GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Circuit Description

The generator battery control module (GBCM) controls the generator through the charge indicator control circuit, or L-terminal circuit. The signal is a 5 volt pulse width modulated (PWM) signal of 128 Hz. Normal duty cycle is between 5-95 percent when the engine is running.

DTC Descriptor

This diagnostic procedure supports the following DTC:

DTC B1487 Generator L-Terminal Circuit Low

Conditions for Running the DTC

    • The engine is running
    • This diagnostic shall be run every 100 ms

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The charge indicator control circuit is less than 5 percent duty cycle for 2 minutes.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • The charge indicator turns ON.
    • The driver information center (DIC) displays the BATTERY NOT CHARGING message.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • The charge indicator control circuit input is 5-95 percent duty cycle, and greater than 0 V.
    • You must cycle the ignition after clearing the DTC to turn OFF the DIC message and charge indicator.

Step

Action

Values

Yes

No

Schematic Reference: Starting and Charging Schematics

Connector End View Reference: Engine Electrical Connector End Views

1

Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle?

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Go to Step 2

Go to Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle

2

  1. Turn OFF the ignition.
  2. Disconnect the generator harness connector.
  3. Start the engine.
  4. Measure the voltage on the charge indicator control circuit.

Is the reading greater than the specified value?

2.5 volts

Go to Step 3

Go to Step 4

3

Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the generator. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs.

Did you find and correct the condition?

--

Go to Step 7

Go to Step 5

4

Test the charge indicator control circuit for a short to ground, an open or high resistance.

Did you find and correct the condition?

--

Go to Step 7

Go to Step 6

5

Replace the generator. Refer to Generator Replacement.

Did you complete the replacement?

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Go to Step 7

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6

Replace the generator battery control module. Refer to Control Module References for replacement, setup, and programming.

Did you complete the replacement?

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Go to Step 7

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7

  1. Use the scan tool in order to clear the DTC.
  2. Operate the vehicle within the Conditions for Running the DTC, as specified in the supporting text.

Does the DTC reset?

--

Go to Step 2

System OK