Instrument Cluster Description and Operation: Tachometer
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2008 Buick LaCrosse and 2008 Buick Allure. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The instrument panel cluster (IPC) displays the engine speed based on serial data message from the PCM/ECM. The tachometer defaults to 0 rpm if the IPC detects a loss of serial data communication with the PCM/ECM.