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 Descriptors

DTC B1517: Battery Voltage

Circuit/System Description

TheIPC monitors the system voltage to ensure that the voltage stays within the proper range. Damage to components and incorrect data may occur when the voltage is out of range.

Conditions for Running the DTC

This DTC shall run only if the IPC has power, ground, and the ignition is not in START mode.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

    • The battery voltage falls below 8 volts for 8 seconds.
    • The battery voltage is greater 18 volts for 8 seconds.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

The current DTC will clear when battery voltage is between 8-18 volts for 2 seconds.

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

Engine running, accessories OFF, measure and record the battery voltage. The voltage should be between 12.6 and 15.0 volts.

If not within the specified range, refer to Charging System Test.

Circuit/System Testing

  1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connectors at the IPC.
  2. Test for less than 5 Ω between the ground circuit terminals listed below and ground.
  3. • Terminal A16
    • Terminal B15
    • Terminal B16
    If greater than the specified range, test the ground circuit for an open/high resistance.
  4. Verify that a test lamp illuminates between the B+ circuit terminals listed below and ground.
  5. • Terminal A23
    • Terminal A24
    If the test lamp does not illuminate, test the B+ circuit for a short to ground or an open/high resistance.
  6. If all circuits test normal, replace the IPC.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

Control Module References for IPC replacement, setup, and programming