GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

DTC Descriptor

DTC C0696: Position Sensor Overcurrent (5-volt supply)

Diagnostic Fault Information

Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.

Circuit/System Description

The electronic suspension control (ESC) module provides a common regulated power supply of about 5 volts to all of the position sensors. The ESC module monitors this power supply for a malfunction that could prevent it from correctly regulating the supply voltage.

Conditions for Running the DTC

Ignition ON.

Conditions for Setting the DTC

    • The ESC module senses suspension position sensor supply voltage under 4.8 volts or over 5.2 volts.
    • The condition is detected for 1 second in 4 consecutive ignition cycles.

Action Taken When the DTC Sets

    • Commands speed dependent damping system and normal force signals to default state.
    • The ESC sends a message to the instrument panel cluster (IPC) to display SERVICE SUSPENSION SYSTEM message.

Conditions for Clearing the DTC

    • A history DTC will clear after 100 consecutive ignition cycles if the condition for the malfunction is no longer present.
    • The ESC module senses the correct sensor supply voltage.
    • The IPC clearing DTC feature.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Suspension Controls Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Suspension Controls Connector End Views

Description and Operation

Electronic Suspension Control Description and Operation

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Circuit Testing
    •  Connector Repairs
    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Wiring Repairs

Scan Tool Reference

    •  Scan Tool Output Controls
    •  Scan Tool Data List
    •  Scan Tool Data Definitions

Circuit/System Verification

Ignition ON, observe the scan tool position sensor data parameter. The reading should be between 4.8-5.2 volts.

Circuit/System Testing

  1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at all 4 suspension position sensors.
  2. Ignition ON, test for 4.8-5.2 volts between the 5-volt reference circuit terminal and ground.
  3. If less than the specified range, test the 5-volt reference circuit for a short to ground or an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the ESC module.
    If greater than the specified range, test the 5-volt reference circuit for a short to voltage. If the circuit tests normal, replace the ESC module.
  4. Reinstall each sensor one at a time while monitoring DTC’s.
  5. If DTC resets, replace the suspect suspension position sensor.
    If greater than the specified range, test the 5-volt reference circuit for a short to voltage. If the circuit tests normal, replace the ESC module.
  6. If all circuits test normal, replace the applicable suspension position sensor.

Component Testing

Dynamic Test

  1. Install a 3-A fused jumper wire between the 5-volt reference terminal and 5 volts. Install a jumper wire between the low reference terminal and ground.
  2. Sweep the suspension position sensor through the entire range while monitoring the voltage between the signal terminal and the low reference terminal. The range should vary between 0.35-4.75 volts without any spikes or dropouts.
  3. If not within the specified range or is erratic, replace the applicable suspension position sensor.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

    •  Electronic Suspension Front Position Sensor Replacement
    •  Electronic Suspension Rear Position Sensor Replacement
    •  Control Module References for ESC replacement, setup, and programming.