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 electronic brake control module (EBCM) activates the traction control (TC) modulator valve by supplying 12 volts to the TC modulator valve high reference circuit and supplying ground to the TC modulator valve low reference circuit. When the TC modulator valve energized an internal valve opens and air pressure is applied to the drive axle brake pressure modulator valve (BPMV).

Conditions for Running the Diagnostic Fault

    • The ignition is ON.
    • The EBCM is calibrated for traction control.

Conditions for Setting the Diagnostic Fault

The EBCM detects an open or shorted TC modulator or circuitry.

Action Taken When the Diagnostic Fault Sets

    •  The TC system is disabled.
    • The Traction OFF indicator on turns ON.
    • Driver is unable to re-enable the TC system.
    • The Bendix Remote Diagnostic Unit (RDU), illuminates the TRC and MOD LEDs.

Conditions for Clearing the Diagnostic Fault

    • Repair the condition responsible for illuminating the status lamps.
    • Perform the Status Lamp Resetting procedure. Refer to Status Lamp Resetting.

Diagnostic Aids

Important:  Upon any electronic brake control module (EBCM), or TC modulator valve replacement perform the Bendix RDU magnet reset procedure. Refer to Status Lamp Resetting.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Air Antilock Brake System Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views

Description and Operation

Air ABS Description and Operation

Electrical Information Reference

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

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References

Circuit/System Verification

Ignition ON, observe the Bendix Remote Diagnostic Unit (RDU). The LEDs on the RDU should indicate a current traction control modulator fault.

Circuit/System Testing

  1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the (TC) traction control valve.
  2. Ignition OFF, test for value range within 0.5-12 ohm between the traction control (TC) modulator high circuit terminal A and low circuit terminal B.
  3. If not within the specified range, test the signal circuits for an open/high resistance, short to ground, short to voltage, or shorted together. If the circuits test normal, replace the traction control (TC) control valve.
    If within the specified range, test or replace the electronic brake control module (EBCM).
  4. If all circuits test normal, test or replace the (TC) control valve..

Component Testing

  1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the (TC) traction control valve.
  2. Ignition OFF, test for value range within 0.5-12 ohm between the traction control (TC) modulator high circuit terminal A and low circuit terminal B.
  3. If within the specified range, test or replace the electronic brake control module (EBCM).
  4. Test for infinite resistance between each terminal and the sensor housing/case.
  5. If less than the specified value, replace the (TC) traction control valve.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    •  Control Module References for EBCM replacement, setup, and programming.
    •  Rear Air Brake Relay Valve Replacement