GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Before beginning service of the heater and ventilation system, perform the following functional test. Ensure that the thermostat is fully open in order obtain accurate test results.

  1. Start the engine.
  2. Warm the engine to normal operating temperature.
  3. Touch the upper radiator hose. A hot radiator hose indicates an open thermostat.
  4. Set the fresh/recirc lever to the FRESH position.
  5. Set the temperature lever to the coldest position.
  6. Set the blower speed to HIGH.
  7. Systematically move the mode lever through the various positions.
  8. Note which vents expel air at each setting.
  9. Verify that the air flow corresponds with the setting of the mode lever.
  10. Verify that the air entering the passenger compartment is approximately the same temperature as the air outside of the vehicle.
  11. Set the temperature lever to the hottest position.
  12. Verify that the air entering the passenger compartment is much warmer than the air outside of the vehicle.
  13. Systematically, move the mode lever to each position.
  14. Note which vents expel air at each setting.
  15. Gradually move the blower speed from HIGH to LOW.
  16. Verify that the force of the air flow at each setting corresponds with the setting.
  17. Verify that the blower noise decreases at each successive setting.

Evaluation

If the functional test indicates improper air delivery or a failure to shift modes when the mode lever settings are changed, refer to the corresponding symptom tables for diagnosis:

    •  Heating Insufficient
    •  Defrosting Insufficient
    •  Heat Excessive
    •  Heat Excessive
    •  High or Low Temperature Control Effort
    • Noise Diagnosis or Noise Diagnosis -- Blower Motor