GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Diagnostic Instructions

    • Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
    • Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
    •  Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

Circuit/System Description

The instrument panel cluster (IPC) displays the engine speed based on the information from the engine control module (ECM). The ECM converts the data from the engine speed sensor to a 2 pulses/engine revolution signal. The ECM sends the engine speed information via high speed GMLAN serial data circuit to the body control module (BCM). The BCM then sends the information via low speed GMLAN to the IPC to order to display the engine speed.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

Instrument Cluster Schematics

Connector End View Reference

Displays and Gages Connector End Views

Description and Operation

Instrument Cluster Description and Operation

Electrical Information Reference

    •  Circuit Testing
    •  Connector Repairs
    •  Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
    •  Wiring Repairs

Scan Tool Reference

    •  Scan Tool Output Controls
    •  Scan Tool Data List
    •  Scan Tool Data Definitions

Circuit/System Testing

Ignition ON, engine ON, verify the scan tool Engine Speed parameter matches the tachometer display.

If the Engine Speed parameter does not match the tachometer display, replace the IPC.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.

Control Module References for IPC replacement, setup, and programming