Circuit Description
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) is the control center of the fuel injection system. The PCM constantly looks at the information from the various sensors. The PCM controls the systems that affect vehicle performance. The PCM also performs the diagnostic function of the system. The PCM can recognize operational problems. The PCM can alert the driver through the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL). The PCM can store DTCs which identify the problem areas in order to aid the technician in making repairs. The PCM uses an Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM) to house the program information and the calibrations required for the engine, the transmission, and the powertrain diagnostics operation. Reprogramming the PCM can update the program of the EEPROM.
Conditions for Setting the DTC
The PCM is improperly programmed.
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
| • | The Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illuminates. |
| • | The PCM attempts to record the operating conditions at the time this failure is detected; however, since this is an internal PCM failure, this information may or may not be reliable. The Freeze Frame and Failure Records buffers store this information. |
| • | A history DTC is stored. |
Conditions for Clearing the MIL/DTC
| • | A history DTC will clear after 40 consecutive warm up cycles without a fault. |
| • | A scan tool can clear the MIL/DTCs. |
Test Description
Number(s) below refer to the step number(s) on the Diagnostic Table.
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The Powertrain OBD System Check prompts the technician to complete some basic checks and store the freeze frame and failure records data on the scan tool if applicable. This creates an electronic copy of the data taken when the malfunction occurred. The information is then stored on the scan tool for later reference.
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Refer to the latest Techline information for programming procedures.
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Replacement PCMs must be reprogrammed and the crankshaft position system variation procedure must be performed. Refer to the latest Techline information for PCM reprogramming and also refer to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) for the Crankshaft Position System Variation Procedure.
Step | Action | Value(s) | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Was the Powertrain On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check performed? | -- | Go to | ||
2 | Was the PCM just replaced? | -- | ||
Does the DTC reset? | -- | |||
Replace the PCM. Is the action complete? | -- | -- | ||
5 |
Does the scan tool indicate that this diagnostic has ran and passed? | -- | ||
6 | Check if any additional DTCs are set. Are any DTCs displayed that have not been diagnosed? | Go to applicable DTC table | System OK |
