GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Circuit Description

The 4WD indicator lamp is located in the instrument cluster. Ignition 1 voltage is supplied to the instrument panel cluster (IPC) when the ignition switch is in the START or RUN position. When the vehicle is in START or RUN and the powertrain control module (PCM) receives the axle switch signal from the front axle actuator, the PCM sends a class 2 signal to the instrument cluster turning on the 4WD indicator. The 4WD indicator will stay on as long as the axle switch signal input is present.

Test Description

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

  1. Tests for an intermittent condition.

  2. Determines whether the failure is the result of a faulty front axle circuit or the instrument cluster.

  3. Tests for proper signal voltage to the PCM.

  4. Tests for proper ignition 1 voltage to the instrument cluster.

Step

Action

Value(s)

Yes

No

Schematic Reference: Transfer Case Control Schematics

1

Did you perform a Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle?

--

Go to Step 2

Go to Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle

2

Verify the fault is present. Does the system operate normally?

--

Go to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections

Go to Step 3

3

  1. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
  2. Install a scan tool.
  3. Use the scan tool to command the 4WD indicator ON.

Does the 4WD indicator turn ON?

--

Go to Step 4

Go to Step 5

4

  1. Ensure the 4WD control lever is in the 4WD position.
  2. Test the axle switch signal circuit for proper voltage at the PCM.

Does the voltage measure within the specified value?

9-14 V

Go to Step 8

Go to Step 9

5

Test the ignition 1 voltage circuit for a proper voltage at the instrument cluster.

Does the voltage measure within the specified value?

9-14 V

Go to Step 6

Go to Step 7

6

Replace the instrument panel cluster. Refer to Instrument Cluster Replacement .

Did you complete the replacement?

--

Go to Step 10

--

7

Repair an open or high resistance in the ignition 1 voltage circuit. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs .

Did you complete the repair?

--

Go to Step 10

--

8

Replace the PCM. Refer to Control Module References for replacement, setup, and programming.

Did you complete the replacement?

--

Go to Step 10

--

9

Inspect the axle switch signal circuit for an open or short to ground. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs . If OK, replace the front axle actuator. Refer to Electric Motor Actuator Replacement .

Did you complete the replacement?

--

Go to Step 10

--

10

Operate the vehicle in order to determine if the symptom has been corrected.

Is the symptom still present?

--

System OK

Go to Step 2