Self-Diagnostic - System: Notes

Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) is equipped with a self-diagnostic system, which detects system Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) or abnormalities. When a malfunction occurs, IPC will store a DTC. See IPC DTC DEFINITIONS  table. Malfunctions are recorded as history/intermittent failures or as current failures. Current DTCs indicate IPC has detected a fault which is currently present. A history DTC indicates that BCM has previously detected a malfunction that is not currently present as it is either an intermittent condition or the system is not being currently operated.

Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) can be used to retrieve and clear DTCs. See ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTICS  . A scan tool can be used to retrieve and clear DTCs. The scan tool also has several features that can be used to help locate an intermittent condition. When scan tool is used for system tests, it will display values actually seen or commanded by various systems (i.e., BCM, PCM). This will usually include the following types of information:

• Analog Data Input - Displays analog input seen by system.
• Inputs/Outputs - Displays digital values as seen by system, and provides indication of whether input or output has cycled.
• Special Functions (Output Controls) - Allows for outputs of system to be set at a desired value (ON or OFF). This will only indicate if IPC is sending the appropriate commands, not what action was actually taken.
• Clear Codes - Will erase DTCs for system currently selected (if problem still exists in system, DTC may immediately reset).

IPC is equipped with a 20-character vacuum fluorescent display feature that can display specific warning/status messages. See WARNING/STATUS MESSAGE DISPLAY MESSAGES  table. These warning messages will be displayed in order of priority. If ignition is cycled, IPC will display last message before ignition was cycled. Many messages may coincide with warning indicator lights or DTCs. DTCs should always be diagnosed first before any warning message.

Warning messages will be displayed in all modes except configuration and diagnostic modes. Warning messages will overwrite any other messages that may be displayed. Message will be displayed until system sends a stop broadcasting signal to IPC over serial data line, or it is acknowledged/cleared by pressing RESET button (unless system requests a continuous message display).