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Engine Controls - 2.2L (L61) - Introduction: Other Saturn ION I

Testing & Diagnostics 3 illustrations ~5587 words

Temperature vs Resistance

°C°FOHMS
Temperature vs Resistance Values (Approximate)
15030247
14028460
13026677
120248100
110230132
100212177
90194241
80176332
70158467
60140667
50122973
451131188
401041459
35951802
30862238
25772796
20683520
15594450
10505670
5417280
0329420
52312300
101416180
15521450
20428680
302252700
4040100700

Temperature vs Resistance

Altitude vs Barometric Pressure

Altitude Measured in Meters (m)Altitude Measured in Feet (ft)Barometric Pressure Measured in Kilopascals (kPa)
Determine your altitude by contacting a local weather station or by using another reference source.
4 26714,00056-64
3 96213,00058-66
3 65812,00061-69
3 35311,00064-72
3 04810,00066-74
2 7439,00069-77
2 4388,00071-79
2 1347,00074-82
1 8296,00077-85
1 5245,00080-88
1 2194,00083-91
9143,00087-95
6102,00090-98
3051,00094-102
00 Sea Level96-104
3051,000101-105

Altitude vs Barometric Pressure

Action Taken When the DTC Sets - Type A

  1. The control module illuminates the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) when the diagnostic runs and fails.
  2. The control module records the operating conditions at the time the diagnostic fails. The control module stores this information in the Freeze Frame/Failure Records.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets - Type B

  1. The control module illuminates the MIL on the second consecutive ignition cycle that the diagnostic runs and fails.
  2. The control module records the operating conditions at the time the diagnostic fails. The first time the diagnostic fails, the control module stores this information in the Failure Records. If the diagnostic reports a failure on the second consecutive ignition cycle, the control module records the operating conditions at the time of the failure. The control module writes the operating conditions to the Freeze Frame and updates the Failure Records.

Conditions for Clearing the MIL/DTC - Type A or Type B

  1. The control module turns OFF the MIL after 3 consecutive ignition cycles that the diagnostic runs and does not fail.
  2. A current DTC Last Test Failed clears when the diagnostic runs and passes.
  3. A history DTC clears after 40 consecutive warm-up cycles, if no failures are reported by this or any other emission related diagnostic.
  4. Use a scan tool in order to clear the MIL and the DTC.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets - Type C

  1. The control module stores the DTC information into memory when the diagnostic runs and fails.
  2. The MIL will not illuminate.
  3. The control module records the operating conditions at the time the diagnostic fails. The control module stores this information in the Failure Records.
  4. The driver information center, if equipped, may display a message.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets - Type D

  1. The control module stores the DTC information into memory when the diagnostic runs and fails.
  2. The MIL will not illuminate.
  3. The control module records the operating conditions at the time the diagnostic fails. The control module stores this information in the Failure Records.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC - Type C or Type D

  1. A last test failed, or current DTC, clears when the diagnostic runs and passes.
  2. A history DTC clears after 40 consecutive warm-up cycles, if no failures are reported by this or any other non-emission related diagnostic.
  3. Use a scan tool in order to clear the DTC.

CKP System Variation Learn Procedure

  1. Install a scan tool.
  2. Monitor the engine control module (ECM) for DTCs with a scan tool. If other DTCs are set, except DTC P0315, refer to «Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle»(ref-196940-S26563916852005101000000) in Vehicle DTC Information for the applicable DTC that set.
  3. Select the crankshaft position (CKP) variation learn procedure with a scan tool.
  4. The scan tool instructs you to perform the following: Accelerate to wide open throttle (WOT). Release the throttle when the fuel cutoff occurs. Observe the fuel cutoff for the applicable engine. The engine should not accelerate beyond the calibrated RPM value. Release the throttle immediately if the value is exceeded. Block the drive wheels. Set the parking brake. DO NOT apply the brake pedal. Cycle the ignition from OFF to ON. Apply and hold the brake pedal. Start and idle the engine. Turn the air conditioning (A/C) OFF. The vehicle must remain in Park or Neutral. 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: CKP sensors activity - If there is a CKP sensor condition, refer to the applicable DTC that set. Camshaft position (CMP) signal activity - If there is a CMP signal condition, refer to the applicable DTC that set. 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.
  5. Enable the CKP system variation learn procedure with the scan tool and perform the following: Accelerate to WOT. Release when fuel cutoff occurs. Test in progress.
  6. The scan tool displays Learn Status: Learned this ignition. If the scan tool indicates that DTC P0315 ran and passed, the CKP variation learn procedure is complete. If the scan tool indicates DTC P0315 failed or did not run, refer to «DTC P0315»(ref-197002-S06021087632005101000000) . If any other DTCs set, refer to «Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List - Vehicle»(ref-196940-S26563916852005101000000) in Vehicle DTC Information for the applicable DTC that set.
  7. Turn OFF the ignition for 30 seconds after the learn procedure is completed successfully.
  8. The CKP system variation learn procedure is also required when the following service procedures have been performed, regardless of whether DTC P0315 is set: Engine replacement ECM replacement A harmonic balancer replacement Crankshaft replacement CKP sensor replacement Any engine repairs which disturb the crankshaft to CKP sensor relationship

Tools Required

J 39194-C Oxygen Sensor Wrench

J 39194-C Oxygen Sensor Wrench

Throttle Body Cleaning Procedure

  1. Remove the air cleaner outlet duct. Refer to «Air Cleaner Outlet Resonator Replacement»(ref-196955-S23042070872005101000000) .
  2. Inspect the throttle body bore and the throttle valve plate for deposits. You must open the throttle valve in order to inspect all of the surfaces.
  3. Clean the throttle body bore and the throttle valve plate using a clean shop towel with Top Engine Cleaner, Saturn P/N 21007129 or an equivalent product.
  4. If the deposits are excessive, remove and disassemble the throttle body for cleaning. Refer to «Throttle Body Assembly Replacement»(ref-196955-S38396323962005101000000) .
  5. After disassembly, clean the throttle body using a parts cleaning brush. DO NOT immerse the throttle body in any cleaning solvent.
  6. If you removed and disassembled the throttle body for cleaning, assemble and install the throttle body. Refer to «Throttle Body Assembly Replacement»(ref-196955-S38396323962005101000000) .
  7. Install the air cleaner outlet duct. Refer to «Air Cleaner Outlet Resonator Replacement»(ref-196955-S23042070872005101000000) .

SA9127E Gage Bar Set, or J 34730-1A Fuel Pressure Gage

  1. Turn the ignition OFF.
  2. Disconnect the battery negative cable in order to avoid possible fuel discharge if an accidental attempt is made to start the engine. Refer to «Battery Negative Cable Disconnect/Connect Procedure»(ref-196956-S04090516432005101000000) in Engine Electrical.
  3. Loosen the fuel filler cap to relieve the fuel tank vapor pressure.
  4. Remove the cap from the fuel pressure service port.
  5. Connect the SA9127E , or the J 34730-1A to the fuel pressure service port connection. Wrap a shop towel around the port while connecting the gauge in order to avoid spillage. Refer to «Fuel Pressure Gage Installation and Removal»(ref-196955-S19799878932005101000000) .
  6. Install the bleed hose of the SA9127E , or the J 34730-1A into an approved fuel container.
  7. Open the bleed valve on the SA9127E , or the J 34730-1A in order to bleed the fuel system pressure. The fuel connections are now safe for servicing.
  8. Place a shop towel under the fuel pressure service port to catch any remaining fuel spillage.
  9. Disconnect the SA9127E , or the J 34730-1A from the fuel pressure service port connection. Refer to «Fuel Pressure Gage Installation and Removal»(ref-196955-S19799878932005101000000) .
  10. Drain any fuel remaining in the gauge into an approved fuel container.
  11. Install the cap to the fuel pressure service port.

SA9127E Gage Bar Set, or J 34730-1A Fuel Pressure Gage

J 37088-A Fuel Line Disconnect Tool Set

J 39765 Fuel Sender Lock Nut Wrench

Fuel System Cleaning

IMPORTANTIf the fuel filter is plugged, the fuel tank should be inspected internally and cleaned if necessary.
  1. Remove the fuel tank. Refer to «Fuel Tank Replacement»(ref-196955-S14923477842005101000000) .
  2. Remove the fuel pump module assembly. Refer to «Fuel Pump Module Replacement»(ref-196955-S32923833382005101000000) .
  3. Inspect the fuel pump module strainer. Replace the pump module assembly if the fuel strainer is contaminated.
  4. Flush the fuel tank with hot water.
  5. Pour the water out of the fuel sender assembly opening in the fuel tank. Rock the fuel tank in order to be sure that the removal of the water from the fuel tank is complete.
  6. Allow the tank to dry completely before reassembly.
  7. Disconnect the fuel feed pipe at the engine fuel rail. Refer to «Quick Connect Fitting(s) Service (Metal Collar)»(ref-196955-S32683570782005101000000) .
  8. Clean the fuel pipes by applying air pressure in the opposite direction of the fuel flow.
  9. Connect the fuel feed pipe to the engine fuel rail. Refer to «Quick Connect Fitting(s) Service (Metal Collar)»(ref-196955-S32683570782005101000000) .
  10. Install the fuel pump module assembly. Refer to «Fuel Pump Module Replacement»(ref-196955-S32923833382005101000000) .
  11. Install the fuel tank. Refer to «Fuel Tank Replacement»(ref-196955-S14923477842005101000000) .

J 41413 EVAP Pressure and Purge Station

Cleaning Procedure

  1. Raise the vehicle. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(ref-196965-S31699626272005101000000) in General Information.
  2. Remove the EVAP canister. Refer to «Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Canister Replacement»(ref-196955-S21794892672005101000000) .
  3. Turn OFF the main valve on the J 41413 .
  4. Disconnect the hose from the diagnostic station pressure regulator.
  5. Using a section of vacuum hose, connect one end onto the EVAP pressure/purge diagnostic station pressure regulator.
  6. Connect the other end of the vacuum hose to the canister side of the purge pipe.
  7. Turn ON the main nitrogen cylinder valve and continue to discharge nitrogen for 15 seconds.
  8. If the nitrogen does not clear the blockage, replace the purge pipe.
  9. Return the EVAP pressure/purge diagnostic station to the stations original condition.
  10. Install a new EVAP canister. Refer to «Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Canister Replacement»(ref-196955-S21794892672005101000000) .
  11. Lower the vehicle.
  12. Install a new EVAP canister purge valve. Refer to «Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Canister Purge Solenoid Valve Replacement»(ref-196955-S26441694032005101000000) .
  13. Return to the diagnostic table that sent you here.

Spark Plug Usage

  1. Ensure that the correct spark plug is installed. An incorrect spark plug causes driveability conditions. Refer to «Ignition System Specifications»(ref-196955-S21360703052005101000000) for the correct spark plug.
  2. Ensure that the spark plug has the correct heat range. An incorrect heat range causes the following conditions: Spark plug fouling - colder plug Pre-ignition causing spark plug and/or engine damage - hotter plug

Scheme 44

Scheme 44: Spark Plug Inspection
  1. Inspect the terminal post (1) for damage. Inspect for a bent or broken terminal post (1). Test for a loose terminal post (1) by twisting and pulling the post. The terminal post (1) should NOT move.
  2. Inspect the insulator (2) for flashover or carbon tracking, soot. This is caused by the electrical charge traveling across the insulator (2) between the terminal post (1) and ground. Inspect for the following conditions: Inspect the spark plug boot for damage. Inspect the spark plug recess area of the cylinder head for moisture, such as oil, coolant, or water. A spark plug boot that is saturated causes arcing to ground.
  3. Inspect the insulator (2) for cracks. All or part of the electrical charge may arc through the crack instead of the electrodes (3, 4).
  4. Inspect for evidence of improper arcing. Measure the gap between the center electrode (4) and the side electrode (3) terminals. Refer to «Ignition System Specifications»(ref-196955-S21360703052005101000000) . An excessively wide electrode gap can prevent correct spark plug operation. Inspect for the correct spark plug torque. Refer to «Ignition System Specifications»(ref-196955-S21360703052005101000000) . Insufficient torque can prevent correct spark plug operation. An over torqued spark plug, causes the insulator (2) to crack. Inspect for signs of tracking that occurred near the insulator tip instead of the center electrode (4). Inspect for a broken or worn side electrode (3). Inspect for a broken, worn, or loose center electrode (4) by shaking the spark plug. A rattling sound indicates internal damage. A loose center electrode (4) reduces the spark intensity. Inspect for bridged electrodes (3, 4). Deposits on the electrodes (3, 4) reduce or eliminates the gap. Inspect for worn or missing platinum pads on the electrodes (3, 4) If equipped. Inspect for excessive fouling.
  5. Inspect the spark plug recess area of the cylinder head for debris. Dirty or damaged threads can cause the spark plug not to seat correctly during installation.

Powertrain

The powertrain has electronic controls to reduce exhaust emissions while maintaining excellent driveability and fuel economy. The engine control module (ECM) is the control center of this system. The ECM monitors numerous engine and vehicle functions. The ECM constantly looks at the information from various sensors and other inputs, and controls the systems that affect vehicle performance and emissions. The ECM also performs the diagnostic tests on various parts of the system. The ECM can recognize operational problems and alert the driver with the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL). When the ECM detects a malfunction, the ECM stores a diagnostic trouble code (DTC). The problem area is identified by the particular DTC that is set. Review the components and wiring diagrams in order to determine which systems are controlled by the ECM.

The following are some of the functions that the ECM controls

  1. The engine fueling
  2. The ignition control (IC)
  3. The knock sensor (KS) system
  4. The evaporative emissions (EVAP) system
  5. The generator
  6. The A/C clutch control
  7. The cooling fan control

Engine Control Module Function

The ECM constantly looks at the information from various sensors and other inputs and controls systems that affect vehicle performance and emissions. The ECM also performs diagnostic tests on various parts of the system. The ECM can recognize operational problems and alert the driver with the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL). When the ECM detects a malfunction, the ECM stores a diagnostic trouble code (DTC). The problem area is identified by the particular DTC that is set. The input and output devices in the ECM include analog-to-digital converters, signal buffers, counters, and output drivers. The output drivers are electronic switches that complete a ground or voltage circuit when turned on. Most ECM controlled components are operated by output drivers. The ECM monitors these driver circuits for proper operation and, in most cases, can set a DTC corresponding to the controlled device if a problem is detected.

Warm-up Cycle

The ECM uses warm-up cycles to run some diagnostics and to clear any diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). A warm-up cycle occurs when the engine coolant temperature increases 22°C (40°F) from the start-up temperature. The engine coolant must also achieve a minimum temperature of 71°C (160°F). The ECM counts the number of warm-up cycles in order to clear the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL). The ECM will clear the DTCs when 40 consecutive warm-up cycles occur without a malfunction.

Fuel Tank

The fuel tank stores the fuel supply. The fuel tank is located in the rear of the vehicle. The fuel tank is held in place by 2 metal straps that attach to the under body of the vehicle. The fuel tank is molded from high-density polyethylene.

Fuel Fill Pipe

The fuel fill pipe has a built-in restrictor in order to prevent refueling with leaded fuel.

Fuel Filler Cap

Note. If a fuel tank filler cap requires replacement, use only a fuel tank filler cap with the same features. Failure to use the correct fuel tank filler cap can result in a serious malfunction of the fuel and EVAP system.

The fuel fill pipe has a tethered fuel filler cap. A torque-limiting device prevents the cap from being over-tightened. To install the cap, turn the cap clockwise until you hear audible clicks. This indicates that the cap is correctly torqued and fully seated. A fuel filler cap that is not fully seated may cause a malfunction in the emission system.

Fuel Level Sensor

The fuel level sensor consists of a float, a wire float arm, and a ceramic resistor card. The position of the float arm indicates the fuel level. The fuel level sensor contains a variable resistor which changes resistance in correspondence with the position of the float arm. The control module sends the fuel level information via the Class 2 circuit to the body control module (BCM). The instrument panel cluster (IPC) receives a class 2 message from the BCM. This information is used for the IPC fuel gage and the low fuel warning indicator, if applicable. The control module also monitors the fuel level input for various diagnostics.

Fuel Pump

The fuel pump is mounted in the fuel sender assembly reservoir. The fuel pump is an electric high-pressure pump. Fuel is pumped to the fuel injection system at a specified flow and pressure. Excess fuel returns to the fuel tank through the fuel return pipe. The fuel pump delivers a constant flow of fuel to the engine even during low fuel conditions and aggressive vehicle maneuvers. The control module controls the electric fuel pump operation through a fuel pump relay. The fuel pump flex pipe acts to dampen the fuel pulses and noise generated by the fuel pump.

Fuel Strainer

The fuel strainer attaches to the lower end of the fuel sender. The fuel strainer is made of woven plastic. The functions of the fuel strainer are to filter contaminants and to wick fuel. The fuel strainer normally requires no maintenance. Fuel stoppage at this point indicates that the fuel tank contains an abnormal amount of sediment or contamination.

Fuel Filter

The fuel filter is located on the fuel feed pipe, between the fuel pump and the fuel injectors. The paper filter element traps particles in the fuel that may damage the fuel injection system. The filter housing is made to withstand maximum fuel system pressure, exposure to fuel additives, and changes in temperature.

Fuel Feed and Return Pipes

The fuel feed pipe carries fuel from the fuel tank to the fuel injection system. The fuel return pipe carries fuel from the fuel filter back to the fuel tank. The fuel pipes consist of 3 sections

  1. The rear fuel pipe assemblies are located from the top of the fuel tank to the fuel filter. The rear fuel pipes are constructed of nylon.
  2. The chassis fuel pipe is located under the vehicle and connects the rear fuel pipes to the engine compartment fuel pipe. The chassis fuel pipe is constructed of steel with a section of rubber hose.
  3. The engine compartment fuel pipe connects the chassis fuel feed pipe to the fuel rail. The engine compartment fuel pipe is constructed of steel.

Nylon Fuel Pipes

CAUTIONIn order to reduce the risk of fire and personal injury observe the following items: Replace all nylon fuel pipes that are nicked, scratched or damaged during installation, do not attempt to repair the sections of the nylon fuel pipes Do not hammer directly on the fuel harness body clips when installing new fuel pipes. Damage to the nylon pipes may result in a fuel leak. Always cover nylon vapor pipes with a wet towel before using a torch near them. Also, never expose the vehicle to temperatures higher than 115°C (239°F) for more than one hour, or more than 90°C (194°F) for any extended period. Apply a few drops of clean engine oil to the male pipe ends before connecting fuel pipe fittings. This will ensure proper reconnection and prevent a possible fuel leak. (During normal operation, the O-rings located in the female connector will swell and may prevent proper reconnection if not lubricated.)

Nylon pipes are constructed to withstand maximum fuel system pressure, exposure to fuel additives, and changes in temperature. The following 3 sizes of nylon pipes are used

  1. 9.53 mm (3/8 in) ID for the fuel feed
  2. 7.94 mm (5/16 in) ID for the fuel return
  3. 12.7 mm (1/2 in) ID for the vent

Heat resistant rubber hose or corrugated plastic conduit protect the sections of the pipes that are exposed to chafing, high temperature, or vibration.

Nylon fuel pipes are somewhat flexible and can be formed around gradual turns under the vehicle. However, if nylon fuel pipes are forced into sharp bends, the pipes kink and restrict the fuel flow. Also, once exposed to fuel, nylon pipes may become stiffer and are more likely to kink if bent too far. Take special care when working on a vehicle with nylon fuel pipes.

Quick-Connect Fittings

Quick-connect fittings provide a simplified means of installing and connecting fuel system components. The fittings consist of a unique female connector and a compatible male pipe end. O-rings, located inside the female connector, provide the fuel seal. Integral locking tabs inside the female connector hold the fittings together.

Fuel Pipe O-rings

O-rings seal the threaded connections in the fuel system. The fuel system O-ring seals are made of special material. Service the O-ring seals with the correct service part.

Fuel Injectors

The fuel injector assembly is a solenoid device controlled by the control module that meters pressurized fuel to a single engine cylinder. The control module energizes the high-impedance, 12 ohm, injector solenoid (4) to open a normally closed ball valve (1). This allows fuel to flow into the top of the injector, past the ball valve, and through a director plate (3) at the injector outlet. The director plate has machined holes that control the fuel flow, generating a spray of finely atomized fuel at the injector tip. Fuel from the injector tip is directed at the intake valve, causing the fuel to become further atomized and vaporized before entering the combustion chamber. This fine atomization improves fuel economy and emissions.

Scheme 45

Scheme 45: Fuel Injectors

Starting Mode

When the ignition is first turned ON, the control module energizes the fuel pump relay for 2 seconds. This allows the fuel pump to build pressure in the fuel system. The control module calculates the air/fuel ratio based on inputs from the engine coolant temperature (ECT), manifold absolute pressure (MAP), and throttle position (TP) sensors. The system stays in starting mode until the engine speed reaches a predetermined RPM.

Clear Flood Mode

If the engine floods, clear the engine by pressing the accelerator pedal down to the floor and then crank the engine. When the TP sensor is at wide open throttle (WOT), the control module reduces the fuel injector pulse width in order to increase the air to fuel ratio. The control module holds this injector rate as long as the throttle stays wide open and the engine speed is below a predetermined RPM. If the throttle is not held wide open, the control module returns to the starting mode.

Run Mode

The run mode has 2 conditions called Open Loop and Closed Loop. When the engine is first started and the engine speed is above a predetermined RPM, the system begins Open Loop operation. The control module ignores the signal from the heated oxygen sensor (HO2S). The control module calculates the air/fuel ratio based on inputs from the ECT, MAP, and TP sensors. The system stays in Open Loop until meeting the following conditions

  1. The HO2S has varying voltage output, showing that the HO2S is hot enough to operate properly.
  2. The ECT sensor is above a specified temperature.
  3. A specific amount of time has elapsed after starting the engine.

Specific values for the above conditions exist for this engine, and are stored in the electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM). The system begins Closed Loop operation after reaching these values. In Closed Loop, the control module calculates the air/fuel ratio, injector ON time, based upon the signal from various sensors, but mainly from the HO2S. This allows the air/fuel ratio to stay very close to 14.7:1.

Acceleration Mode

When the driver pushes on the accelerator pedal, air flow into the cylinders increases rapidly. To prevent possible hesitation, the control module increases the pulse width to the injectors to provide extra fuel during acceleration. This is also known as power enrichment. The control module determines the amount of fuel required based upon the TP, the ECT, the MAP, and the engine speed.

Deceleration Mode

When the driver releases the accelerator pedal, air flow into the engine is reduced. The control module monitors the corresponding changes in the TP and the MAP. The control module shuts OFF fuel completely if the deceleration is very rapid, or for long periods, such as long, closed-throttle coast-down. The fuel shuts OFF in order to prevent damage to the catalytic converters.

Battery Voltage Correction Mode

When the battery voltage is low, the control module compensates for the weak spark delivered by the ignition system in the following ways

  1. Increasing the amount of fuel delivered
  2. Increasing the idle RPM
  3. Increasing the ignition dwell time

Fuel Cutoff Mode

The control module cuts OFF fuel from the fuel injectors when the following conditions are met in order to protect the powertrain from damage and improve driveability

  1. The ignition is OFF. This prevents engine run-on.
  2. The ignition is ON but there is no ignition reference signal. This prevents flooding or backfiring.
  3. The engine speed is too high, above red line.
  4. The vehicle speed is too high, above rated tire speed.
  5. During an extended, high speed, closed throttle coast down-This reduces emissions and increases engine braking.
  6. During extended deceleration, in order to prevent damage to the catalytic converters

Fuel Trim

The control module controls the air/fuel metering system in order to provide the best possible combination of driveability, fuel economy, and emission control. The control module monitors the HO2S signal voltage while in Closed Loop and regulates the fuel delivery by adjusting the pulse width of the injectors based on this signal. The ideal fuel trim values are around 0 percent for both short and long term fuel trim. A positive fuel trim value indicates the control module is adding fuel in order to compensate for a lean condition by increasing the pulse width. A negative fuel trim value indicates that the control module is reducing the amount of fuel in order to compensate for a rich condition by decreasing the pulse width. A change made to the fuel delivery changes the long and short term fuel trim values. The short term fuel trim values change rapidly in response to the HO2S signal voltage. These changes fine tune the engine fueling. The long term fuel trim makes coarse adjustments to fueling in order to re-center and restore control to short term fuel trim. A scan tool can be used to monitor the short and long term fuel trim values. The long term fuel trim diagnostic is based on an average of several of the long term speed load learn cells. The control module selects the cells based on the engine speed and engine load. If the control module detects an excessively lean or rich condition, the control module will set a fuel trim diagnostic trouble code (DTC).

Check Gas Cap Message

If equipped, the powertrain control module (PCM) sends a class 2 message to the driver information center (DIC) illuminating the Check Gas Cap message when any of the following occur

  1. A malfunction in the evaporative emission (EVAP) system and a large leak test fails
  2. A malfunction in the EVAP system and a small leak test fails

EVAP System Components

The evaporative emission (EVAP) system consists of the following components

EVAP Canister

The canister is filled with carbon pellets used to absorb and store fuel vapors. Fuel vapor is stored in the canister until the control module determines that the vapor can be consumed in the normal combustion process.

EVAP Purge Solenoid Valve

The evaporative emission (EVAP) purge solenoid valve controls the flow of vapors from the EVAP system to the intake manifold. The valve opens when commanded ON by the control module. This normally closed valve is pulse width modulated (PWM) by the control module to precisely control the flow of fuel vapor to the engine. The valve will also be opened during some portions of the EVAP testing, allowing engine vacuum to enter the EVAP system.

EVAP Vent Solenoid Valve

The evaporative emission (EVAP) vent solenoid valve controls fresh airflow into the EVAP canister. The valve is normally open. The control module commands the valve ON, closing the valve during some EVAP tests, allowing the system to be tested for leaks.

Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor

The fuel tank pressure (FTP) sensor measures the difference between the pressure or vacuum in the fuel tank and outside air pressure. The control module provides a 5-volt reference and a ground to the FTP sensor. The FTP sensor provides a signal voltage back to the control module that can vary between 0.1-4.9 volts. A high FTP sensor voltage indicates a low fuel tank pressure or vacuum. A low FTP sensor voltage indicates a high fuel tank pressure.

EVAP Service Port

The evaporative emission (EVAP) service port is located in the EVAP purge pipe between the EVAP purge solenoid valve and the EVAP canister. The service port is identified by a green colored cap.

Crankshaft Reluctor Wheel

The crankshaft reluctor wheel is part of the crankshaft. The reluctor wheel has 7 machined notches, 6 of which are equally spaced 60 degrees apart. The 7th notch is spaced 10 degrees after one of the 60-degree notches. The 10-degree notch is used to synchronize the engine position, while the other notches are used to provide cylinder location during a revolution.

Crankshaft Position (CKP) Sensor

The crankshaft position (CKP) sensor is a permanent magnet generator, known as a variable reluctance sensor. The CKP sensor produces an AC voltage of different amplitude and frequency. The frequency depends on the velocity of the crankshaft. The AC voltage output depends on the crankshaft position and the battery voltage. The CKP sensor works in conjunction with a 7X reluctor wheel attached to the crankshaft. The CKP sensor produces 7 pulses for each revolution of the crankshaft. The pulse from the 10-degree notch is known as the sync pulse. The sync pulse is used to synchronize the coil firing sequence with the CKP. The CKP sensor is used for ignition timing, the fuel injector timing, misfire diagnostics and tachometer display. The CKP sensor is connected to the engine control module (ECM) by a signal circuit and a low reference circuit.

Scheme 46

Scheme 46: Ignition Control Module (ICM) and Ignition Coils
CalloutComponent Name
1Ignition Control Module (ICM)
2Compression Sense Ignition (CSI) Pickup
3Not Used
42-3 Coil Control
5Ignition Voltage
61-4 Coil Control
7Not Used
8Interconnect

The engine control module (ECM) supplies a signal on each of the ignition control (IC) timing control circuits to the ignition control module (ICM). The ICM fires the correct ignition coil at the correct time based on the signals. The ICM detects if cylinder 1 or cylinder 3 is on the compression stroke by sensing the secondary voltage and polarity of each side of the ignition coil. The ICM detects this voltage with sensing circuitry integrated into each ignition coil. The higher voltage is on the compressing cylinder. This is called compression sense ignition. The ICM provides a synthesized cam signal to the ECM based on these inputs. The ECM uses the cam signal to synchronize fuel injection.

This system consists of the following circuits

  1. An ignition voltage circuit
  2. A ground circuit
  3. A camshaft position (CMP) sensor signal circuit
  4. An IC timing control circuit for cylinders #1 and #4
  5. An IC timing control B circuit for cylinders #2 and #3

Engine Control Module (ECM)

The ECM controls all ignition system functions, and constantly corrects the spark timing. The ECM monitors information from various sensor inputs that include the following

  1. The throttle position (TP) sensor
  2. The engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor
  3. The intake air temperature (IAT) sensor
  4. The vehicle speed sensor (VSS)
  5. The transmission gear position or range information sensors
  6. The engine knock sensors (KS)

Purpose

The throttle actuator control (TAC) system delivers improved throttle response and greater reliability and eliminates the need for mechanical cable. The TAC system performs the following functions

  1. Accelerator pedal position sensing
  2. Throttle positioning to meet driver and engine demands
  3. Throttle position sensing
  4. Internal diagnostics
  5. Cruise control functions
  6. Manage TAC electrical power consumption

The TAC system includes the following components

  1. The accelerator pedal position (APP) sensors
  2. The throttle body assembly
  3. The engine control module (ECM)

Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) Sensor

The accelerator pedal contains 2 individual APP sensors within the assembly. The APP sensors 1 and 2 are potentiometer type sensors each with 3 circuits

  1. A 5-volt reference circuit
  2. A low reference circuit
  3. A signal circuit

The APP sensors are used to determine the pedal angle. The ECM provides each APP sensor a 5-volt reference circuit and a low reference circuit. The APP sensors provide the ECM with signal voltage proportional to the pedal movement. The APP sensor 1 signal voltage at rest position is near the low reference and increases as the pedal is actuated. The APP sensor 2 signal voltage at rest position is also near the low reference and increases as the pedal is actuated.

Engine Control Module

The ECM is the control center for the TAC system. The ECM determines the drivers intent and then calculates the appropriate throttle response. The ECM achieves throttle positioning by providing a pulse width modulated voltage to the TAC motor.

Normal Mode

During the operation of the TAC system, several modes or functions are considered normal. The following modes may be entered during normal operation

  1. Minimum pedal value-At key-up the ECM updates the learned minimum pedal value.
  2. Minimum TP values-At key-up the ECM updates the learned minimum TP value. In order to learn the minimum TP value, the throttle blade is moved to the closed position.
  3. Ice break mode-If the throttle is not able to reach a predetermined minimum throttle position, the ice break mode is entered. During the ice break mode, the ECM commands the maximum pulse width several times to the throttle actuator motor in the closing direction.
  4. Battery saver mode-After a predetermined time without engine RPM, the ECM commands the battery saver mode. During the battery saver mode, the TAC module removes the voltage from the motor control circuits, which removes the current draw used to maintain the idle position and allows the throttle to return to the spring loaded default position.

Reduced Engine Power Mode

When the ECM detects a condition with the TAC system, the ECM may enter a reduced engine power mode. Reduced engine power may cause one or more of the following conditions

  1. Acceleration limiting-The ECM will continue to use the accelerator pedal for throttle control; however, the vehicle acceleration is limited.
  2. Limited throttle mode-The ECM will continue to use the accelerator pedal for throttle control; however, the maximum throttle opening is limited.
  3. Throttle default mode-The ECM will turn off the throttle actuator motor and the throttle will return to the spring loaded default position.
  4. Forced idle mode-The ECM will perform the following actions: Limit engine speed to idle by positioning the throttle position, or by controlling the fuel and spark if the throttle is turned off. Ignore the accelerator pedal input.
  5. Engine shutdown mode-The ECM will disable fuel and de-energize the throttle actuator.

The knock sensor (KS) system enables the engine control module (ECM) to control the ignition timing for the best possible performance while protecting the engine from potentially damaging levels of detonation. The ECM uses the KS system to test for abnormal engine noise that may indicate detonation, also known as spark knock.