Circuit/System Description
The HVAC control module monitors the ambient air temperature sensor to display ambient air temperature. The temperature sensor is a 2-wire negative temperature co-efficient thermistor. The HVAC control module applies 5 volts to an internal input resistor that is connected to the signal circuits of the ambient air temperature sensor. The HVAC control module provides the ground to the ambient air temperature sensor through the low reference circuit. The HVAC control module monitors the voltage drop across the ambient air temperature sensor and uses the input for automatic control calculations. When the ambient air temperatures are cold, the resistance of the sensor is high and the voltage signals are high. When the ambient air temperatures are hot; the resistance of the sensors is low and the voltage signals are low. The HVAC control module converts the voltage value to a temperature value of Celsius and Fahrenheit that will be displayed by the driver information center (DIC).
Inside Air Temperature Sensor
The HVAC control module supplies the inside air temperature sensor with a low reference circuit and 5-volt signal circuit. The HVAC control module determines the voltage drop across the sensor, which is proportional to temperature. As the air temperature increases, the sensor resistance decreases and the voltage signal decreases. As the air temperature decreases, the sensor resistance increases and the voltage signal increases. The inside air temperature sensor refers to the passenger compartment.
Upper and Lower Air Duct Temperature Sensors
The HVAC control module supplies the air duct temperature sensors with a low reference circuit and 5-volt signal circuit. The HVAC control module determines the voltage drop across the sensor, which is proportional to temperature. As the air temperature increases, the sensor resistance decreases and the voltage signal decreases. As the air temperature decreases, the sensor resistance increases and the voltage signal increases.
The actuators operate using 5 circuits. A 5 V reference, low reference, signal circuit and two bi-directional 0 or 12 volt control circuits. The HVAC control module supplies a low reference and 5 V reference to the potentiometer. The HVAC control module monitors the voltage drop across the potentiometer on the door position signal circuit. As the actuator door changes position the door position signal circuit voltage also changes. The two bi-directional control circuits enable the actuator to operate. Both circuits are set to 0 volts when the HVAC control module detects, from the feedback potentiometer, that the actuator is in the desired position. In order to move the actuator, the HVAC control module switches the appropriate control circuit to 12 volts.
- DTC B0228 is for the recirculate actuator.
- DTC B0423 is for the air temperature actuator.
- DTC B3779 is for the mode actuator.
The HVAC control module supplies the evaporator temperature sensor with a low reference circuit and 5-volt signal circuit. The HVAC control module determines the voltage drop across the sensor, which is proportional to temperature. When the refrigerant temperature is low the sensor resistance and voltage signal are high.
The engine control module (ECM) monitors the high side refrigerant pressure through the A/C refrigerant pressure sensor. The ECM supplies a 5-volt reference and a low reference to the sensor. Changes in the A/C refrigerant pressure cause the A/C refrigerant pressure sensor signal to the ECM to vary. When the pressure is low, the signal voltage is low. When the pressure is high, the ECM commands the cooling fans on. When pressure is too high or too low, the ECM will not allow the A/C compressor clutch to engage.
When the A/C switch is pressed, the HVAC control assembly sends a serial data message to the engine control module (ECM) for an A/C request. This input will request the ECM to ground the A/C compressor clutch relay control circuit, which will switch the A/C CLTCH relay. With the relay contacts closed, battery voltage is supplied to the A/C compressor clutch assembly.
When the A/C switch is pressed, the HVAC control assembly sends a serial data message to the engine control module (ECM) for an A/C request. This input will request the ECM to ground the A/C compressor clutch relay control circuit, which will switch the A/C CLTCH relay. With the relay contacts closed, battery voltage is supplied to the A/C compressor clutch assembly.
The blower motor control module is an interface between the HVAC control module and the blower motor. The blower motor speed control, battery positive and ground circuits enable the control module to operate. The HVAC control module provides a variable voltage to the blower motor control module to request the selected blower speed. The blower motor control module provides a pulse width modulation (PWM) signal to the blower motor in order to control the blower motor speed. The module supplies 12 volts to the blower motor through the blower motor voltage supply circuit.
Air Temperature Sensors
The air temperature sensors are a 2-wire negative temperature co-efficient thermistor. The vehicle uses the following air temperature sensors
- Ambient air temperature sensor
- Inside air temperature sensor assembly
- Upper air temperature sensor
- Lower air temperature sensor
- A/C evaporator temperature sensor
A signal and low reference circuit enables the sensor to operate. As the air temperature surrounding the sensor increases, the sensor resistance decreases. The sensor signal voltage decreases as the resistance decreases. The sensor operates within a temperature range between -40 to +101°C (-40 to +215°F). The sensor signal varies between 0-5 volts. The input of the duct air temperature sensors are different from the ambient and inside air temperature sensors. The HVAC control module converts the signal to a range between 0-255 counts. As the air temperature increases the count value will decrease.
Sun Load Sensor Assembly
The sunload sensor is a 2-wire photo diode. The vehicle uses left and right sunload sensors. The 2 sensors are integrated into the sunload sensor assembly. Low reference and signal circuits enable the sensor to operate. As the light shining upon the sensor gets brighter, the sensor resistance increases. The sensor signal decreases as the resistance increases. The sensor operates within an intensity range between completely dark and bright. The sensor signal varies between 0-5 volts. The HVAC control module converts the signal to a range between 0-255 counts. The sunload sensor provides the HVAC control module a measurement of the amount of light shining on the vehicle. Bright, or high intensity, light causes the vehicles inside temperature to increase. The HVAC system compensates for the increased temperature by diverting additional cool air into the vehicle. If the HVAC control module detects a malfunctioning sensor, then the control module software will use a defaulted sunload value.
Heater Core Coolant Pump
The primary purpose of the heater core coolant pump is to circulate engine coolant through the HVAC heater core when heat is required in the cabin for comfort. This normally happens when the vehicle is in an Auto Stop and the mechanical pump is not spinning. If the HVAC control module has determined heat is needed for the cabin, this pump is turned on once the engine is shut off so the customer does not notice a change in heater duct discharge temperatures. The SGCM starter generator control module controls the auxiliary coolant pump. Heater core coolant pump relay supplies voltage to the heater core coolant pump.
Air Delivery Description and Operation
The air delivery description and operation is divided into 4 areas
- HVAC control components
- Air speed
- Air delivery
- Recirculation operation
Recirculation Operation
The recirculation actuator is a 5-wire bi-directional electric motor that incorporates a feedback potentiometer. Low reference, 5-volt reference, position signal, and 2 control circuits enable the actuators to operate. The control circuits use either a 0 or 12-volt value to coordinate the actuator movement. When the actuator is at rest, both control circuits have a value of 0 volt. In order to move the actuator, the HVAC control module grounds one of the control circuits while providing the other with 12 volts. The HVAC control module reverses the polarity of the control circuits to move the actuator in the opposite direction. When the actuator shaft rotates, the potentiometer's adjustable contact changes the door position signal between 0-5 volts.
Air Temperature Description and Operation
The air temperature controls are divided into 4 areas
- HVAC control components
- Heating and A/C operation
- Engine coolant
- A/C cycle