Refer to Engine Controls Schematic
Cooling Fans
.
Circuit Description
Output driver modules (ODMs) are used by the powertrain control module (PCM) to turn on many of the current-driven devices that are needed to control various engine and transaxle functions. Each ODM is capable of controlling up to 7 separate outputs by applying ground to the device which the PCM is commanding ON. ODMs have the capability of diagnosing each output circuit individually. DTC P0481 set indicates an improper voltage level has been detected on the on the output circuit which controls the Mode Control and #2 Fan Control Relays.
Conditions for Running the DTC
| • | The ignition is ON. |
| • | The ignition voltage is between 9.0-18.0 volts. |
Conditions for Setting the DTC
| • | An improper voltage level has been detected on the output circuit which controls the high speed fans. |
| • | The above condition is present for at least 30 seconds. |
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
| • | The PCM will illuminate the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) during the second consecutive trip in which the diagnostic test has been run and failed. |
| • | The PCM will store conditions which were present when the DTC set as Freeze Frame/Failure Records data. |
Conditions for Clearing the MIL/DTC
| • | The PCM will turn OFF the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) during the third consecutive trip in which the diagnostic has run and passed. |
| • | The history DTC will clear after 40 consecutive warm-up cycles have occurred without a malfunction. |
| • | The DTC can be cleared by using a scan tool. |
Diagnostic Aids
Inspect for the following conditions:
Many situations may lead to an intermittent condition. Perform each inspection or test as directed.
Important: : Remove any debris from the connector surfaces before servicing a component. Inspect the connector gaskets when diagnosing or replacing a component. Ensure that the gaskets are installed correctly. The gaskets prevent contaminate intrusion.
| • | Loose terminal connection |
| - | Use a corresponding mating terminal to test for proper tension. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections , and to Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems for diagnosis and repair. |
| - | Inspect the harness connectors for backed out terminals, improper mating, broken locks, improperly formed or damaged terminals, and faulty terminal to wire connection. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections , and to Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems for diagnosis and repair. |
| • | Damaged harness--Inspect the wiring harness for damage. If the harness inspection does not reveal a problem, observe the display on the scan tool while moving connectors and wiring harnesses related to the sensor. A change in the scan tool display may indicate the location of the fault. Refer to Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems for diagnosis and repair. |
| • | Inspect the powertrain control module (PCM) and the engine grounds for clean and secure connections. Refer to Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems for diagnosis and repair. |
If the condition is determined to be intermittent, reviewing the Snapshot or Freeze Frame/Failure Records may be useful in determining when the DTC or condition was identified.
Test Description
The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table:
-
The Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check prompts you to complete some basic tests and store the Freeze Frame and Failure Records data on the scan tool.
-
Listen for a click when the relay operates. Command both the ON and OFF states. Repeat the commands as necessary.
-
This step tests for voltage at the coil feed side of the relays.
-
This step verifies that the PCM is providing ground to the relays.
-
This step tests if ground is constantly being applied to the relays.
-
The PCM utilizes an Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM). When the PCM is replaced, the new PCM must be programmed.
Step | Action | Values | Yes | No |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Did you perform the Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check? | -- | Go to Step 2 | ||
|
Important : If you cannot determine if the relays are responding to the command, observe the fans. When FAN 2 is commanded ON, both fans should operate in low speed and after several seconds both fans should switch to high speed. If the fans are not operating properly continue with step 3 of this table.
Do both relays turn ON after several seconds and OFF with each command? | -- | Go to Diagnostic Aids | Go to Step 3 | |
Does the test lamp illuminate for both circuits? | -- | Go to Step 4 | Go to Step 10 | |
Does the test lamp turn ON after several seconds and OFF with each command for both relays? | -- | Go to Step 8 | Go to Step 5 | |
Does the test lamp remain illuminated with each command when probing either feed circuit? | -- | Go to Step 7 | Go to Step 6 | |
6 | Test the control circuits of each relay for a short to voltage or an open. Refer to Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems. Did you find and correct the condition? | -- | Go to Step 13 | Go to Step 9 |
7 | Test the control circuits of each relay for a short to ground. Refer to Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems. Did you find and correct the condition? | -- | Go to Step 13 | Go to Step 9 |
8 | Inspect for faulty connections at the relays. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems. Did you find and correct the condition? | -- | Go to Step 13 | Go to Step 11 |
9 | Inspect for faulty connections at the PCM. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs in Wiring Systems. Did you find and correct the condition? | -- | Go to Step 13 | Go to Step 12 |
10 | Repair the feed circuit of the affected relay, or replace the under hood Junction Block as necessary. Refer to Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems. Did you complete the repair? | -- | Go to Step 13 | -- |
11 | Replace the affected relay. Did you complete the repair? | -- | Go to Step 13 | -- |
|
Important: The replacement PCM must be programmed. Replace the PCM. Refer to Powertrain Control Module Replacement/Programming . Did you complete the replacement? | -- | Go to Step 13 | -- | |
13 |
Does the DTC reset? | -- | Go to Step 2 | System OK |
