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 B3844: Heater Core Pump Circuit

Circuit/System Description

The starter/generator control module (SGCM) monitors the heater core pump control circuit for an open wire or a over current condition.

Conditions for Running the DTC

The engine is running.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

    •  Eco-back signal (High) does not match to the LSD output signal for 320 ms.
    •  Eco-back signal (Low) does not match to the LSD output signal for 320 ms.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

Set heater core pump validity to invalid.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • LSD over current fault removed.
    • Clears 30 seconds after cycle wake up signal
    •  LSD wire open fault removed.
    •  Normal range for 3.5 seconds

Diagnostic Aids

    •  Possible over current or wire short to power line fault
    •  Possible wire open or short to ground fault

Reference Information

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Circuit Testing
    •  Connector Repairs
    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Wiring Repairs

Circuit/System Verification

  1. Ignition ON, command the heater core pump ON and OFF.
  2. Observe the operation of heater core pump.

Circuit/System Testing

  1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the heater core pump.
  2. Ignition ON, verify that a test lamp illuminates between the control circuit terminal 1 and ground.
  3. If the test lamp is always ON, test the control circuit for a short to voltage. If the circuit tests normal, replace the heater core pump.
  4. Ignition ON, verify that a test lamp illuminates between the B+ circuit terminal 2 and control circuit terminal 1.
  5. If the test lamp is always ON, test the control circuit for a short to ground. If the circuit tests normal, replace the heater core pump.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

Control Module References for heater core pump replacement, setup, and programming