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 C0550: ECU Malfunction

Circuit/System Description

At each power-up, the transfer case shift control module runs a self-test on the following:

    • EEPROM Checksum
    • ROM Checksum
    • RAM Checksum
    • RAM Malfunction

Conditions for Running the DTC

    • The ignition is ON.
    • System voltage is 9-18 volts.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

    • Critical operational parameters stored in EEPROM have failed Checksum test indicating invalid data.
    • Masked ROM code has failed Checksum test indicating that masked ROM data is no longer valid.
    • ROM code has failed Checksum test indicating that ROM data is no longer valid.
    • One or more ROM locations have failed operational test indicating that some portions of RAM are not functional.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • The SERVICE AWD indicator remains illuminated for the remainder of the current ignition cycle.
    • The transfer case control switch does not display the current position LED while DTC C0550 is current.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • Replace the transfer case shift control module.
    • Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle .

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Transfer Case Control Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views

Description and Operation

Transfer Case 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.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.