Malfunction Indicator Light
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 7 other vehicles, including the 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix, 2003 Pontiac Bonneville, 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 2003 Chevrolet Impala, and 2003 Buick Regal. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is located in the instrument panel cluster. The MIL will display as either SERVICE ENGINE SOON or one of 2 icon symbols when commanded ON. See Fig 1. The MIL indicates that an emissions related fault has occurred and vehicle service is required.
The following is a list of the modes of operation for the MIL:
- The MIL illuminates when the ignition is turned to RUN position, with the engine OFF. This is a bulb test to ensure the MIL is able to illuminate.
- The MIL turns OFF after the engine is started if a diagnostic fault is not present.
- The MIL remains illuminated after the engine is started if the PCM detects a fault. A Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) is stored any time the PCM illuminates the MIL due to an emissions related fault. The MIL turns OFF after three consecutive ignition cycles in which a Test Passed has been reported for the diagnostic test that originally caused the MIL to illuminate.
- The MIL flashes if the PCM detects a misfire condition which could damage the catalytic converter.
- When the MIL is illuminated and the engine stalls, the MIL will remain illuminated as long as the ignition is ON.
- When the MIL is not illuminated and the engine stalls, the MIL will not illuminate until the ignition is cycled OFF and then ON.