GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Circuit Description

Notice: Refer to Defective Scan Tool Notice in the Preface section.

The provision for communicating with the engine control module (ECM) is the data link connector (DLC). It is located under the instrument panel. The DLC is used to connect the scan tool. Battery power and ground is supplied for the scan tool through the DLC. The serial data circuit to the DLC allows the ECM to communicate with the scan tool. A universal asynchronous receiver transmitter (UART) serial data line is used to communicate with the other modules such as the electronic brake control module (EBCM), the supplemental inflatable restraint (SIR) system, and the instrument panel cluster.

Diagnostic Aids

Ensure that the correct application, model line, car year, etc., has been selected on the scan tool. If communication still cannot be established, try the scan tool on another vehicle to ensure that the scan tool or cables are not the cause of the condition.

An intermittent may be caused by a poor connection, rubbed through wire insulation, or a broken wire inside the insulation.

Any circuitry that is suspected of causing an intermittent complaint should be thoroughly inspected for the following conditions:

    • Backed-out terminals
    • Improper mating of terminals
    • Broken locks
    • Improperly formed or damaged terminals
    • Poor terminal-to-wiring connection
    • Physical damage to the wiring harness
    • Corrosion

Step

Action

Yes

No

1

With a test light connected to the ground, probe the data link connector (DLC) battery feed terminal 16.

Does the test light illuminate?

Go to Step 3

Go to Step 2

2

Repair an open or short to ground in the DLC battery feed circuit.

Is the repair complete?

Go to Step 3

--

3

With a test light connected to the battery, probe the DLC ground terminal 4 for Sirius, or terminal A for Fenix

Does the test light illuminate?

Go to Step 5

Go to Step 4

4

Repair an open circuit.

Is the repair complete?

Go to Step 5

--

5

  1. Turn the ignition switch to LOCK.
  2. Install the scan tool to the DLC.
  3. Turn the ignition switch to ON.

Does the scan tool power up?

Go to Step 7

Go to Step 6

6

Check for damages in the terminal of DLC and scan tool, and repair as needed.

Is the repair complete?

Go to Step 7

--

7

Using a scan tool, request engine data of the engine control module (ECM).

Does the scan tool display any data?

Go to Step 11

Go to Step 8

8

Install the scan tool on another vehicle and check for proper operation.

Does the scan tool work properly on a different vehicle?

Go to Step 10

Go to Step 9

9

The scan tool is malfunctioning. Refer to the scan tool's manual for repair.

Is the repair complete?

Go to Step 11

--

10

Repair communication circuit between the ECM and DLC.

Is the repair complete?

Go to Step 11

--

11

  1. Using a scan tool, clear the DTCs.
  2. Attempt to start the engine.

Does the engine start and continue to run?

Go to Step 12

Go to Step 1

12

  1. Allow the engine to idle until normal operation temperature reached.
  2. Check if any DTCs are set.

Are any DTCs displayed that have not been diagnosed?

Go to applicable DTC table

System OK