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.

DTC Descriptor

DTC B1516: Battery Current Sensor Performance - GBCM

Circuit/System Description

The generator battery control module (GBCM) monitors its internal battery current sensor for charging system operations, and also for diagnostic purposes. If the values of the internal battery current sensor are out of range, DTC B1516 will set.

Conditions for Running the DTC

The engine is running.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

The duty cycle of the internal battery current sensor is less than 2 percent duty cycle or greater than 98 percent duty cycle for 4 minutes.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • The charge indicator turns ON.
    • The driver information center (DIC) displays the SERVICE CHARGSYS message.
    • The generator field control circuit duty cycle is set to 100 percent.
    • The filtered battery current is set to 0.1 amp.
    • The battery voltage parameter defaults to 13.8 V.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

The duty cycle of the internal battery current sensor is greater than 2 percent duty cycle or less than 98 percent duty cycle.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Starting and Charging Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views

Description and Operation

Charging System 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 Verification

Replace the GBCM.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

Control Module References for GBCM replacement, setup, and programming.