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Engine Controls Self-Diagnostics: Other Pontiac Aztek I

Testing & Diagnostics ~3357 words

Code Types

There are 4 types of DTC categories

  1. Type "A" Emissions related. Illuminates MIL the first time DTC sets.
  2. Type "B" Emissions related. Illuminates MIL if fault is active for 2 consecutive driving cycles.
  3. Type "C" Non-emissions related. Does not illuminate MIL, but will illuminate SERVICE light.
  4. Type "D" Non-emissions related. Does not illuminate MIL or SERVICE light.

Freeze Frame/Failure Records

PCM stores one freeze frame record (failure record "0") for the first failed test that sets a DTC and illuminates MIL. Freeze frame will not be overwritten unless a misfire or fuel trim DTC is set. Failure records are stored when any DTC is set. Six additional failure records can be stored in PCM. Failure records will be stored for all types of codes, whether or not the MIL is illuminated. If more than 6 DTCs are set, oldest DTC is deleted as newest DTC is stored. Typical failure record data includes

  1. Air/fuel ratio.
  2. Airflow rate.
  3. Fuel trim.
  4. Engine speed.
  5. Engine load.
  6. Engine coolant temperature.
  7. Vehicle speed.
  8. Throttle position angle.
  9. Manifold absolute pressure.
  10. Injector base pulse width.
  11. Loop status.

Monitors

  1. Comprehensive Component Monitor Monitors PCM systems for opens, shorts grounds and out-of-range sensors. Also monitors rationality of sensors. Rationality is whether the sensor value is consistent with the operating conditions of the other sensors.
  2. Misfire Monitor Monitors engine misfire using crankshaft sensor to determine location and severity of misfire. A catalyst damaging misfire will flash the MIL, and a non-catalyst damaging misfire is a normal type "B" code.
  3. Fuel Trim Monitor Monitors short and long term fuel trim for being at maximum lean or rich limit.
  4. Oxygen Sensor Monitor Monitors all oxygen sensors for maximum voltage level, minimum voltage level and lean-rich/rich-lean switching rate.
  5. Oxygen Sensor Heater Monitor Monitors oxygen sensor heater by watching sensor's time-to-activity after a cold start.
  6. Catalyst Monitor Monitors catalyst efficiency by comparing activity rate of pre-catalyst oxygen sensor and post-catalyst oxygen sensor.
  7. EGR Monitor (If Equipped) Monitors operation and flow rate of EGR system.
  8. EVAP Monitor Monitors EVAP system for large leaks, small leaks and purge flow.
  9. Secondary Air Monitor (If Equipped) Monitors secondary air operation.

Hard Failures

Hard failures cause Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) to illuminate and remain on until problem is repaired. If light comes on and remains on (light may flash) during vehicle operation, cause of malfunction must be determined using diagnostic (code) charts. If a sensor fails, PCM will use a substitute value in its calculations to continue engine operation. In this condition, commonly known as limp-in mode, the vehicle runs but driveability will not be optimum.

Intermittent Failures

Intermittent failures may cause Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) to flicker or illuminate and go out after the intermittent fault goes away. However, the corresponding trouble code will be retained in PCM memory. If related fault does not reoccur within a certain time frame, related trouble code will be erased from PCM memory. Intermittent failures may be caused by a sensor, connector or wiring related problems. See INTERMITTENTS in TROUBLE SHOOTING - NO CODES - 3.4L AZTEK & RENDEZVOUS article.

Disconnect Battery

Note. On many OBD-II systems, PCM will retain memory for an extended period of time with battery disconnected. Memory may be retained for several days.

Disconnecting PCM power or battery ground will clear all PCM memory including DTCs, freeze frame, failure records, adaptive learning and system monitors.

Warm-Up Cycles

If fault that caused DTC to set is repaired, PCM will begin to count warm-up cycles. After 40 consecutive warm-up cycles with no further faults, PCM will automatically clear DTC from memory.

CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR

Note. For additional diagnostic information, see DTC P0336: CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR CIRCUIT PERFORMANCE .

  1. Install a scan tool.
  2. With a scan tool, monitor the powertrain control module for DTCs. If other DTCs are set, except DTC P1336, see «DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE DEFINITIONS»(ref-155075-S27919636112003060600000) .
  3. With a scan tool, select the crankshaft position variation learn procedure.
  4. Observe the fuel cut-off for the engine that you are performing the learn procedure on.
  5. The scan tool instructs you to perform the following: Block drive wheels. Apply vehicles parking brake. Cycle ignition from OFF to ON. Apply and hold brake pedal. Start and idle engine. Turn OFF the A/C. Place transmission in Park (A/T) or Neutral (M/T). The scan tool monitors certain component signals to determine if all the conditions are met to continue with the procedure. The scan tool only displays the condition that inhibits the procedure. The scan tool monitors the following components: Crankshaft Position (CKP) sensor activity. If there is a CKP sensor condition, refer to the applicable DTC that set. See «DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE DEFINITIONS»(ref-155075-S27919636112003060600000) . Camshaft Position (CMP) sensor activity. If there is a CMP sensor condition, refer to the applicable DTC that set. See «DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE DEFINITIONS»(ref-155075-S27919636112003060600000) . Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT). If the engine coolant temperature is not warm enough, idle the engine until the engine coolant temperature reaches the correct temperature.
  6. With the scan tool, enable the crankshaft position system variation learn procedure.
  7. Slowly increase the engine speed to the RPM that you observed.
  8. Immediately release throttle when fuel cut-off is reached.
  9. The scan tool displays Learn Status: Learned this ignition. If the scan tool does NOT display this message and no additional DTCs set, see «DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM CHECK - ENGINE CONTROLS»(ref-155075-S24848794192003060600000) under SELF-DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM. If a DTC set, see «DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE DEFINITIONS»(ref-155075-S27919636112003060600000) .
  10. Turn ignition off for 30 seconds after the learn procedure has been completed successfully.

No Driver Information Center

  1. With ignition on and engine off, fully push and release the accelerator pedal slowly 3 times within 5 seconds.
  2. Turn ignition OFF.
  3. If the CHANGE ENGINE OIL message comes back on, the engine oil life monitor has not reset. Repeat the procedure.

Optional Driver Information Center

  1. Turn ignition on, with engine off.
  2. Press the MODE button until the DIC reads OIL LIFE LEFT/HOLD SET TO RESET.
  3. Press and hold the SET button until 100 percent is displayed. You will hear 3 chimes and the CHANGE ENGINE OIL message will go off. If the CHANGE ENGINE OIL message comes back on, the monitor has not reset. Repeat the procedure.

POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE

Note. Programming Powertrain Control Module (PCM) requires a compatible scan tool and a Techline® terminal. Procedure uses a Tech 2 scanner.

Remote Programming

Note. DO NOT program a control module unless you are directed by a service procedure or you are directed by a technical service bulletin. Programming a control module at any other time will not permanently correct a customer's concern.

Before Programming a Control Module

  1. Vehicle system voltage: There is no charging system concern. All charging system concerns must be repaired before programming a control module. Battery voltage is greater than 12 volts but less than 16 volts. The battery must be charged before programming the control module if the battery voltage is low. A battery charger is NOT connected to the vehicle's battery. Incorrect system voltage or voltage fluctuations from a battery charger, may cause programming failure or control module damage. Turn OFF or disable any system that may put a load on the vehicle's battery. Twilight sentinel and Interior lights. Daytime Running Lights (DRL). Applying the parking brake, on most vehicles, disables the DRL system. See owner's manual. Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems. Engine cooling fans, etc.
  2. The ignition switch is in the proper position. The scan tool prompts you to Turn ignition on, with engine off. DO NOT change the position of the ignition switch during the programming procedure, unless instructed to do so.
  3. All tool connections are secure. RS-232. The connection at the Data Link Connector (DLC) is secure. Voltage supply circuits.
  4. DO NOT disturb the tool harnesses while programming. If an interruption occurs during the programming procedure, programming failure or control module damage may occur.

Remote Programming

  1. Turn ignition off
  2. Install the Tech 2™ to the data link connector (DLC).
  3. Turn ignition on, with engine off.
  4. Turn OFF all vehicle accessories.
  5. With the Tech 2™, select Service Programming.
  6. Identify vehicle information as requested by the Tech 2™.
  7. Select the type of module you are programming.
  8. Select the type of programming to be performed.
  9. Verify the displayed VIN with the vehicle VIN. If the displayed VIN does not match the actual VIN, write down the actual VIN and correct the VIN at the Techline™ terminal.
  10. When complete, Exit Service Programming.
  11. Turn OFF the Tech 2™ and disconnect the Tech 2™ from the vehicle.
  12. Turn ignition off
  13. Connect the Tech 2™ to the Techline™ terminal.
  14. Select Service Programming.
  15. Select Tech 2™ as the tool you are using.
  16. Select the type of programming to be performed.
  17. Verify the displayed VIN with the vehicle VIN. Correct the VIN as necessary.
  18. Select the type of module you are programming.
  19. Identify what type of programming that you are performing. Normal. This type of programming is for updating an existing calibration or programming a new controller. Vehicle Configuration Index (VCI). This selection is used if the vehicle VIN is unavailable or not recognized by the Techline™ terminal. You will need to contact the Techline™ customer support center to use this option. Reconfigure. This is to reconfigure a vehicle, such as tire size and axle ratio changes.
  20. Select the appropriate calibration file.
  21. Ensure all connections are secure.
  22. Select Reprog to initiate the download of the new calibration to the Tech 2™.
  23. After the download is complete, turn OFF the Tech 2™.
  24. Disconnect the Tech 2™ from the Techline™ terminal.
  25. Install the Tech 2™ to the data link connector (DLC).
  26. Turn ON the Tech 2™.
  27. Turn ignition on, with engine off.
  28. Select Service Programming.
  29. Select Program.
  30. After the download is complete, EXIT Service Programming.
  31. Turn ignition off for 30 seconds.
  32. Turn OFF the Tech 2™.
  33. If a control module is replaced the following service procedures must be performed: «CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR»(ref-155075-S19437808102003060600000) , «ENGINE OIL LIFE RESET»(ref-155075-S20938813942003060600000) , «INSPECTION/MAINTENANCE COMPLETE SYSTEM SET PROCEDURE»(ref-155075-S08016051632003060600000) under DRIVE CYCLES, and «THEFT DETERRENT PASSWORD LEARN PROCEDURE»(ref-155075-S25865232452003060600000) .

Programming Verification

  1. With a scan tool, clear the DTCs.
  2. Attempt to start the engine.
  3. Repeat the Service Programming procedure if the engine does not start or operates poorly. Perform the following procedures before programming the PCM: Ensure the control module and DLC connections are okay. Ensure the Techline™ operating software is up to date. Ensure the calibration part number is correct for the vehicle.
  4. Attempt to program the control module. If the control module still cannot be programmed properly, replace the control module. See «REMOVAL & INSTALLATION - AZTEC & RENDEZVOUS»(ref-155806) article. You must program the replacement control module.

Off-Board Programming

Note. DO NOT program a control module unless you are directed by a service procedure or you are directed by a technical service bulletin. Programming a control module at any other time will not permanently correct a customer's concern. The Off-Board Programming is used in situations where a control module must be programmed without having the vehicle present. The Off-Board Programming Adapter must be used to perform the Off-Board Programming procedure. The adapter allows the control module to power up and allows the Tech 2™ to communicate with the control module. DO NOT disturb the tool harnesses while programming. If an interruption occurs during the programming procedure, programming failure or control module damage may occur.

Before Programming a Control Module

  1. Ensure that all connections are secure at the following locations: Off-Board Programming Adapter. Tech 2™. Control module. Techline™ terminal.

Off-Board Programming

  1. Obtain the VIN of the vehicle for which the control module is being programmed.
  2. With the Techline™ terminal, select Service Programming.
  3. Select Tech 2™, Reprogram ECU, and Off-Board Programming Adapter as the ECU location.
  4. Connect the control module, Off-Board Programming Adapter, and the Tech 2™ as described on the Techline™ terminal. Ensure you use the correct harness connector from the Off-Board Programming Adapter kit.
  5. With the Tech 2™, select Service Programming Request Information function. The Tech 2™ communicates with the control module and receives the access code.
  6. With the Tech 2™, exit the Service Programming Request Information.
  7. Disconnect the Tech 2™ from the Off-Board Programming Adapter.
  8. Connect the Tech 2™ to the Techline™ terminal.
  9. Turn ON the Tech 2™.
  10. With the Techline™ terminal, enter the VIN of the vehicle that will be receiving the control module.
  11. The Techline™ terminal will display the message, attaching to database.
  12. Identify what type of programming that you are performing.
  13. Select the appropriate calibration file.
  14. Ensure all connections are secure.
  15. The Techline™ terminal displays a summary screen that summarizes your selections. After confirming you choices, the Techline™ terminal automatically loads the calibration files to the Tech 2™.
  16. After download is complete, turn OFF the Tech 2™.
  17. Disconnect the Tech 2™ from the Techline™ terminal.
  18. Connect the Tech 2™ to the Off-Board Programming Adapter.
  19. With the Tech 2™, select Service Programming.
  20. With the Tech 2™, select Program.
  21. After the download is complete, exit Service Programming.
  22. Turn OFF the Off-Board Programming Adapter.

Set Up a New Theft Deterrent Control Module

Note. When replacing a theft deterrent control module with an GM Service Parts Operation (SPO) Replacement Part, set up the control module prior to the 10-minute relearn procedure or the 30-minute relearn procedure.

Use this procedure only if replacing the theft deterrent control module with an GM SPO Replacement Part.

  1. Connect a scan tool to the vehicle.
  2. Turn ignition on, with engine off.
  3. With a scan tool, select Setup New VTD Module in the Vehicle Theft Deterrent, Special Functions data list.
  4. Follow the scan tool on-screen instructions.

Note. When replacing a theft deterrent control module with an GM SPO Replacement Part, the module will learn the keys immediately. The existing Powertrain Control Module (PCM) must learn the new fuel continue password when you replace the theft deterrent control module. When replacing a PCM with a GM SPO Replacement Part, the new PCM will learn the incoming fuel continue password immediately after programming and upon receipt of a password message. Once a password message is received and a password is learned, perform the learn procedure to change this password again. A PCM which had been installed in another vehicle will have learned the fuel continue password of the other vehicle's theft deterrent control module. Perform either the 10-minute relearn procedure or the 30-minute relearn procedure after programming to learn the fuel continue password of the current vehicle's theft deterrent control modules. When performing either relearn procedure, all previously learned keys will be erased from the theft deterrent control module's memory. Additional keys may be learned immediately after the first relearn procedure by inserting the additional key and turning the ignition to RUN within 10 seconds of removing the previously learned key. Use only a master key when performing the first relearn procedure. If you use a valet key first, the theft deterrent control module will not allow additional keys to be learned.

10-Minute Learn Procedure

Use this procedure after replacing the following components

  1. PassKey® III (PK3) keys.
  2. Theft deterrent control module.
  3. PCM.

Note. If replacing a theft deterrent control module with a GM SPO Replacement Part, perform the procedure to setup a new theft deterrent control module prior to the 10-minute relearn procedure.

  1. Connect a scan tool to the vehicle.
  2. Turn ignition on, with engine off.
  3. Ensure that all power consuming devices are turned OFF on the vehicle.
  4. With scan tool, select Request Info. under Service Programming System and follow the scan tool on-screen instructions.
  5. Disconnect the scan tool from the vehicle and connect the scan tool to a Techline™ terminal with the current Service Programming System (SPS) software.
  6. On the Techline™ terminal, select Service Programming System and follow the Techline™ Terminal on-screen instructions.
  7. Disconnect the scan tool from the Techline™ terminal and re-connect the scan tool to the vehicle.
  8. With a master PassKey® III key, turn ignition on, with engine off.
  9. With a scan tool, select Program ECU under Service Programming System.
  10. At this point the scan tool must remain connected for the duration of the 10-minute relearn procedure.
  11. Observe the scan tool, after approximately 10 minutes the scan tool will display "Programming Successful, Turn OFF Ignition". The vehicle is now ready to relearn the key information and/or the passwords on the next ignition switch transition from OFF to ON.
  12. Turn ignition off and wait 5 seconds.
  13. With a master PassKey® III key, start the vehicle. The theft deterrent control module has now learned the key transponder information and the PCM has now learned the fuel continue password.
  14. Turn ignition off and wait 15 seconds minimum.
  15. With a second master PassKey® III key, start the vehicle. The theft deterrent control module has now learned the second master PassKey® III key transponder information.
  16. With a scan tool, clear any DTCs.

30-Minute Learn Procedure

Use this procedure after replacing the following components

  1. PassKey® III (PK3) keys.
  2. Theft deterrent control module.
  3. PCM.

Note. This procedure is not available on vehicles equipped with option code (Z49 or BAE). If replacing a theft deterrent control module with an GM SPO Replacement Part, perform the procedure to setup a new theft deterrent control module prior to the 30-minute relearn procedure.

  1. With a master PassKey® III key (Black), Turn ignition on, with engine off.
  2. Observe the Security telltale, after about 10 minutes, the telltale will turn off.
  3. Turn ignition off and wait 5 seconds.
  4. Repeat steps 1 - 3 for 2 more times, for a total of 3 cycles or 30 minutes.
  5. With a master PassKey® III key, start engine. The vehicle has now learned the key transponder information and the PCM has now learned the fuel continue password.
  6. With a scan tool, clear any DTCs.

DRIVE CYCLES

See INSPECTION/MAINTENANCE SYSTEM CHECK .

Conditions for Updating I/M System Status

Each system requires at least one, and sometimes several, diagnostic tests. The results of these tests are reported by a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC). A system monitor is complete when either all of the DTCs comprising the monitor have Run and Passed, or any one of the DTCs comprising the monitor have illuminated the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL). Once all of the tests are complete, the I/M System Status display will indicate YES in the Completed column. For example, when the Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S) Heater Test indicates YES, all of the oxygen sensor heaters have been diagnosed. If the vehicle has four heated oxygen sensors, all four heater circuits have been diagnosed. The I/M System Status will indicate NO under the Completed column when any of the required tests for that system have not run. The following is a list of conditions that would set the I/M System Status indicator to NO

  1. Vehicle is new from the factory and has not yet been driven through the necessary drive conditions to complete the tests.
  2. Battery has been disconnected or discharged below operating voltage.
  3. Control module power or ground has been interrupted.
  4. Control module has been reprogrammed.
  5. Control module DTCs have been cleared as part of a service procedure.

Monitored Emission Control Systems

The OBD-II System monitors all emission control systems that are on-board. Not all vehicles have a full complement of emission control systems. For example, a vehicle may not be equipped with secondary Air Injection (AIR) or Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR). The OBD-II regulations require monitoring of the following

  1. Air conditioning system.
  2. Catalytic converter efficiency.
  3. Comprehensive component monitoring. Emission related inputs and outputs.
  4. Evaporative (EVAP) emissions system.
  5. Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system.
  6. Fuel delivery system.
  7. Heated catalyst monitoring.
  8. Misfire monitoring.
  9. Oxygen Sensor (O2S or HO2S) system.
  10. Oxygen sensor heater system (HO2S heater).
  11. Secondary Air Injection (AIR) system.

For the specific DTCs required for each system, see

INSPECTION/MAINTENANCE SYSTEM DTCS

table. Systems such as fuel delivery, misfire, and comprehensive components may not be listed in a system status list. These tests run continuously on some vehicles and may not require an indicator.

SUMMARY

If no hard fault DTCs are present, driveability symptoms exist or intermittent DTCs exist, proceed to TROUBLE SHOOTING - NO CODES - 3.4L AZTEK & RENDEZVOUS article for diagnosis by symptom (i.e., ROUGH IDLE, NO-START, etc.) or intermittent diagnostic procedures.

AZTEK

For wiring diagrams, see ENGINE PERFORMANCE in SYSTEM WIRING DIAGRAMS article in ELECTRICAL.

RENDEZVOUS

For wiring diagrams, see ENGINE PERFORMANCE in SYSTEM WIRING DIAGRAMS article in ELECTRICAL.

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