Electronic Vehicle Info Center: Description: Notes

The Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) module is located in the overhead console on some models. The EVIC module features a large Vacuum Fluorescent Display (VFD) screen for displaying information, and back-lit push button function switches labeled C/T (compass/temperature), RESET, STEP, and MENU. See Fig 1 or Fig 2.

Fig 1: EVIC Module With Universal Transmitter

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

Fig 2: EVIC Module Without Universal Transmitter

Courtesy of DAIMLERCHRYSLER CORP.

The EVIC module contains a central processing unit and interfaces with other electronic modules in the vehicle over the Programmable Communications Interface (PCI) data bus network. The PCI data bus network allows the sharing of sensor information. This helps to reduce wire harness complexity, reduce internal controller hardware, and reduce component sensor current loads. At the same time, this system provides increased reliability, enhanced diagnostics, and allows the addition of many new feature capabilities.

The EVIC includes the following display options:

• Average Fuel Economy  - provides the average fuel economy the vehicle is achieving.
• Distance To Empty  - provides the approximate distance the vehicle can be driven on the current fuel level.
• Trip Odometer  - shows the accumulated miles since the last trip computer reset.
• Elapsed time  - shows the accumulated ignition-on time since the last trip computer reset.
• Service Mileage  - shows the distance remaining until the next scheduled service interval.
• Individual Tire Pressure  - shows the current individual tire air pressures.
• Blank  - the EVIC computer VF display is turned off.

The EVIC "Menu" push button provides the vehicle operator with a user interface, which allows the selection of several optional customer programmable electronic features to suit individual preferences. Refer to STANDARD PROCEDURE - ELECTRONIC VEHICLE INFORMATION CENTER PROGRAMMING  for more information on the customer programmable feature options.

If the vehicle is equipped with the optional Universal Transmitter, the EVIC will also display messages and an icon indicating when the Universal Transmitter is being trained, which of the three transmitter buttons is transmitting, and when the transceiver is cleared.

Data input for all EVIC functions, including VFD dimming level, is received through PCI data bus messages. The EVIC module uses its internal programming and all of its data inputs to calculate and display the requested data. If the data displayed is incorrect, perform the SELF-DIAGNOSTIC TEST  . If these tests prove inconclusive, the use of a DRB III(R) scan tool and the proper Diagnostic article are recommended for further testing of the EVIC module and the PCI data bus.

The EVIC module cannot be repaired, and is available for service only as a unit. This unit includes the push button switches and the plastic module. If any of these components is faulty or damaged, the complete EVIC module must be replaced. The incandescent bulbs used for EVIC push button back-lighting and the lens are available for service replacement.