GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Step

Action

Values

Yes

No

Schematic Reference: Instrument Cluster Schematics

Connector End View Reference: Engine Controls Connector End Views in Engine Controls - 5.3 L, Powertrain Control Module Connector End Views in Engine Controls - 3.8 L or to Inline Harness Connector End Views

1

Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle?

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Go to Step 2

Go to Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle

2

Start the engine.

Does the LOW OIL LEVEL message display in the driver information center (DIC)?

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Go to Step 3

Go to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections

3

  1. Install a scan tool.
  2. With the scan tool, observe the Engine Oil Level Switch parameter in the engine control module (ECM)/powertrain control module (PCM) data lists.

Does the Engine Oil Level Switch parameter display OK?

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Go to Step 11

Go to Step 4

4

  1. Turn the ignition OFF.
  2. Disconnect the engine oil level switch.
  3. Connect a 3-ampere fused jumper wire between the engine oil level switch signal circuit and a good ground.
  4. Start the engine.
  5. With the scan tool, observe the Engine Oil Level Switch parameter.

Does the Engine Oil Level parameter display OK?

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Go to Step 6

Go to Step 5

5

Test the signal circuit of the engine oil level switch for the following:

    • An open
    • A high resistance
    • A short to ground

Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs .

Did you find and correct the condition?

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Go to Step 12

Go to Step 7

6

Test the low reference circuit or the ground circuit of the engine oil level switch for an open or for a high resistance. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs .

Did you find and correct the condition?

 

Go to Step 12

Go to Step 8

7

Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the ECM/PCM. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs .

Did you find and correct the condition?

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Go to Step 12

Go to Step 9

8

Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the engine oil level switch. Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs .

Did you find and correct the condition?

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Go to Step 12

Go to Step 10

9

Replace the ECM/PCM. Refer to Control Module References for replacement, setup, and programming.

Did you complete the replacement?

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Go to Step 12

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10

Replace the engine oil level switch. Refer to Engine Oil Level Sensor and/or Switch Replacement in Engine Mechanical 5.3 L or Engine Oil Level Sensor and/or Switch Replacement in Engine Mechanical 3.8 L.

Did you complete the replacement?

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Go to Step 12

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11

Replace the instrument panel cluster (IPC). Refer to Control Module References for replacement, setup, and programming.

Did you complete the replacement?

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Go to Step 12

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12

Operate the system in order to verify the repair.

Did you correct the condition?

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System OK

Go to Step 2