Information And Message Center: Overview

The message center is an integral part of the IPC that receives and acts upon much of the same information that is input and used to operate the IPC gauges, indicators, and warning indicators. The message center uses both hardwired and the network based inputs to receive information.

The message center functionality is controlled through the message center switch (part of the LH steering wheel switch), which is hardwired to the SCCM through input and return circuits.

Whenever conditions are present that require a warning message, the message center replaces the last selected display with the new warning display. Once the message is reset or cleared, the message center returns to the last selected display. If multiple warnings are present, the message center displays each warning for approximately 4 seconds. Warning messages are also generally associated with other observable outputs of the IPC (gauges, indicators and Reconfigurable Telltale (RTT) indicators). For example, when the BCM detects a low brake fluid condition, the BCM sends the IPC a request to illuminate the brake warning indicator and a request to display the low brake fluid message in the message center. This allows the message center to be a more informative supplement to the IPC gauges and indicators.

Another function of the message center is to display Reconfigurable Telltales (RTTs). Similar to the interaction between the message center and the standard warning indicators, the message center often displays a warning message and the Reconfigurable Telltale (RTT) at the same time. For example, if the PCM detects low engine oil pressure, the PCM sends a request to the IPC to illuminate the low oil pressure Reconfigurable Telltale (RTT) and to display the low oil pressure message in the message center. If multiple warnings are present requiring multiple Reconfigurable Telltale (RTTs), the message center cycles or rotates through the displays in the same manner the message center cycles the text messages.

System Warning Messages 

The system warning messages alert the operator to possible problems or malfunctions in the vehicle operating systems. System warning messages may be stand alone messages but are often associated with another form of indication such as a gauge, an indicator or Reconfigurable Telltale (RTT). The message center displays the last selected feature if there are no additional warning messages. Once a warning message has been displayed, the message must be acknowledged to allow full functionality of the message center. Press the OK button to acknowledge and clear the warning message.

Refer to the Owner's Literature for a complete list of the messages.