The L-terminal circuit from the generator is a discrete circuit (a discrete circuit has no splices and only one source and destination) into the PCM. The PCM applies ignition voltage to the generator L-terminal circuit. A small amount of current flows from this circuit through the generator windings to ground to create a magnetic field which starts the generator process. When the generator is at operating speed and producing voltage, a solid state switch for the L-terminal circuit in the generator opens and the PCM detects that the initial startup current flow has stopped.
The PCM expects to detect low voltage on the L-terminal circuit prior to the generator rotating at operating speed and conversely expects the circuit to be at ignition voltage potential when the generator is operational. When the PCM detects a fault (circuit shorted to ground, or circuit shorted to voltage), the Generator Lamp may also illuminate.
The ignition switch in the ON position or the engine is operating.
• | The PCM detects the L terminal as Active with the key ON and the engine not running or the PCM detects the L-terminal as Inactive with the engine running. |
• | All conditions met for 6 seconds. |
• | The PCM stores the DTC information into memory when the diagnostic runs and fails. |
• | The malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) will not illuminate. |
• | The PCM records the operating conditions at the time the diagnostic fails. The PCM stores this information in the Failure Records. |
• | A message is displayed on the Drivers Information Center. |
• | A last test failed, or current DTC, clears when the diagnostic runs and does not fail. |
• | A history DTC will clear after 40 consecutive warm-up cycles, if no failures are reported by this or any other non-emission related diagnostic. |
• | Use a scan tool in order to clear the DTC. |
Important:
• Remove any debris from the PCM connector surfaces before servicing
the PCM. Inspect the PCM connector gaskets when diagnosing/replacing
the module. Ensure that the gaskets are installed correctly. The
gaskets prevent contaminate intrusion into the PCM. • For any test that requires probing the PCM or a component
harness connector, use the Connector Test Adapter Kit J 35616
. Using this kit prevents damage to the harness/component
terminals.
• | Use a scan tool in order to diagnosis the generator circuits. The scan tool should display Inactive for the L terminal and 10-40 percent for the F terminal when the ignition is ON. When the engine is operating, the display should indicate that the L terminal is Active and the F terminal is greater than 5 percent. |
• | A generator fault, such as a shorted output diode, malfunctioning regulator, open or shorted rotor, or open sense lead or battery feed may cause a low battery charge. Refer to Engine Electrical for further information and generator diagnosis. |
The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the Diagnostic Table.
This step verifies the fault is current.
Inspect the circuit for an open or a short to ground if the test lamp did not illuminate.
If the scan tool displays Active, this indicates the circuit is open.
This step tests the F terminal for being shorted to a voltage. With the ignition ON, the F terminal should display between 10-40 percent. If the F terminal displays greater than 40 percent, inspect the circuit for a short to voltage.
When the engine is started the L terminal should be active.
This step is testing the L terminal for an open. If the L terminal displays Active when the circuit is grounded, this indicates the circuit is open.
This step is testing the F terminal circuit for an open or a short to ground. If the F terminal parameter goes to 99 percent the condition is within the generator.
Step | Action | Values | Yes | No |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Did you perform the Powertrain On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check? | -- | ||
Important: The following tests assumes that the generator belt is installed correctly and in good condition. The battery is adequately charged.
Did P0621 set? | -- | |||
3 |
Did DTC P0621 fail this ignition? | -- | Go to Diagnostic Aids | |
Does the test lamp illuminate for both circuits? | -- | Go to Charging System Check in Engine Electrical | ||
Does the scan tool display L terminal as inactive? | -- | |||
Monitor the F terminal parameter with a scan tool in the Engine 3 Data list. Is the F terminal percentage less than the specified value? | 40% | |||
Does the scan tool display L terminal as inactive? | -- | |||
Does the scan tool display L terminal as inactive? | -- | |||
9 |
Does the DMM indicate continuity within the specified range? | 0-2ohms | ||
Did the Generator F terminal parameter change from 0 to 99 percent? | -- | |||
11 | Test the continuity of the F terminal circuit from the generator harness connector to battery ground with the DMM. Does the DMM indicate continuity within the specified range? | 0-10ohms | ||
12 |
Does the DMM indicate continuity within the specified range? | 0-2ohms | ||
13 |
Is the F terminal percentage at the specified value? | 0% | ||
14 |
Does the scan tool display L terminal as inactive? | -- | ||
15 | Repair the open/high resistance in the generator circuit. Refer to Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems. Is the action complete? | -- | -- | |
16 | Repair the short to ground in the generator circuit. Refer to Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems. Is the action complete? | -- | -- | |
17 | Repair the short to voltage on the F terminal circuit. Refer to Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems. Is the action complete? | -- | -- | |
18 |
Is the action complete? | -- | ||
19 |
Important: Program the replacement PCM. Replace the PCM. Refer to Powertrain Control Module Replacement/Programming . Is the action complete? | -- | -- | |
20 |
Did you find and correct the condition? | -- | ||
21 | Replace the generator. Refer to Generator Replacement in Engine Electrical. Is the action complete? | -- | -- | |
22 |
Does the scan tool indicate that this diagnostic ran and passed? | -- | ||
23 | Select the Capture Info option and the Review Info option using the scan tool. Does the scan tool display any DTCs that you have not diagnosed? | -- | Go to the applicable DTC table | System OK |