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Home/Chevrolet/Traverse/Chevrolet Traverse I (2008-2012)/Repair manual/Automatic HVAC System/HVAC System - Automatic: Overview
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HVAC System - Automatic: Overview Chevrolet Traverse I

Automatic HVAC System ~2722 words

Circuit/System Description

The HVAC control module monitors the ambient air temperature sensor with a low reference circuit and 5-volt signal circuit. The HVAC control module monitors the voltage drop across the sensor, which is proportional to temperature. 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).

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.

Passenger compartment temperature sensor refers to the inside air temperature sensor.

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.

  1. DTC B0173 output Air Temperature Sensor 1 refers to the upper left air duct temperature sensor
  2. DTC B0178 output Air Temperature Sensor 2 refers to the lower left air duct temperature sensor
  3. DTC B0509 output Air Temperature Sensor 3 refers to the upper right air duct temperature sensor
  4. DTC B0514 output Air Temperature Sensor 4 refers to the lower right air duct temperature sensor

The actuators operate using 5 circuits. A 5-volt 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-volt 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.

  1. DTC B0228 is for the recirculate actuator
  2. DTC B0413 is for the left air temperature actuator
  3. DTC B0423 is for the right air temperature actuator
  4. DTC B0433 is for the auxiliary air temperature actuator
  5. DTC B3782 is for the auxiliary mode actuator
  6. DTC B3779 is for the mode actuator

This DTC will be set by internal fault inside the HVAC control module for a stuck or shorted control button.

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.

Circuit System Description

When the A/C switch is pressed, the HVAC control module sends a serial data message to the ECM. This input will request the engine control module (ECM) to ground the A/C compressor clutch relay control circuit, which will switch the A/C CMPRSR CLUTCH relay on. 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 module sends a serial data message to the ECM. This input will request the engine control module (ECM) to ground the A/C compressor clutch relay control circuit, which will switch the A/C CMPRSR CLUTCH relay on. 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 pulse width modulation (PWM) signal to the blower motor speed control module in order to command the blower motor speed. The module supplies 12 volts to the blower motor through the blower motor voltage supply circuit.

The auxiliary blower motor is a variable speed fan. The HVAC control module controls the fan speed by sending a pulse width modulated signal to the auxiliary blower motor control module. The auxiliary blower motor control module varies the duty cycle across the auxiliary blower motor in relation to the pulse width modulated signal. The auxiliary blower motor speed can be adjusted from 10 percent to 90 percent duty cycle (PWM), 90 percent is high speed fan.

Air Temperature Sensors

The air temperature sensors are a 2-wire negative temperature co-efficient thermistor. The vehicle uses the following air temperature sensors

  1. Ambient Air Temperature Sensor
  2. Inside Air Temperature Sensor Assembly
  3. Upper Left Air Temperature Sensor
  4. Upper Right Air Temperature Sensor
  5. Lower Left Air Temperature Sensor
  6. Lower Right Air Temperature Sensor
  7. 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. If the HVAC control module or auxiliary HVAC control module detects a malfunctioning sensor, then the control module software will use a defaulted air temperature value. The default value for the ambient and inside air temperature sensors will be displayed on the scan tool. The default value for the duct air temperature sensors will not be displayed on the scan tool. The scan tool parameter for the duct air temperature sensors are the actual state of the signal circuit. The default action ensures that the HVAC system can adjust the inside air temperature near the desired temperature until the condition is corrected.

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. This value will not be displayed on the scan tool. The default action ensures that the HVAC system can adjust the inside air temperature near the desired temperature until the condition is fixed. The scan tool parameter for the sunload sensor is the actual state of the signal circuit.

Air Delivery Description and Operation

The air delivery description and operation is divided into 7 areas

  1. HVAC Control Components
  2. Air Speed
  3. Auxiliary Air Speed
  4. Air Delivery
  5. Auxiliary Air Delivery
  6. Recirculation Operation
  7. Automatic Operation

Recirculation Operation

The HVAC control module controls the air intake through the recirculation actuator. The recirculation switch closes the recirculation door in order to circulate the air within the vehicle. The outside air switch opens the recirculation door in order to route outside air into the vehicle. Regardless of the blower motor switch position, recirculation is available only in the panel and bi-level mode switch positions. Including the OFF position. The mode switch must be placed in either the panel or bi-level position before the blower motor switch is placed in the OFF position. In order to reduce windshield fogging, outside air is circulated when the mode switch is in the defrost or defog positions. If the recirculation switch is pressed into the ON position when the mode switch is in an unavailable mode position, then the recirculation switch LED will flash 3 times. If the HVAC control module detects a fault with the recirc door the HVAC control module will try to drive the actuator for a predetermined amount of time, to outside air, which is the defaulted position for the recirculation actuator.

Automatic Operation

In automatic operation, the HVAC control module will maintain the comfort level inside of the vehicle by controlling the A/C compressor clutch, the blower motor, the air temperature actuators, mode actuator and circulation.

To place the HVAC system in Automatic mode, the following is required

  1. The Auto switch must be activated
  2. The air temperature switch must be in any other position other than full hot or full cold position

Once the desired temperature is reached, the blower motor, mode, recirculation and temperature actuators will automatically be adjusted to maintain the temperature selected. The HVAC control module performs the following functions to maintain the desired air temperature

  1. Monitor the following sensors: Inside air temperature sensor Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Lower Left Air Temperature Sensor Lower Right Air Temperature Sensor Upper Left Air Temperature Sensor Upper Right Air Temperature Sensor
  2. Regulate blower motor speed
  3. Position the air temperature actuator
  4. Position the mode actuator
  5. Position the recirculation actuator
  6. Request A/C operation

Air Temperature Description and Operation

The air temperature controls are divided into 7 areas

  1. HVAC Control Components
  2. Heating and A/C Operation
  3. Auxiliary Heating and A/C Operation
  4. Automatic Operation
  5. Auxiliary Automatic Operation
  6. Engine Coolant
  7. A/C Cycle

Heating and A/C Operation

The purpose of the heating and A/C system is to provide heated and cooled air to the interior of the vehicle. The A/C system will also remove humidity from the interior and reduce windshield fogging. The vehicle operator can determine the passenger compartment temperature by adjusting the air temperature switch. The vehicle passenger can offset the passenger temperature as much as 16.7°C (30°F). Regardless of the temperature setting, the following can effect the rate that the HVAC system can achieve the desired temperature

  1. Recirculation actuator setting
  2. Difference between inside and desired temperature
  3. Difference between ambient and desired temperature
  4. Blower motor speed setting
  5. Mode setting
  6. Auxiliary HVAC settings

The control module makes the following actions when automatic operation is not selected, and an air temperature setting is selected

When the air temperature switch is placed in the warmest position, the control module commands the air temperature door to divert maximum air past the heater core.

When the air temperature switch is placed in the coldest position, the control module commands the air temperature door to direct air to bypass the heater core.

When the air temperature switch is placed between the warmest and coldest positions, the control module monitors the following sensor inputs to determine the air temperature door position that diverts the appropriate amount of air past the heater core in order to achieve the desired temperature

  1. Sunload
  2. Duct temperatures
  3. Ambient temperature
  4. Inside temperature

The A/C system can be engaged by either pressing the A/C switch or during automatic operation. The HVAC control module sends a GMLAN message to the PCM for A/C compressor engagement. The PCM will provide a ground for the A/C compressor relay enabling it to close its internal contacts to send battery voltage to the A/C compressor clutch coil. The A/C compressor diode will prevent a voltage spike, resulting from the collapse of the magnetic field of the coil, from entering the vehicle electrical system when the compressor is disengaged.

The following conditions must be met in order for the A/C compressor clutch to turn on

  1. Ambient air temperature above 2°C (35°F)
  2. A/C low pressure switch signal circuit is grounded
  3. A/C refrigerant pressure sensor parameter is less than 2957 kPa (429 psi)
  4. PCM receives an A/C request from the HVAC control module
  5. Engine coolant temperature (ECT) is less than 121°C (250°F)
  6. The engine RPM is more than 550 RPM
  7. The throttle position is less than 100 percent

The HVAC control module monitors the A/C low pressure switch signal circuit. If the voltage signal on this circuit has no voltage drop the module will interpret this condition as a low pressure, disabling the A/C request. The A/C low pressure switch will open its internal contacts at 151 kPa (22 psi). Then close the contacts at 275 kPa (40 psi) to resume A/C operation. This switch assists in cycling the A/C compressor and prevents A/C compressor operation if system has a low refrigerant level.

The PCM monitors the A/C refrigerant pressure sensor signal circuit. The voltage signal on this circuit is proportional to the refrigerant pressure inside the A/C high side pressure line. As the pressure inside the line increases, so does the voltage signal. If the pressure is above 2957 kPa (429 psi), the A/C compressor output is disabled. When the pressure lowers to 1578 kPa (229 psi), the PCM enables the compressor to operate.

The sensor information is used by the PCM to determine the following

  1. The A/C high side pressure
  2. An A/C system load on the engine
  3. An excessive A/C high side pressure
  4. The heat load at the A/C condenser

Once engaged, the compressor clutch will be disengaged for the following conditions

  1. Ambient air temperature is less than 4°C (39°F)
  2. Throttle position is 100 percent
  3. The A/C low pressure switch is open
  4. A/C high side pressure is more than 2957 kPa (429 psi)
  5. A/C low side pressure is less than 151 kPa (22 psi)
  6. Engine coolant temperature (ECT) is more than 121°C (250°F)
  7. Engine speed is more than 5500 RPM
  8. Transmission shift
  9. PCM detects excessive torque load
  10. PCM detects insufficient idle quality
  11. PCM detects a hard launch condition

In automatic operation, the HVAC control module will maintain the comfort level inside of the vehicle by controlling the A/C compressor clutch, the blower motor, the air temperature actuators, mode actuator and recirculation.

To place the HVAC system in Automatic mode, the following is required

The Auto switch must be activated The air temperature switch must be in any other position other than full hot or full cold position

Once the desired temperature is reached, the blower motor, mode, recirculation and temperature actuators will automatically be adjusted to maintain the temperature selected. The HVAC control module performs the following functions to maintain the desired air temperature

  1. Monitor the following sensors: Inside Air Temperature Sensor Ambient Air Temperature Sensor Lower Left Air Temperature Sensor Lower Right Air Temperature Sensor Upper Left Air Temperature Sensor Upper Right Air Temperature Sensor
  2. Regulate blower motor speed
  3. Position the air temperature actuator
  4. Position the mode actuator
  5. Position the recirculation actuator
  6. Request A/C operation

In automatic operation, the auxiliary HVAC control module will maintain the comfort level inside of the vehicle by controlling the auxiliary blower motor, the auxiliary air temperature actuator and the auxiliary mode actuator.

To place the auxiliary HVAC system in Automatic mode, the following is required

  1. The auxiliary blower motor switch on the front HVAC control assembly must be in the Auto position.
  2. The auxiliary mode switch on the front HVAC control assembly must be in the Auto position.
  3. The auxiliary air temperature switch must be in any other position other than full hot or full cold position.

Once the desired temperature is reached, the auxiliary blower motor, auxiliary mode and auxiliary temperature actuator will automatically be adjusted to maintain the temperature selected. The auxiliary HVAC control module performs the following functions to maintain the desired air temperature

  1. Upper Air Temperature Sensor - Auxiliary
  2. Lower Air Temperature Sensor - Auxiliary
  3. Regulate auxiliary blower motor speed
  4. Position the auxiliary air temperature actuator
  5. Position the auxiliary mode actuator

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