GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Strategy Based Diagnostics

Review the system operations in order to familiarize yourself with the system functions. Refer to Driveline Disassembled View, Propeller Shaft General Description, Transfer Case General Description, Differential Case General Description, and Differential Carrier Assembly Description in this service manual. All diagnosis on a vehicle should follow a logical process. Strategy based diagnostics is a uniform approach for repairing all systems. The diagnostic flow may always be used in order to resolve a system problem. The diagnostic flow is the place to start when repairs are necessary. For a detailed explanation, refer to Strategy Based Diagnostics in the General Information section of this service manual.

Visual/Physical Inspection

    • Inspect for aftermarket devices which could affect the operation of the vehicle. Refer to Checking Aftermarket Accessories procedure in the Body Electrical service manual.
    • Inspect the easily accessible or visible system components for obvious damage or conditions which could cause the symptom.
    • Verify the exact operating conditions under which the concern exists. Note factors such as speed, road conditions, ambient temperature, and other specifics.
    • Compare the driving characteristics or sounds, if applicable, to a known good vehicle and make sure you are not trying to correct a normal condition.

Intermittent

Test the vehicle under the same conditions that the customer reported in order to verify the system is operating properly.

Symptom List

Refer to a symptom diagnostic procedure from the following list in order to diagnose the symptom:

    • Roughness or Vibration
    • Ping, Snap, or Click Noise
    • Knock or Clunk Noise
    • Scraping Noise
    • Squeak Noise
    • Shudder on Acceleration at Low Speed