Malfunction Indicator Lamp: Testing and Inspection

Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Diagnosis

Diagnostic Instructions

* Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure. Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Overview
* Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
* Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

Circuit/System Description

Ignition voltage is supplied to the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL). The engine control module (ECM) turns the MIL ON by grounding the MIL control circuit.

Circuit/System Verification

Ignition ON, the MIL should turn ON and OFF when commanded with a scan tool.

Circuit/System Testing

1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the instrument panel cluster (IPC).
2. Ignition ON, verify that a test lamp illuminates between the ignition circuit and ground.

• If the test lamp does not illuminate, test the ignition circuit for a short to ground or an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal and the ignition circuit fuse is open, replace the IPC.

3. Connect a test lamp between the control circuit and the ignition circuit.
4. Command the MIL ON and OFF with a scan tool. The test lamp should turn ON and OFF when changing between the commanded states.

• If the test lamp is always ON, test the control circuit for a short to ground. If the circuit tests normal, replace the ECM.
• If the test lamp is always OFF, test the control circuit for a short to voltage or an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the ECM.

5. If all the circuits test normal, replace the IPC.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure. Verification Tests

* Control Module References Programming and Relearning
* Instrument Cluster Replacement