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 P1AF4: Drive Motor 1 Control Module Hybrid Battery Voltage Isolation Sensor Circuit Low Voltage

DTC P1AF5: Drive Motor 1 Control Module Hybrid Battery Voltage Isolation Sensor Circuit High Voltage

DTC P1AF6: Drive Motor 2 Control Module Hybrid Battery Voltage Isolation Sensor Circuit Low Voltage

DTC P1AF7: Drive Motor 2 Control Module Hybrid Battery Voltage Isolation Sensor Circuit High Voltage

Circuit/System Description

The drive motor generator power inverter control module (PIM) contains two motor control modules (MCMs). Each MCM measures hybrid battery high voltage (HV) with several internal sensors. The MCMs test for loss of isolation (LOI) between either the HV positive circuit or HV negative circuit and vehicle chassis. The MCMs test for isolation when the HV contactor relays are closed. The battery energy control module (BECM) only tests the hybrid battery assembly for HV loss of isolation when the HV contactor relays are open.

MCM LOI is detected through the use of two high-impedance resistors and voltage measuring circuitry. The two resistors are connected in series between the HV positive and HV negative circuits. The center connection of the two resistors is also connected to vehicle chassis. The MCM then measures the voltage drop across one of the resistors. Without a loss of isolation, the MCM should measure about half of the high voltage potential. This is referred to as mid-pack voltage. The Mid-pack voltage value is then doubled by the software and displayed on a scan tool as Motor 1 Isolation Voltage or Motor 2 Isolation Voltage. When a loss of isolation is present, the motor isolation voltage display will indicate voltage that is more or less than actual hybrid battery high voltage. The MCM monitors the LOI voltage measuring circuitry for correct operation.

Conditions for Running the DTC

    • The control module runs the program to detect an internal fault when the key is ON.
    • Ignition voltage is 8-18 volts.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

P1AF4 and P1AF6

The motor control module (MCM) detects isolation sensor voltage less than 0V.

P1AF5 and P1AF7

The MCM detects isolation sensor voltage greater than 564V.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • DTCs P1AF4, P1AF5, P1AF6 and P1AF7 are Type B DTCs.
    • The hybrid powertrain control module (HPCM) commands the battery energy control module (BECM) to open the high voltage contactor relays.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

DTCs P1AF4, P1AF5, P1AF6 and P1AF7 are Type B DTCs.

Reference Information

DTC Type Reference

Powertrain Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Type Definitions

Circuit/System Verification

    Note: DTC P1AE7 must test and pass before performing this diagnostic procedure.

  1. Inspect for DTC P1AE7.
  2. If the DTC has set, a loss of isolation condition within the hybrid battery has caused this DTC to set. Refer to DTC P1AE6 or P1AE7.
  3. Clear the DTC information.
  4. Turn the ignition OFF for 1 minute.
  5. Turn the ignition ON.
  6. Retest for DTCs P1AF4, P1AF5, P1AF6 and P1AF7.

Circuit/System Testing

    Note: DTC P1AE7 must test and pass before performing this diagnostic procedure.

  1. Inspect for DTC P1AE7.
  2. If the DTC has set, a loss of isolation condition within the hybrid battery has caused this DTC to set. Refer to DTC P1AE6 or P1AE7.
  3. Ignition ON, retest for DTCs P1AF4, P1AF5, P1AF6 and P1AF7.
  4. If the DTC resets, program the PIM with the latest software version and recheck for DTCs. If the DTC resets after programming or if the PIM already contains the latest software version, replace the PIM.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

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