 13

13

Repair or replace the coolant reservoir cap, as needed.

Is the heater operating?

System OK

Go to Step 14

14

  1. Turn the A/C switch to OFF.
  2. Set the temperature control to HI.
  3. Set the blower motor speed to full high, all segments illuminated on the display.
  4. Remove the coolant reservoir cap.
  5. Start the vehicle and run the engine at idles.
  6. Watch for the flow of the coolant when the thermostat opens.

Does the coolant flow?

Go to Step 16

Go to Step 15

15

  1. Inspect for the following
  2. • A faulty thermostat
    • A failed coolant pump impeller
    • A restriction in the cooling system
  3. Make repairs, as needed.

Did you complete the repair?

System OK

--

16

Inspect the temperature of the heater inlet and outlet hoses by feel.

Is the heater inlet hose hot and the outlet hose warm?

Go to Step 18

Go to Step 17

17

Back flush or replace the heater core.

Did you complete the repair?

System OK

--

18

Inspect the vehicle for cold air leaks at the dash, heater cases, and vents.

Are any leaks found?

Go to Step 19

Go to Step 20

19

Repair any cold air leaks.

Did you complete the repair?

System OK

--

20

Inspect the coolant temperature sensor using the tests in DTC 3.

Is there a problem indicated in the sensor, the sensor wiring or the controller?

Go to Step 21

Go to Step 22

21

Repair or replace the sensor, the wiring , or the controller as required.

Did you complete the repair?

System OK

--

22

Inspect the in-car sensor using the test in DTC 1.

Is there a problem indicated in the sensor, the sensor wiring, or the controller?

Go to Step 23

Go to Step 24

23

Repair or replace the sensor, the wiring, or the controller as required.

Did you complete the repair?

System OK

--

24

Inspect the ambient air temperature sensor using the test in DTC 2.

Is there a problem indicated in the sensor, the sensor wiring, or the controller?

Go to Step 25

Go to Step 26

25

Repair or replace the sensor, the wiring, or the controller as required.

Did you complete the repair?

System OK

--

26

Check the sun sensor using the test in DTC 5.

Is there a problem indicated in the sensor, the sensor wiring, or the controller?

Go to Step 27

Go to Step 28

27

Repair or replace the sensor, the wiring, or the controller as required.

Did you complete the repair?

System OK

--

28

Replace the full automatic temperature control (FATC) controller.

Did you complete the repair?

System OK

--