Contents Wiring diagrams Section: Engine Controls - Tests W/codes - 7.4L: Diagnosis All sections

READING TROUBLE CODES GMC C3500 HD

READING TROUBLE CODES

The control module stores component failure information under a related trouble code which can be recalled for diagnosis and repair. Read trouble codes by counting Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) flashes or with diagnostic scan tester connected to the Data Link Connector (DLC). The tester is faster, and capable of reading information which would require testing individual control module and sensor/solenoid connector terminals with a digital voltmeter. Some models REQUIRE a scan tester to pull trouble codes. See SCAN TESTER DATA and SCAN TESTER USAGE .

Note. When using a scan tester, there is a time delay between serial data updates. For instantaneous response, a digital voltmeter must be used.

If scan tester is not available, MIL flashes can be read by grounding DLC terminal with ignition on and engine off. For example, FLASH, FLASH, pause, FLASH, longer pause, indicates Code 21. The first series of flashes are the first digit of trouble code. The second series of flashes are the second digit of trouble code. Trouble codes are displayed starting with the lowest code. Each code is displayed 3 times and will continue as long as DLC is grounded.

Note. Trouble codes will be recorded at various operating times. Some codes require sensor or switch operation for 5 seconds and others may require longer under certain conditions. Some codes may not set in a service bay operational mode.

CodeProbable Cause
12No Engine Speed Sensor Reference Pulse
CODE 13Open Oxygen Sensor Circuit
CODE 14Coolant Sensor Signal Voltage Low
CODE 15Coolant Sensor Signal Voltage High
CODE 16VSS Buffer Fault
CODE 21TPS Signal Voltage High
CODE 22TPS Signal Voltage Low
CODE 24Vehicle Speed Sensor - "C" & "K" Series
CODE 24VSS Transmission Output Signal - A/T
CODE 28Transmission Range Pressure Switch
CODE 32EGR Circuit Error Backpressure EGR With Sol - "G" Series
CODE 32EGR Circuit Error With Evrv Solenoid
CODE 32EGR Circuit Error - "P" Series With Linear EGR
CODE 32EGR Circuit Error - Series W/ Linear EGR
CODE 33MAP Sensor Signal Voltage High
CODE 34MAP Sensor Signal Voltage Low
CODE 35Idle Speed Error
CODE 36Idle Speed Actuator Fault - A/T
CODE 37TCC Brake Switch On
CODE 38TCC Brake Switch Off
CODE 39TCC Stuck Off - 4L80-E Transmission
CODE 42Ignition Control
CODE 43Knock Sensor Without Spark Module (Dual Sensors)
CODE 43Knock Sensor Without Spark Module (Single Sensor)
CODE 43Knock Sensor With Spark Control Module
CODE 44Lean Exhaust Indicated
CODE 45Rich Exhaust Indication
CODE 51PROM Error (Faulty Or Incorrect PROM)
CODE 52Faulty Calpak
CODE 52System Voltage High
CODE 53System Voltage High
CODE 54Fuel Pump Circuit
CODE 55ECM/PCM Error
CODE 58Transmission Fluid Temperature High
CODE 59Transmission Fluid Temperature Low
CODE 663-2 Control Solenoid Ckt Fault 4L60-E Transmission
CODE 67TCC Solenoid Circuit Check - 4L60-E Transmission
CODE 68Overdrive Ratio Error - 4L80-E Transmission
CODE 69Torque Converter Clutch Stuck On 4L60-E Transmission
CODE 69Torque Converter Clutch Stuck On 4L80-E Transmission
CODE 72VSS Circuit Loss Transmission Output Signal
CODE 73Pressure Control Solenoid (Current Error)
CODE 74Transmission Input Speed Error 4L80-E Transmission
CODE 75System Voltage Low
CODE 79Transmission Fluid Temperature High
CODE 81Transmission 2-3 Error
CODE 82Transmission 1-2 Error
CODE 83TCC Solenoid Circuit Fault (4L80E)
CODE 85Undefined Gear Ratio (4L80E)
CODE 86Low Gear Ratio ERROR (4L80E)
CODE 87High Gear Ratio ERROR (4L80E)

TROUBLE CODE IDENTIFICATION

Note. On models not using "P" series codes, Code 12 should always exist when DLC test terminal is grounded with key on and engine off, but it may not be indicated by all makes of scan tester.