Description & Operation

NOTE: Cavalier can be equipped with CNG. Information on vehicles equipped with CNG is not available from manufacturer.

WARNING: Deactivate air bag system before performing any service operation. For 2001, see 2001 AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS article. For 2002, see 2002 AIR BAG RESTRAINT SYSTEMS article. Do not apply electrical power to any component on steering column without first deactivating air bag system. Air bag may deploy.

The Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) receives battery positive voltage from the instrument panel fuse block CLSTR fuse at terminal "G". The IPC receives ignition voltage from instrument panel fuse block BCM/CLU fuse at terminal "J". The IPC receives ground at terminals "A" and "H" (on 2002 model, "H" is the only ground for the IPC). The IPC receives all class 2 serial data messages on at terminals "L" and "K". The IPC uses the class 2 serial data messages to illuminate various indicators and control gauges. The THEFT SYSTEM and SERVICE ENGINE SOON indicators are the only discrete inputs to the IPC. Body Control Module (BCM) controls THEFT SYSTEM indicator and sends a signal to terminal "E" at IPC. Powertrain Control Module (PCM) controls SERVICE ENGINE SOON indicator and sends a signal to terminal "D" at IPC.

The IPC includes an analog speedometer, temperature gauge, oil pressure gauge, tachometer and fuel gauge. Instrument cluster warning indicators include: AIR BAG, Electronic Traction Control System (ETS OFF), LOW TRAC, low coolant, seat belt, check engine, BRAKE, Anti-Lock Brake Systems (ABS), high beam, Daytime Running Lights (DRL), volts, oil pressure, CHECK GAUGES, turn signals and THEFT SYSTEM. Some manual transaxle models may be equipped with an upshift indicator light.

On models equipped with Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) engines, a fuel gauge selector switch and fuel indicator light are located to left of steering column. Fuel gauge selector switch allows operator to check fuel level of either fuel tank-regardless of which fuel system is operating. Fuel gauge will display non-operating fuel system fuel level for about ten seconds after fuel gauge selector switch has been depressed. Depress fuel gauge select switch 30 seconds after vehicle has come to a stop to avoid inaccurate gauge displays. Fuel Indicator Light (FIL) is located within fuel gauge selector switch button. FIL indicates which fuel system is in operation. FIL illuminates ONLY when engine is operating on gasoline. FIL also illuminates for several seconds during start-up as a bulb check.