Test R: Hot Coolant Temp Message Always On

NOTE: Perform this test only if Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) indicator is on and no Powertrain Control Module (PCM) DTCs have set. If any PCM DTCs have set, perform PCM self-diagnostics. See appropriate SELF-DIAGNOSTICS article in ENGINE PERFORMANCE.

If engine cooling diagnostic system check has not been performed, perform ENGINE COOLING DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM CHECK under SELF-DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM. If engine cooling diagnostic system check has been performed, go to next step.
Observe message center. Start engine. If HOT COOLANT TEMP message illuminates, go to next step. If HOT COOLANT TEMP message does not illuminate, check for an intermittent or poor connections in related circuits. See DIAGNOSING INTERMITTENTS .
Turn ignition switch to OFF position. Connect scan tool to Data Link Connector (DLC). DLC is located below left side of instrument panel, to right of steering column. See Figure . Turn ignition switch to RUN position, with engine off. Using scan tool, observe engine coolant temperature parameter in Powertrain Control Module (PCM) data list. If scan tool does not indicate that engine coolant temperature is hot, go to next step. If scan tool indicates that engine coolant temperature is hot, diagnose cooling system problem.
Replace IPC. See INSTRUMENT PANEL CLUSTER under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION. After repair, go to next step.
Operate system to verify repair. If system does not operate properly, go to step 2 . If system operates properly, system is okay.