GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Circuit Description

The powertrain control module (PCM) uses the generator turn on signal circuit to control the load of the generator on the engine. A high side driver in the PCM applies a voltage to the voltage regulator. This signals the voltage regulator to turn the field circuit ON and OFF. When the PCM turns ON the high side driver, the voltage regulator turns ON the field circuit. When the PCM turns OFF the high side driver, the voltage regulator turns OFF the field circuit.

The PCM monitors the state of the generator turn on signal circuit. The PCM should detect a low generator turn on signal circuit voltage when the key is ON and the engine is OFF, or when the charging system malfunctions. With the engine running, the PCM should detect a high generator turn on signal circuit. The PCM performs key ON and RUN tests to determine the status of the generator turn on signal circuit. During the key ON test, if the PCM detects a high generator turn on signal circuit voltage, the DTC will set. The DTC will also set if, during the RUN test, the PCM detects a low generator turn on signal circuit. When the DTC sets, the PCM will send a class 2 serial data message to the instrument panel cluster (IPC) to illuminate the charge indicator.

DTC Descriptor

This diagnostic procedure supports the following DTC:

DTC P1637 Generator L-Terminal Circuit

Conditions for Running the DTC

    • The ignition is ON.
    • The engine speed is more than 1,000 RPM.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

    • The PCM detects the GEN L-Terminal active with the ignition ON.
    • The PCM detects the GEN L-Terminal inactive with the engine operating.
    • The above conditions are present for 6 seconds.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • The PCM will record the operating conditions presents when the DTC set as Failure Records data only.
    • The IPC displays a message.
    • The malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) will not illuminate.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • The Conditions for Setting the DTC are no longer present.
    • A history DTC will clear after 40 malfunction free ignition cycles.
    • The PCM receives the clear code command from the scan tool.

Step

Action

Value

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 in Vehicle DTC Information

2

  1. Install a scan tool.
  2. Start the engine.
  3. With a scan tool, monitor the DTC information for DTC P1637 in Engine Controls.

Does the scan tool indicate that DTC P1637 has passed?

--

Go to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections in Wiring Systems

Go to Step 3

3

  1. Turn OFF the ignition.
  2. Disconnect the generator harness connector.
  3. Start the engine and let idle.
  4. Measure the voltage between the generator turn on signal circuit and ground.

Does the voltage measure near the specified value?

10 V

Go to Step 5

Go to Step 4

4

Test the generator turn on signal circuit for a short or open. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Did you find and correct the condition?

--

Go to Step 8

Go to Step 6

5

Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the generator. Refer to Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Did you find and correct the condition?

--

Go to Step 8

Go to Charging System Test

6

Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the powertrain control module (PCM). Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems.

Did you find and correct the condition?

--

Go to Step 8

Go to Step 7

7

Replace the PCM/engine control module (ECM). Refer to Control Module References in Computer/Integrating Systems for replacement, setup, and programming.

Is action complete?

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Go to Step 8

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8

  1. Use the scan tool in order to clear the DTCs .
  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