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

The instrument panel cluster (IPC) illuminates the engine coolant temperature indicator when the engine control module (ECM) determines that the coolant temperature is more than 128°C (262°F). The IPC receives a discrete input from the ECM requesting illumination.

The IPC illuminates the engine coolant temperature indicator during the display test at the start of each ignition cycle.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

    •  Instrument Cluster Schematics
    •  Engine Cooling Schematics

Connector End View Reference

    •  Displays and Gages Connector End Views
    •  Cooling System Connector End Views

Description and Operation

    •  Instrument Cluster Description and Operation
    •  Cooling System Description and Operation

Electrical Information Reference

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

Scan Tool Reference

    •  Scan Tool Output Controls
    •  Scan Tool Data List
    •  Scan Tool Data Definitions

Circuit/System Testing

Ignition ON, perform the IPC lamp test with the scan tool. The engine coolant temperature indicator should turn on when commanded.

If the engine coolant temperature indicator does not turn on when commanded, replace the IPC.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

Control Module References for the IPC replacement, setup, and programming