GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Circuit Description

The Power Seats Systems Diagnostic System Check is an organized approach used in order to identify problems associated with the module. Use this diagnostic system check as the starting point for any memory seats module (MSM) complaint. This diagnostic system check will direct you to the next logical step in diagnosing the complaint. The MSM is a very reliable component. The MSM is not the likely cause of the malfunction. Most system complaints are linked to faulty wiring, faulty connectors, and occasionally to faulty components. Understanding the computer system and using the tables correctly will reduce diagnostic time and prevent unnecessary parts replacement.

Diagnostic Aids

    • The following conditions may result in an intermittent operation of the memory seats module (MSM) with no DTC stored:
       - Any condition that results in the interruption of power to the MSM is present.
       - Battery or ignition voltage is not within 9.0-16.0 V.
       - A loose or damaged ground is present.
       - An open or shorted serial data line is present.
    • An intermittent failure in the electronic system may be very difficult to detect and to accurately diagnose. The MSM tests for different malfunctions under different vehicle conditions. For this reason, a thorough test drive is often needed in order to repeat a malfunction. If the system malfunction is not repeated during the test drive, a good description of the complaint may be very useful in locating an intermittent malfunction. Faulty electrical connections or wiring causes most intermittent problems. When an intermittent condition is suspected, inspect the suspected circuits for the following conditions:
       - Poor mating of connector halves or backed out terminals
       - Improperly formed or damaged terminals
       - Wire chafing
       - Poor wire to terminal connections
       - Dirty or corroded terminals
       - Damage to connector bodies
    • Use the J 35616 whenever a diagnostic procedure requests probing or checking a terminal. Using this adapter ensures that no damage to the terminal will occur. Using this adapter will provide an idea of whether contact tension is sufficient.
    • If the DTC is a history DTC, the problem may be intermittent. Perform the tests shown while moving related wiring and connectors. This action often causes the malfunction to occur. Perform a thorough inspection of all related wiring and connectors pertaining to the history DTC stored.
    • Exit all of the scan tool tests before cycling the ignition switch from the OFF position to the ON position unless the scan tool instructions direct otherwise. Follow the operating instructions in the scan tool operator's manual. Failure to follow these instruction may result in the following conditions:
       - DTCs may set.
       - Vehicle system malfunctions may occur.
       - False DTCs may set.
       - Scan tool malfunctions may occur.

Test Description

The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table:

  1. This step determines if communication may be established with the memory seat module (MSM).

  2. This step tests for stored MSM DTCs.

  3. This step determines if communication may be established with other modules connected to the Class  2 serial data line.

  4. This step tests for any open MSM power fuses.

  5. This step tests the MSM power circuit. If the test light does not turn ON, an open is present in the MSM power circuit.

  6. This step tests the MSM ground circuit. If the test light does not turn ON, an open is present in the MSM power circuit.

Step

Action

Value(s)

Yes

No

1

  1. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position.
  2. Connect a scan tool to the data link connector (DLC).
  3. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position.
  4. Attempt to establish communication with the MSM.

Does the scan tool communicate with the MSM?

--

Go to Step 2

Go to Step 3

2

Select display MSM DTC function with the scan tool.

Are any DTCs stored?

--

Go to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List/Type

Go to Memory Seats System Check

3

Attempt to establish communications with the other modules connected to the same serial data line (PCM, BCM, etc.).

Does the scan tool communicate with the other modules?

--

Go to Step 4

Go to Scan Tool Does Not Communicate with Class 2 Data Line in Data Link Communications

4

With a test light connected to ground, probe the PWR SEATS circuit breaker.

Did the test lamp light?

--

Go to Step 5

Go to Step 7

5

  1. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position.
  2. Disconnect the MSM connectors.
  3. Turn the ignition switch to the ON position.
  4. With a test light connected to ground, probe all of the MSM power circuits.

Did the test lamp light for all circuits?

--

Go to Step 6

Go to Step 9

6

With a test light connected to battery positive voltage (B+), probe all MSM ground circuits.

Did the test lamp light for all circuits?

--

Go to Step 8

Go to Step 10

7

Repair the open or short to ground in the MSM battery feed circuit. Refer to Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Is the repair complete?

--

Go to Step 11

--

8

Replace the MSM.

Is the repair complete?

--

Go to Step 11

--

9

Locate and repair the open in the MSM power circuit. Refer to Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Is the repair complete?

--

Go to Step 11

--

10

Locate and repair the open in the MSM ground circuit. Refer to Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Is the repair complete?

--

Go to Step 11

--

11

  1. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position.
  2. Connect or install any connectors or components that were disconnected or removed.
  3. Turn the ignition switch to the OFF position.
  4. Clear all DTCs. Refer to Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Clearing .

Are all of the DTCs cleared?

--

Go to Step 1

--