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.

Diagnostic Fault Information

Circuit

Short to Ground

Open/High Resistance

Short to Voltage

Signal Performance

Backup Lamp Relay B+

1

1

--

--

Backup Lamp Switch Signal

1

1

1

--

Backup Lamp Relay Control

B2545 00

1

1

--

Backup Lamps Control

1

1

1

--

Backup Lamp - Left Ground

--

1

--

--

Backup Lamp - Right Ground

--

1

--

--

Backup Lamp Switch Ground

--

1

--

--

1. Backup Lamps Malfunction

Circuit/System Description

When the transmission is placed in the REVERSE position, the transmission control module (TCM) sends a serial data message to the body control module (BCM). The message indicates that the gear selector is in the REVERSE position. The BCM applies voltage to the backup lamp relay control circuit energizing the backup lamp relay coil. With the relay coil energized, the switch contacts close allowing battery voltage to flow through the VEH BCK/UP fuse to the left and right backup lamps. The BCM also supplies voltage the to inside rearview mirror via the backup lamp relay control circuit for automatic day/night operation. Once the driver moves the gear selector out of the REVERSE position, a serial data message is sent by the TCM requesting the BCM to remove voltage from the backup lamp control circuit.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Exterior Lights Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views

Description and Operation

Exterior Lighting Systems 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 for scan tool information

Circuit/System Testing

  1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the X2 harness connector at the underhood fuse block.
  2. Ignition OFF, exterior lamps OFF, test for less that 5 ohms between the ground circuit terminal N5 and ground.
  3. If greater than the specified range, test the ground circuit for an open/high resistance.
  4. Connect the X2 harness connector at the underhood fuse block. Disconnect the X5 harness connector at the underhood fuse block.
  5. Connect a test lamp between the control circuit terminal H8 and ground.
  6. Ignition ON, command the Backup Lamps ON and OFF with a scan tool. The test lamp should turn ON and OFF when changing between the commanded states.
  7. If the test lamp is always ON, test the control circuit for a short to voltage. If the circuit tests normal, replace the BCM.
    If the test lamp is always OFF, test the control circuit for a short to ground or an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the BCM.
  8. Ignition OFF, connect the X5 harness connector at the underhood fuse block.
  9. Disconnect the harness connector at the inoperative backup lamp.
  10. Ignition OFF, exterior lamps OFF, test for less than 5 ohms between the ground circuit terminal B and ground.
  11. If greater than the specified range, test the ground circuit for an open/high resistance.
  12. Connect a test lamp between the control circuit terminal A and ground.
  13. Ignition ON, command the Backup Lamps ON and OFF with a scan tool. The test lamp should turn ON and OFF when changing between the commanded states.
  14. If the test lamp is always ON, test the control circuit for a short to voltage. If the circuit tests normal, replace the underhood fuse block.
    If the test lamp is always OFF, test the control circuit for a short to ground or an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the underhood fuse block.
  15. If all circuits test normal, test or replace the inoperative backup lamp.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    •  Tail/Turn Signal Lamp Replacement
    •  Underhood Electrical Center or Junction Block Replacement
    •  Control Module References for BCM replacement, programming, and setup