Auto start JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE 2002 WJ / 2.G User Guide

OPERATION
The starting system components form two separate
circuits. A high-amperage feed circuit that feeds the
starter motor between 150 and 350 amperes, and a
low-amperage control circuit that operates on less
than 20 amperes. The high-amperage feed circuit
components include the battery, the battery cables,
the contact disc portion of the starter solenoid, and
the starter motor. The low-amperage control circuit
components include the ignition switch, the park/
neutral position switch, the starter relay, the electro-
magnetic windings of the starter solenoid, and the
connecting wire harness components.
Battery voltage is supplied through the low-amper-
age control circuit to the coil battery terminal of the
starter relay when the ignition switch is turned to
the momentary Start position. The park/neutral posi-
tion switch is installed in series between the starter
relay coil ground terminal and ground. This normally
open switch prevents the starter relay from being
energized and the starter motor from operating
unless the automatic transmission gear selector is in
the Neutral or Park positions.
When the starter relay coil is energized, the nor-
mally open relay contacts close. The relay contacts
connect the relay common feed terminal to the relay
normally open terminal. The closed relay contacts
energize the starter solenoid coil windings.
The energized solenoid pull-in coil pulls in the sole-
noid plunger. The solenoid plunger pulls the shift
lever in the starter motor. This engages the starter
overrunning clutch and pinion gear with the starter
ring gear on the automatic transmission torque con-
verter drive plate.
As the solenoid plunger reaches the end of its
travel, the solenoid contact disc completes the high-
amperage starter feed circuit and energizes the sole-
noid plunger hold-in coil. Current now flows between
the solenoid battery terminal and the starter motor,
energizing the starter.Once the engine starts, the overrunning clutch pro-
tects the starter motor from damage by allowing the
starter pinion gear to spin faster than the pinion
shaft. When the driver releases the ignition switch to
the On position, the starter relay coil is de-energized.
This causes the relay contacts to open. When the
relay contacts open, the starter solenoid plunger
hold-in coil is de-energized.
When the solenoid plunger hold-in coil is de-ener-
gized, the solenoid plunger return spring returns the
plunger to its relaxed position. This causes the con-
tact disc to open the starter feed circuit, and the shift
lever to disengage the overrunning clutch and pinion
gear from the starter ring gear.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - STARTING
SYSTEM
The battery, starting, and charging systems oper-
ate with one another, and must be tested as a com-
plete system. In order for the vehicle to start and
charge properly, all of the components involved in
these systems must perform within specifications.
Group 8A covers the Battery, Group 8B covers the
Starting Systems, and Group 8C covers the Charging
System. We have separated these systems to make it
easier to locate the information you are seeking
within this Service Manual. However, when attempt-
ing to diagnose any of these systems, it is important
that you keep their interdependency in mind.
The diagnostic procedures used in these groups
include the most basic conventional diagnostic meth-
ods, to the more sophisticated On-Board Diagnostics
(OBD) built into the Powertrain Control Module
(PCM). Use of an induction-type milliampere amme-
ter, volt/ohmmeter, battery charger, carbon pile rheo-
stat (load tester), and 12-volt test lamp may be
required.
All OBD-sensed systems are monitored by the
PCM. Each monitored circuit is assigned a Diagnos-
tic Trouble Code (DTC). The PCM will store a DTC in
electronic memory for any failure it detects. Refer to
On-Board Diagnostic Test For Charging System
in the Diagnosis and Testing section of Group 8C -
Charging System for more information.
8F - 30 STARTINGWJ
STARTING (Continued)

INSPECTION
For complete circuit diagrams, refer toStarting
Systemin the Contents of Group 8W - Wiring Dia-
grams. Before removing any unit from the starting
system for repair or diagnosis, perform the following
inspections:
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, REFER TO GROUP 8M - PASSIVE
RESTRAINT SYSTEMS BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY
STEERING WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, OR
INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRE-
CAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIR-
BAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
²Battery- Visually inspect the battery for indi-
cations of physical damage and loose or corroded
cable connections. Determine the state-of-charge and
cranking capacity of the battery. Charge or replace
the battery, if required. Refer toBatteryin the
proper section of Group 8A - Battery for complete ser-
vice information for the battery.
²Ignition Switch- Visually inspect the ignition
switch for indications of physical damage and loose
or corroded wire harness connections. Refer toIgni-
tion Switch and Key Lock Cylinderin the proper
section of Group 8D - Ignition System for complete
service information for the ignition switch.
²Park/Neutral Position Switch- Visually
inspect the park/neutral position switch for indica-
tions of physical damage and loose or corroded wire
harness connections. Refer toPark/Neutral Posi-
tion Switchin the proper section of Group 21 -
Transmission for complete service information for the
park/neutral position switch.
²Starter Relay- Visually inspect the starter
relay for indications of physical damage and loose or
corroded wire harness connections.
²Starter Motor- Visually inspect the starter
motor for indications of physical damage and loose or
corroded wire harness connections.
²Starter Solenoid- Visually inspect the starter
solenoid for indications of physical damage and loose
or corroded wire harness connections.
²Wiring- Visually inspect the wire harnesses for
damage. Repair or replace any faulty wiring, as
required. Refer to the proper section ofGroup 8W -
Wiring Diagramsfor complete service information
and circuit diagrams for the starting system wiring
components.TESTING
COLD CRANKING TEST
For complete circuit diagrams, refer toStarting
Systemin the Contents of Group 8W - Wiring Dia-
grams. The battery must be fully-charged and load-
tested before proceeding. Refer toBatteryin the
Diagnosis and Testing section of Group 8A - Battery
for the procedures.
(1) Connect a suitable volt-ampere tester to the
battery terminals (Fig. 1). See the instructions pro-
vided by the manufacturer of the volt-ampere tester
being used.
(2) Fully engage the parking brake.
(3) Place the automatic transmission gearshift
selector lever in the Park position.
(4) Verify that all lamps and accessories are
turned off.
(5) To prevent the engine from starting, remove
the Automatic ShutDown (ASD) relay. The ASD relay
is located in the Power Distribution Center (PDC), in
the engine compartment. Refer to the fuse and relay
layout label affixed to the underside of the PDC cover
for ASD relay identification and location.
(6) Rotate and hold the ignition switch in the Start
position. Note the cranking voltage and current
(amperage) draw readings shown on the volt-ampere
tester.
(a) If the voltage reads below 9.6 volts, refer to
Starter Motorin the Diagnosis and Testing sec-
tion of this group. If the starter motor is OK, refer
toEngine Diagnosisin the Diagnosis and Testing
section of Group 9 - Engine for further testing of
the engine. If the starter motor is not OK, replace
the faulty starter motor.
Fig. 1 Volts-Amps Tester Connections - Typical
1 - POSITIVE CLAMP
2 - NEGATIVE CLAMP
3 - INDUCTION AMMETER CLAMP
8F - 32 STARTINGWJ
STARTING (Continued)

(b) If the voltage reads above 9.6 volts and the
current (amperage) draw reads below specifica-
tions, refer toFeed Circuit Testin this section.
(c) If the voltage reads 12.5 volts or greater and
the starter motor does not turn, refer toControl
Circuit Testingin this section.
(d) If the voltage reads 12.5 volts or greater and
the starter motor turns very slowly, refer toFeed
Circuit Testin this section.
NOTE: A cold engine will increase the starter cur-
rent (amperage) draw reading, and reduce the bat-
tery voltage reading.
FEED CIRCUIT TEST
The starter feed circuit test (voltage drop method)
will determine if there is excessive resistance in the
high-amperage feed circuit. For complete circuit dia-
grams, refer toStarting Systemin the Contents of
Group 8W - Wiring Diagrams.
When performing these tests, it is important to
remember that the voltage drop is giving an indica-
tion of the resistance between the two points at
which the voltmeter probes are attached.
Example:When testing the resistance of the bat-
tery positive cable, touch the voltmeter leads to the
battery positive cable clamp and the cable connector
at the starter solenoid. If you probe the battery pos-
itive terminal post and the cable connector at the
starter solenoid, you are reading the combined volt-
age drop in the battery positive cable clamp-to-termi-
nal post connection and the battery positive cable.
The following operation will require a voltmeter
accurate to 1/10 (0.10) volt. Before performing the
tests, be certain that the following procedures are
accomplished:
²Battery is fully-charged and load-tested. Refer to
Batteryin the Diagnosis and Testing section of
Group 8A - Battery for the procedures.
²Fully engage the parking brake.
²Place the automatic transmission gearshift selec-
tor lever in the Park position.
²
Verify that all lamps and accessories are turned off.
²To prevent the engine from starting, remove the
Automatic ShutDown (ASD) relay. The ASD relay is
located in the Power Distribution Center (PDC), in
the engine compartment. Refer to the fuse and relay
layout label affixed to the underside of the PDC cover
for ASD relay identification and location.
(1) Connect the positive lead of the voltmeter to
the battery negative terminal post. Connect the neg-
ative lead of the voltmeter to the battery negative
cable clamp (Fig. 2). Rotate and hold the ignition
switch in the Start position. Observe the voltmeter. If
voltage is detected, correct the poor contact between
the cable clamp and the terminal post.(2) Connect the positive lead of the voltmeter to
the battery positive terminal post. Connect the nega-
tive lead of the voltmeter to the battery positive cable
clamp (Fig. 3). Rotate and hold the ignition switch in
the Start position. Observe the voltmeter. If voltage
is detected, correct the poor contact between the
cable clamp and the terminal post.
(3) Connect the voltmeter to measure between the
battery positive terminal post and the starter sole-
noid battery terminal stud (Fig. 4). Rotate and hold
the ignition switch in the Start position. Observe the
voltmeter. If the reading is above 0.2 volt, clean and
tighten the battery cable connection at the solenoid.
Fig. 2 Test Battery Negative Connection Resistance
- Typical
1 - VOLTMETER
2 - BATTERY
Fig. 3 Test Battery Positive Connection Resistance -
Typical
1 - VOLTMETER
2 - BATTERY
WJSTARTING 8F - 33
STARTING (Continued)

SPECIFICATIONS
TORQUE - STARTER
DESCRIPTION N-m Ft. Lbs. In. Lbs.
Stater Motor (B+) Terminal
(Diesel)27 20
Stater Motor (B+) Terminal
(Except Diesel)11.3 100
Starter Motor Retaining Bolts
(Diesel)27 20
Starter Motor Retaining Bolt
(Forward Facing 4.0L)41 30
Starter Motor Retaining Bolt
(Forward Facing 4.7L)54 40
Starter Motor Retaining Bolt
(Rearward Facing 4.7L)54 40
STARTER MOTOR - GAS POWERED
Starter Motor and Solenoid
Manufacturer Mitsubishi
Engine Application 4.0L/4.7L
Power Rating 1.4 Kilowatt (1.9 Horsepower)
Voltage12 Volts
Number of Fields 4
Number of Poles 4
Number of Brushes 4
Drive Type Planetary Gear Reduction
Free Running Test Voltage 11.2 Volts
Free Running Test Maximum Amperage Draw 90 Amperes
Free Running Test Minimum Speed 2400 rpm
Solenoid Closing Maximum Voltage Required 7.8 Volts
*Cranking Amperage Draw Test 160 Amperes
*Test at operating temperature. Cold engine, tight (new) engine, or heavy oil will increase starter amperage draw.
STARTER MOTOR
DESCRIPTION
The starter motors used for both the 4.0L and the
4.7L engines available in this model are very similar,
but are not interchangeable. Both starter motors are
mounted with two screws to the automatic transmis-
sion torque converter housing and are located on the
right side of the engine.
Each of these starter motors incorporates several
of the same features to create a reliable, efficient,compact, lightweight and powerful unit. The electric
motors of both starters feature four electromagnetic
field coils wound around four pole shoes, and four
brushes contact the motor commutator. Both starter
motors are rated at 1.4 kilowatts (about 1.9 horse-
power) output at 12 volts.
Both of these starter motors are serviced only as a
unit with their starter solenoids, and cannot be
repaired. If either component is faulty or damaged,
the entire starter motor and starter solenoid unit
must be replaced.
WJSTARTING 8F - 35
STARTING (Continued)

REMOVAL
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Raise and support the vehicle.
(3) Remove the lower (forward facing) mounting
screw securing the starter motor to the automatic
transmission torque converter housing (Fig. 9) or
(Fig. 10) .
(4) While supporting the starter motor with one
hand, use the other hand to remove the upper (rear
facing) mounting screw securing the starter motor to
the automatic transmission torque converter housing.
(5) Lower the starter motor from the front of the
automatic transmission torque converter housing far
enough to access and remove the nut that secures
the battery cable eyelet to the solenoid battery termi-
nal (Fig. 11) or (Fig. 12) . Always support the starter
motor during this process, do not let the starter
motor hang from the wire harness.
(6) Remove the battery cable eyelet from the sole-
noid battery terminal. Always support the starter
motor during this process, do not let the starter
motor hang from the wire harness.
(7) Disconnect the solenoid terminal wire harness
connector from the connector receptacle on the
starter solenoid. Always support the starter motor
during this process, do not let the starter motor hang
from the wire harness.
Fig. 9 Starter Motor Remove/Install - 4.0L Engine
1 - SCREW
2 - STARTER MOTOR
3 - SCREW
Fig. 10 Starter Motor Remove/Install - 4.7L Engine
1 - SCREW
2 - STARTER MOTOR
3 - SCREW
Fig. 11 Starter Wire Harness Remove/Install - 4.0L
Engine
1 - BATTERY, STARTER AND GENERATOR WIRE HARNESS
2 - GROUND EYELET
3 - SCREW
4 - NUT
5 - SOLENOID TERMINAL CONNECTOR
6 - SOLENOID BATTERY TERMINAL EYELET
7 - RETAINERS
WJSTARTING 8F - 37
STARTER MOTOR (Continued)

(8) Remove the starter motor from the engine com-
partment.
INSTALLATION
(1) Position the starter motor in the engine com-
partment.
(2) Reconnect the solenoid terminal wire harness
connector to the connector receptacle on the starter
solenoid. Always support the starter motor during
this process, do not let the starter motor hang from
the wire harness.
(3) Install the battery cable eyelet onto the sole-
noid battery terminal. Always support the starter
motor during this process, do not let the starter
motor hang from the wire harness.
(4) Install and tighten the nut that secures the
battery cable eyelet to the solenoid battery terminal.
Tighten the nut to 11.3 N´m (100 in. lbs.). Always
support the starter motor during this process, do not
let the starter motor hang from the wire harness.
(5) Position the starter motor to the front of the
automatic transmission torque converter housing and
loosely install both the upper and lower mounting
screws.
(6) Tighten the lower (forward facing) starter
motor mounting screw. On 4.0L engines, tighten the
screw to 41 N´m (30 ft. lbs.). On 4.7L engines, tighten
the screw to 54 N´m (40 ft. lbs.).(7) Tighten the upper (rearward facing) starter
mounting screw. Tighten the screw to 54 N´m (40 ft.
lbs.).
(8) Lower the vehicle.
(9) Reconnect the battery negative cable.
STARTER MOTOR RELAY
DESCRIPTION
The starter relay is an electromechanical device
that switches battery current to the pull-in coil of the
starter solenoid when the ignition switch is turned to
the Start position. The starter relay is located in the
Power Distribution Center (PDC), in the engine com-
partment. See the fuse and relay layout label affixed
to the inside surface of the PDC cover for starter
relay identification and location.
The starter relay is a International Standards
Organization (ISO) micro-relay. Relays conforming to
the ISO specifications have common physical dimen-
sions, current capacities, terminal patterns, and ter-
minal functions. The ISO micro-relay terminal
functions are the same as a conventional ISO relay.
However, the ISO micro-relay terminal pattern (or
footprint) is different, the current capacity is lower,
and the physical dimensions are smaller than those
of the conventional ISO relay.
The starter relay cannot be repaired or adjusted
and, if faulty or damaged, it must be replaced.
OPERATION
The ISO relay consists of an electromagnetic coil, a
resistor or diode, and three (two fixed and one mov-
able) electrical contacts. The movable (common feed)
relay contact is held against one of the fixed contacts
(normally closed) by spring pressure. When the elec-
tromagnetic coil is energized, it draws the movable
contact away from the normally closed fixed contact,
and holds it against the other (normally open) fixed
contact.
When the electromagnetic coil is de-energized,
spring pressure returns the movable contact to the
normally closed position. The resistor or diode is con-
nected in parallel with the electromagnetic coil in the
relay, and helps to dissipate voltage spikes that are
produced when the coil is de-energized.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - STARTER RELAY
The starter relay (Fig. 13) is located in the Power
Distribution Center (PDC), in the engine compart-
ment. Refer to the fuse and relay layout label affixed
to the underside of the PDC cover for starter relay
identification and location. For complete circuit dia-
grams, refer toStarting Systemin the Contents of
Group 8W - Wiring Diagrams.
Fig. 12 Starter Wire Harness Remove/Install - 4.7L
Engine
1 - SOLENOID BATTERY TERMINAL EYELET
2 - NUT
3 - SOLENOID TERMINAL CONNECTOR
4 - BATTERY STARTER AND GENERATOR WIRE HARNESS
5 - RETAINERS
8F - 38 STARTINGWJ
STARTER MOTOR (Continued)

EMIC also uses several hard wired inputs in order to
perform its many functions. The EMIC module incor-
porates a blue-green digital Vacuum Fluorescent Dis-
play (VFD) for displaying odometer and trip
odometer information.
The EMIC houses six analog gauges and has pro-
visions for up to twenty indicators (Fig. 2). The
EMIC includes the following analog gauges:
²Coolant Temperature Gauge
²Fuel Gauge
²Oil Pressure Gauge
²Speedometer
²Tachometer
²Voltage Gauge
Some of the EMIC indicators are automatically
configured when the EMIC is connected to the vehi-
cle electrical system for compatibility with certain
optional equipment or equipment required for regula-
tory purposes in certain markets. While each EMIC
may have provisions for indicators to support every
available option, the configurable indicators will not
be functional in a vehicle that does not have the
equipment that an indicator supports. The EMIC
includes provisions for the following indicators (Fig.
2):
²Airbag Indicator (with Airbags only)
²Antilock Brake System (ABS) Indicator
²Brake Indicator
²Check Gauges Indicator
²Coolant Low Indicator (with Diesel Engine
only)
²Cruise Indicator
²Four-Wheel Drive Part Time Indicator
(with Selec-Trac NVG-242 Transfer Case only)
²Front Fog Lamp Indicator (with Front Fog
Lamps only)
²High Beam Indicator
²Low Fuel Indicator
²Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL)
²Overdrive-Off Indicator (except Diesel
Engine)
²Rear Fog Lamp Indicator (with Rear Fog
Lamps only)
²Seatbelt Indicator
²Sentry Key Immobilizer System (SKIS)
Indicator
²Transmission Overtemp Indicator (except
Diesel Engine)²Turn Signal (Right and Left) Indicators
²Wait-To-Start Indicator (with Diesel Engine
only)
²Water-In-Fuel Indicator (with Diesel Engine
only)
Many indicators in the EMIC are illuminated by a
dedicated Light Emitting Diode (LED) that is sol-
dered onto the EMIC electronic circuit board. The
LEDs are not available for service replacement and,
if damaged or faulty, the entire EMIC must be
replaced. Base cluster illumination is accomplished
by dimmable incandescent back lighting, which illu-
minates the gauges for visibility when the exterior
lighting is turned on. Premium cluster illumination
is accomplished by a dimmable electro-luminescent
lamp that is serviced only as a unit with the EMIC.
Each of the incandescent bulbs is secured by an inte-
gral bulb holder to the electronic circuit board from
the back of the cluster housing. The incandescent
bulb/bulb holder units are available for service
replacement.
Hard wired circuitry connects the EMIC to the
electrical system of the vehicle. These hard wired cir-
cuits are integral to several wire harnesses, which
are routed throughout the vehicle and retained by
many different methods. These circuits may be con-
nected to each other, to the vehicle electrical system
and to the EMIC through the use of a combination of
soldered splices, splice block connectors, and many
different types of wire harness terminal connectors
and insulators. Refer to the appropriate wiring infor-
mation. The wiring information includes wiring dia-
grams, proper wire and connector repair procedures,
further details on wire harness routing and reten-
tion, as well as pin-out and location views for the
various wire harness connectors, splices and grounds.
The EMIC modules for this model are serviced only
as complete units. The EMIC module cannot be
adjusted or repaired. If a gauge, an LED indicator,
the VFD, the electronic circuit board, the circuit
board hardware, the cluster overlay, the electro-lumi-
nescent lamp (premium model only) or the EMIC
housing are damaged or faulty, the entire EMIC mod-
ule must be replaced. The cluster lens, hood and
mask unit and the individual incandescent lamp
bulbs with holders are available for service replace-
ment.
WJINSTRUMENT CLUSTER 8J - 3
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Continued)

(3) While still holding the odometer/trip odometer
switch button depressed, turn the ignition switch to
the On position, but do not start the engine.
(4) Release the odometer/trip odometer switch but-
ton.
(5) The instrument cluster will automatically
begin the actuator test sequence, as follows:
(a) The cluster will turn on, then off again each
of the PCI data bus message controlled indicators
(except Airbag) to confirm the functionality of the
indicator and the cluster control circuitry:
(b) The cluster will sweep the needles for each of
the gauges from minimum to maximum and back
to minimum to confirm the functionality of the
gauge and the cluster control circuitry:
(c) Only on models with a premium version of
the cluster, the cluster will illuminate the electro-
luminescent lamp and turn it off again to confirm
the functionality of the lamp and the cluster con-
trol circuitry.
(d) The cluster will sequentially step the odome-
ter/trip odometer VFD display from all zeros
(000000) through all nines (999999) to confirm the
functionality of all VFD segments and their control
circuitry, then display the software version number,
followed by ªDONEº.
(6) The actuator test is now completed. The instru-
ment cluster will automatically exit the self-diagnos-
tic mode and return to normal operation at the
completion of the test, if the ignition switch is turned
to the Off position during the test, or if a vehicle
speed message indicating that the vehicle is moving
is received from the PCM over the PCI data bus dur-
ing the test.
(7) Go back to Step 1 to repeat the test, if
required.
CLUSTER ILLUMINATION DIAGNOSIS
On models equipped with a base version of the
instrument cluster, the EMIC has several incandes-
cent illumination lamps that are illuminated when-
ever the exterior lighting is turned On. If the
problem being diagnosed is a single inoperative illu-
mination lamp, be certain that the bulb and bulb
holder unit are properly installed in the instrument
cluster electronic circuit board. If no installation
problems are found replace the faulty bulb and bulb
holder unit. If all of the cluster illumination lamps
are inoperative, the most reliable, efficient, and accu-
rate means to diagnose the cluster illumination func-tion of the instrument cluster requires the use of a
DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnos-
tic information.
REMOVAL
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
SYSTEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, DRIVER AIRBAG,
PASSENGER AIRBAG, SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG,
FRONT IMPACT SENSOR, SIDE IMPACT SENSOR,
OR INSTRUMENT PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS
OR SERVICE. DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE
BATTERY NEGATIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN
WAIT TWO MINUTES FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACI-
TOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE PERFORMING FUR-
THER DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY
SURE WAY TO DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL
RESTRAINT SYSTEM. FAILURE TO TAKE THE
PROPER PRECAUTIONS COULD RESULT IN ACCI-
DENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT AND POSSIBLE
PERSONAL INJURY.
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE
PREMIUM INSTRUMENT CLUSTER, THE CLUSTER
CIRCUITRY PROVIDES AN ALTERNATING CURRENT
TO SUPPLY POWER TO THE ELECTRO-LUMINES-
CENT ILLUMINATION LAMP THROUGH A PIGTAIL
WIRE AND CONNECTOR THAT IS ACCESSIBLE AT
THE BACK OF THE CLUSTER HOUSING. USE
PROPER PRECAUTIONS WHEN HANDLING THIS
UNIT DURING DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE TO AVOID
ELECTRICAL SHOCK AND POSSIBLE PERSONAL
INJURY.
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable.
(2) Remove the cluster bezel from the instrument
panel. (Refer to 23 - BODY/INSTRUMENT PANEL/
CLUSTER BEZEL - REMOVAL).
(3) Remove the two screws that secure the upper
mounting tabs of the instrument cluster to the
underside of the instrument cluster hood formation of
the instrument panel top pad.
(4) Remove the two screws that secure the lower
mounting tabs of the instrument cluster to the
instrument panel structural duct.
WJINSTRUMENT CLUSTER 8J - 9
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Continued)

tor will be turned on for the duration of the test to
confirm the functionality of the bulb and the cluster
control circuitry.
²ABS Diagnostic Test- The ABS indicator is
blinked on and off based upon lamp-on and lamp-off
messages from the CAB during the performance of
the ABS diagnostic tests.
The CAB continually monitors the ABS circuits
and sensors to decide whether the system is in good
operating condition. The CAB then sends the proper
ABS indicator lamp-on or lamp-off messages to the
instrument cluster. If the ABS indicator fails to light
during the bulb test, replace the bulb with a known
good unit. If the CAB sends an ABS indicator
lamp-on message after the bulb test, it indicates that
the CAB has detected a system malfunction and/or
that the ABS system has become inoperative. The
CAB will store a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) for
any malfunction it detects. Each time the ABS indi-
cator fails to illuminate due to an open or short in
the cluster ABS indicator circuit or bulb, the cluster
sends a message notifying the CAB of the condition,
then the instrument cluster and the CAB will each
store a DTC. For proper diagnosis of the anti-lock
brake system, the CAB, the PCI data bus, or the
electronic message inputs to the instrument cluster
that control the ABS indicator, a DRBIIItscan tool is
required. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic infor-
mation.
AIRBAG INDICATOR
DESCRIPTION
An airbag indicator is standard equipment on all
instrument clusters. However, the instrument cluster
is programmed to automatically enable this indicator
only on vehicles equipped with the airbag system,
which is not available in some markets. The airbag
indicator is located on the upper edge of the instru-
ment cluster, between the speedometer and the
tachometer. The airbag indicator consists of the
words ªAIR BAGº imprinted on a red lens. The lens
is located behind a cutout in the opaque layer of the
instrument cluster overlay. The dark outer layer of
the overlay prevents the indicator from being clearly
visible when it is not illuminated. The ªAIR BAGº
text appears silhouetted against a red field through
the translucent outer layer of the overlay when the
indicator is illuminated from behind by a Light Emit-
ting Diode (LED), which is soldered onto the instru-
ment cluster electronic circuit board. The airbag
indicator lens is serviced as a unit with the instru-
ment cluster lens, hood and mask unit.
OPERATION
The airbag indicator gives an indication to the
vehicle operator when the airbag system is faulty or
inoperative. The airbag indicator is controlled by a
transistor on the instrument cluster circuit board
based upon cluster programming and electronic mes-
sages received by the cluster from the Airbag Control
Module (ACM) over the Programmable Communica-
tions Interface (PCI) data bus. The airbag indicator
Light Emitting Diode (LED) is completely controlled
by the instrument cluster logic circuit, and that logic
will only allow this indicator to operate when the
instrument cluster receives a battery current input
on the fused ignition switch output (run-start) cir-
cuit. Therefore, the indicator will always be off when
the ignition switch is in any position except On or
Start. The LED only illuminates when it is switched
to ground by the instrument cluster transistor. The
instrument cluster will turn on the airbag indicator
for the following reasons:
²Bulb Test- Each time the ignition switch is
turned to the On position the ACM sends an elec-
tronic airbag indicator lamp-on message to the clus-
ter which will illuminate the airbag indicator for
about six seconds as a bulb test. The entire six sec-
ond bulb test is a function of the ACM.
²Airbag Indicator Lamp-On Message- Each
time the cluster receives an airbag indicator lamp-on
message from the ACM, the airbag indicator will be
illuminated. The indicator remains illuminated for
about twelve seconds or until the cluster receives an
airbag indicator lamp-off message from the ACM,
whichever is longer.
²Communication Error- If the cluster receives
no airbag indicator lamp-on or lamp-off messages for
six consecutive seconds, the airbag indicator is illu-
minated. The indicator remains illuminated until the
cluster receives a single valid airbag indicator lamp-
off message from the ACM.
²Actuator Test- Each time the cluster is put
through the actuator test, the airbag indicator will be
turned on, then off again during the bulb check por-
tion of the test to confirm the functionality of the
LED and the cluster control circuitry. The actuator
test illumination of the airbag indicator is also a
function of the ACM.
The ACM continually monitors the airbag system
circuits and sensors to decide whether the system is
in good operating condition. The ACM then sends the
proper airbag indicator lamp-on or lamp-off messages
to the instrument cluster. If the ACM sends an air-
bag indicator lamp-on message after the bulb test, it
indicates that the ACM has detected a system mal-
function. Such a malfunction could mean that the
airbags may not deploy when required, or may
deploy when not required. The ACM will store a
8J - 14 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERWJ
ABS INDICATOR (Continued)

instrument cluster logic circuit, and that logic will
only allow this indicator to operate when the instru-
ment cluster receives a battery current input on the
fused ignition switch output (run-start) circuit.
Therefore, the indicator will always be off when the
ignition switch is in any position except On or Start.
The bulb only illuminates when it is provided a path
to ground by the instrument cluster transistor. The
instrument cluster will turn on the MIL for the fol-
lowing reasons:
²Bulb Test- Each time the ignition switch is
turned to the On position the MIL is illuminated for
about three seconds as a bulb test.
²MIL Lamp-On Message- Each time the clus-
ter receives a MIL lamp-on message from the PCM,
the indicator will be illuminated. The indicator can
be flashed on and off, or illuminated solid, as dic-
tated by the PCM message. For some DTC's, if a
problem does not recur, the PCM will send a MIL
lamp-off message automatically. Other DTC's may
require that a fault be repaired and the PCM be
reset before a MIL lamp-off message will be sent. For
more information on the PCM and the DTC set and
reset parameters, (Refer to 25 - EMISSIONS CON-
TROL - OPERATION).
²Communication Error- If the cluster receives
no MIL lamp-on or lamp-off messages from the PCM
for twenty consecutive seconds, the MIL is illumi-
nated by the instrument cluster. The indicator
remains controlled and illuminated by the cluster
until a valid MIL lamp-on or lamp-off message is
received from the PCM.
²Actuator Test- Each time the cluster is put
through the actuator test, the MIL will be turned on
for the duration of the test to confirm the functional-
ity of the bulb and the cluster control circuitry.
The PCM continually monitors each of the many
fuel and emissions system circuits and sensors to
decide whether the system is in good operating con-
dition. The PCM then sends the proper MIL lamp-on
or lamp-off messages to the instrument cluster. If the
MIL fails to light during the bulb test, replace the
bulb with a known good unit. For further diagnosis of
the MIL or the instrument cluster circuitry that con-
trols the indicator, (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/IN-
STRUMENT CLUSTER - DIAGNOSIS AND
TESTING). If the instrument cluster turns on the
MIL after the bulb test, it may indicate that a mal-
function has occurred and that the fuel and emis-
sions system may require service. For proper
diagnosis of the fuel and emissions systems, the
PCM, the PCI data bus, or the electronic message
inputs to the instrument cluster that control the
MIL, a DRBIIItscan tool is required. Refer to the
appropriate diagnostic information.ODOMETER
DESCRIPTION
An odometer and trip odometer are standard
equipment in all instrument clusters. The odometer
and trip odometer information are displayed in a
common electronic, blue-green Vacuum-Fluorescent
Display (VFD), which is located in the lower edge of
the speedometer dial face in the instrument cluster
and, when illuminated, is visible through a small
window cutout in the gauge overlay. However, the
odometer and trip odometer information are not dis-
played simultaneously. The trip odometer reset
switch on the instrument cluster electronic circuit
board toggles the display between odometer and trip
odometer modes by depressing the odometer/trip
odometer switch button that extends through the
lower edge of the cluster lens to the right of the
speedometer.
All odometer and trip odometer distance informa-
tion is stored in the instrument cluster memory. This
distance information can be increased when the
proper inputs are provided to the instrument cluster,
but the distance information cannot be decreased.
The odometer can display values up to 999,999 kilo-
meters (999,999 miles). The odometer will not roll
over, but will latch at the maximum value. The trip
odometer can display values up to 999.9 kilometers
(999.9 miles) before it rolls over to zero. The odome-
ter display does not have a decimal point and will
not show values less than a full unit (kilometer or
mile), the trip odometer display does have a decimal
point and will show tenths of a unit (kilometer or
mile).
The unit of measure for the odometer and trip
odometer display is not shown in the VFD. The unit
of measure for the odometer/trip odometer is selected
at the time that the instrument cluster is manufac-
tured, and cannot be changed. If the instrument clus-
ter has a kilometers-per-hour primary speedometer
scale, the odometer/trip odometer registers kilome-
ters; and, if the cluster features a miles-per-hour pri-
mary speedometer scale, the odometer/trip odometer
registers miles.
During daylight hours (exterior lamps Off) the
VFD is illuminated at full brightness for clear visibil-
ity. At night (exterior lamps are On) the instrument
cluster converts an electronic dimming level message
received from the Body Control Module (BCM) over
the Programmable Communications Interface (PCI)
data bus to a digital dimming level signal for control-
ling the lighting level of the VFD. However, a
ªParadeº mode position of the panel lamps dimmer
control ring on the control stalk of the left (lighting)
multi-function switch allows the VFD to be illumi-
8J - 24 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERWJ
MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) (Continued)