1998 DODGE RAM 1500 power train control module

Knock sensors contain a piezoelectric material
which constantly vibrates and sends an input voltage
(signal) to the PCM while the engine operates. As the
intensity of the crystal's vibration increases, the
knock sensor output voltage also increases.
The voltage signal produced by the knock sensor
increases with the amplitude of vibration. The PCM
receives the knock sensor voltage signal as an input.
If the signal rises above a predetermined level, the
PCM will store that value in memory and retard
ignition timing to reduce engine knock. If the knock
sensor voltage exceeds a preset value, the PCM
retards ignition timing for all cylinders. It is not a
selective cylinder retard.
The PCM ignores knock sensor input during engine
idle conditions. Once the engine speed exceeds a
specified value, knock retard is allowed.
Knock retard uses its own short term and long
term memory program.
Long term memory stores previous detonation
information in its battery-backed RAM. The maxi-
mum authority that long term memory has over tim-
ing retard can be calibrated.
Short term memory is allowed to retard timing up
to a preset amount under all operating conditions (as
long as rpm is above the minimum rpm) except at
Wide Open Throttle (WOT). The PCM, using short
term memory, can respond quickly to retard timing
when engine knock is detected. Short term memory
is lost any time the ignition key is turned off.
NOTE: Over or under tightening the sensor mount-
ing bolts will affect knock sensor performance, pos-
sibly causing improper spark control. Always use
the specified torque when installing the knock sen-
sors.
REMOVAL
3.7L V-6 / 4.7L V-8
The 2 knock sensors are bolted into the cylinder
block under the intake manifold (Fig. 20). or (Fig.
21).
NOTE: The left sensor is identified by an identifica-
tion tag (LEFT). It is also identified by a larger bolt
head. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) must
have and know the correct sensor left/right posi-
tions. Do not mix the sensor locations.
(1) Disconnect knock sensor dual pigtail harness
from engine wiring harness. This connection is made
near rear of engine.
(2) Remove intake manifold. Refer to Engine sec-
tion.(3) Remove sensor mounting bolts (Fig. 20), or
(Fig. 21). Note foam strip on bolt threads. This foam
is used only to retain the bolts to sensors for plant
assembly. It is not used as a sealant. Do not apply
any adhesive, sealant or thread locking compound to
these bolts.
(4) Remove sensors from engine.
5.7L V8
Two sensors are used. Each sensor is bolted into
the outside of cylinder block below the exhaust man-
ifold (Fig. 22).
(1) Raise vehicle.
(2) Disconnect knock sensor electrical connector.
(3) Remove sensor mounting bolt (Fig. 22). Note
foam strip on bolt threads. This foam is used only to
retain the bolts to sensors for plant assembly. It is
not used as a sealant. Do not apply any adhesive,
sealant or thread locking compound to these bolts.
(4) Remove sensor from engine.
INSTALLATION
3.7L V-6 / 4.7L V-8
NOTE: The left sensor is identified by an identifica-
tion tag (LEFT). It is also identified by a larger bolt
head. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) must
have and know the correct sensor left/right posi-
tions. Do not mix the sensor locations.
Fig. 20 KNOCK SENSOR Ð 3.7L V-6
1 - KNOCK SENSORS (2)
2 - MOUNTING BOLTS
DRIGNITION CONTROL 8I - 15
KNOCK SENSOR (Continued)

²Exterior Lighting Fail-safe- In the absence of
a headlamp switch input, the EMIC will turn on the
cluster illumination lamps and provide electronic
headlamp low beam and park lamp request messages
to the Front Control Module (FCM) located on the
Integrated Power Module (IPM) for default exterior
lamp operation. The FCM will also provide default
park lamp and headlamp low beam operation and the
EMIC will turn on the cluster illumination lamps if
there is a failure of the electronic data bus commu-
nication between the EMIC and the FCM.
²Heated Seat Control- The EMIC monitors
inputs from the ignition switch and electronic engine
speed messages from the Powertrain Control Module
(PCM) to control a high side driver output to the
heated seat switch Light Emitting Diode (LED) indi-
cators. This input allows the heated seat switches to
wake up the heated seat module if the switch is actu-
ated. The EMIC will de-energize the heated seat
switch LED indicators, which deactivates the heated
seat system, if the ignition switch is turned to any
position except On or Start, or if the engine speed
message indicates zero. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
HEATED SEATS - DESCRIPTION).
²Interior Lamp Load Shedding- The EMIC
provides a battery saver feature which will automat-
ically turn off all interior lamps that remain on after
a timed interval of about fifteen minutes.
²Interior Lamps - Enhanced Accident
Response- The EMIC monitors inputs from the Air-
bag Control Module (ACM) and the Powertrain Con-
trol Module (PCM) to automatically turn on the
interior lighting after an airbag deployment event
ten seconds after the vehicle speed is zero. The inte-
rior lighting remains illuminated until the key is
removed from the ignition switch lock cylinder, at
which time the interior lighting returns to normal
operation and control. This feature, like all other
enhanced accident response features, is dependent
upon a functional vehicle electrical system following
the vehicle impact event.
²Interior Lighting Control- The EMIC moni-
tors inputs from the interior lighting switch, the door
ajar switches, the cargo lamp switch, the reading
lamp switches, and the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE)
module to provide courtesy lamp control. This
includes support for timed illuminated entry with
theater-style fade-to-off and courtesy illumination
defeat features.
²Lamp Out Indicator Control- The EMIC
monitors electronic lamp outage messages from the
Front Control Module (FCM) located on the Inte-
grated Power Module (IPM) in order to provide lamp
out indicator control for the headlamps (low and high
beams), turn signal lamps, and the brake lamps
(excluding CHMSL).²Panel Lamps Dimming Control- The EMIC
provides a hard wired 12-volt Pulse-Width Modulated
(PWM) output that synchronizes the dimming level
of all hard wired panel lamps dimmer controlled
lamps with that of the cluster illumination lamps.
²Parade Mode- The EMIC provides a parade
mode (also known as funeral mode) that allows all
Vacuum-Fluorescent Display (VFD) units in the vehi-
cle to be illuminated at full (daytime) intensity while
driving during daylight hours with the exterior
lamps turned on.
²Power Locks- The EMIC monitors inputs from
the power lock switches and the Remote Keyless
Entry (RKE) receiver module (optional) to provide
control of the power lock motors through high side
driver outputs to the power lock motors. This
includes support for rolling door locks (also known as
automatic door locks), automatic door unlock, a door
lock inhibit mode, and central locking (with the
optional Vehicle Theft Security System only). (Refer
to 8 - ELECTRICAL/POWER LOCKS - DESCRIP-
TION).
²Remote Keyless Entry- The EMIC supports
the optional Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) system fea-
tures, including support for the RKE Lock, Unlock
(with optional driver-door-only unlock, and unlock-
all-doors), Panic, audible chirp, optical chirp, illumi-
nated entry modes, an RKE programming mode, as
well as optional Vehicle Theft Security System
(VTSS) arming (when the proper VTSS arming con-
ditions are met) and disarming.
²Remote Radio Switch Interface- The EMIC
monitors inputs from the optional remote radio
switches and then provides the appropriate electronic
data bus messages to the radio to select the radio
operating mode, volume control, preset station scan
and station seek features.
²Rolling Door Locks- The EMIC provides sup-
port for the power lock system rolling door locks fea-
ture (also known as automatic door locks). This
feature will automatically lock all unlocked doors
each time the vehicle speed reaches twenty-four kilo-
meters-per-hour (fifteen miles-per-hour). Following
an automatic lock event, if the driver side front door
is opened first after the ignition is turned to the Off
position, all doors will be automatically unlocked.
²Turn Signal & Hazard Warning Lamp Con-
trol- The EMIC provides electronic turn and hazard
lamp request messages to the Front Control Module
(FCM) located on the Integrated Power Module (IPM)
for turn and hazard lamp control. The EMIC also
provides an audible click at one of two rates to emu-
late normal and bulb out turn or hazard flasher oper-
ation based upon electronic lamp outage messages
from the FCM, and provides an audible turn signal
on chime warning if a turn is signalled continuously
8J - 4 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERDR
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Continued)

board hardware, the cluster overlay, 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 individual ser-
vice replacement.
OPERATION
The ElectroMechanical Instrument Cluster (EMIC)
in this model also includes the hardware and soft-
ware necessary to serve as the electronic body control
module and is sometimes referred to as the Cab
Compartment Node or CCN. The following informa-
tion deals primarily with the instrument cluster
functions of this unit. Additional details of the elec-
tronic body control functions of this unit may be
found within the service information for the system
or component that the EMIC controls. For example:
Additional details of the audible warning functions ofthe EMIC are found within the Chime/Buzzer service
information.
The EMIC is designed to allow the vehicle operator
to monitor the conditions of many of the vehicle com-
ponents and operating systems. The gauges and indi-
cators in the EMIC provide valuable information
about the various standard and optional powertrains,
fuel and emissions systems, cooling systems, lighting
systems, safety systems and many other convenience
items. The EMIC is installed in the instrument panel
so that all of these monitors can be easily viewed by
the vehicle operator when driving, while still allow-
ing relative ease of access for service. The micropro-
cessor-based EMIC hardware and software uses
various inputs to control the gauges and indicators
visible on the face of the cluster. Some of these
inputs are hard wired, but most are in the form of
electronic messages that are transmitted by other
electronic modules over the Programmable Communi-
cations Interface (PCI) data bus network. (Refer to 8
Fig. 3 Gauges & Indicators - Gasoline Engine
1 - MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP 13 - ELECTRONIC THROTTLE CONTROL (ETC) INDICATOR
2 - VOLTAGE GAUGE 14 - ENGINE TEMPERATURE GAUGE
3 - LEFT TURN INDICATOR 15 - SECURITY INDICATOR
4 - TACHOMETER 16 - GEAR SELECTOR INDICATOR DISPLAY (INCLUDES
CRUISE & UPSHIFT INDICATORS)
5 - AIRBAG INDICATOR 17 - CHECK GAUGES INDICATOR
6 - HIGH BEAM INDICATOR 18 - BRAKE INDICATOR
7 - SEATBELT INDICATOR 19 - ABS INDICATOR
8 - SPEEDOMETER 20 - ODOMETER/TRIP ODOMETER DISPLAY (INCLUDES
ENGINE HOURS, WASHER FLUID, LAMP OUTAGE, TOW/HAUL
& SERVICE 4x4 INDICATORS)
9 - RIGHT TURN INDICATOR 21 - ODOMETER/TRIP ODOMETER SWITCH BUTTON
10 - OIL PRESSURE GAUGE 22 - FUEL GAUGE
11 - CARGO LAMP INDICATOR 23 - LOW FUEL INDICATOR
12 - DOOR AJAR INDICATOR 24 - TRANSMISSION OVERTEMP INDICATOR
8J - 6 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERDR
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Continued)

INDICATORS
Indicators are located in various positions within
the EMIC and are all connected to the EMIC elec-
tronic circuit board. The cargo lamp indicator, door
ajar indicator, high beam indicator, and turn signal
indicators operate based upon hard wired inputs to
the EMIC. The brake indicator is controlled by PCI
data bus messages from the Controller Antilock
Brake (CAB) as well as by hard wired park brake
switch inputs to the EMIC. The seatbelt indicator is
controlled by the EMIC programming, PCI data bus
messages from the Airbag Control Module (ACM),
and a hard wired seat belt switch input to the EMIC.
The Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is normally
controlled by PCI data bus messages from the Pow-
ertrain Control Module (PCM); however, if the EMIC
loses PCI data bus communication, the EMIC cir-
cuitry will automatically turn the MIL on until PCI
data bus communication is restored. The EMIC uses
PCI data bus messages from the Front Control Mod-
ule (FCM), the PCM, the diesel engine only Engine
Control Module (ECM), the ACM, the CAB, and the
Sentry Key Immobilizer Module (SKIM) to control all
of the remaining indicators.
The various EMIC indicators are controlled by dif-
ferent strategies; some receive fused ignition switch
output from the EMIC circuitry and have a switched
ground, while others are grounded through the EMIC
circuitry and have a switched battery feed. However,
all indicators are completely controlled by the EMIC
microprocessor based upon various hard wired and
electronic message inputs. All indicators are illumi-
nated at a fixed intensity, which is not affected by
the selected illumination intensity of the EMIC gen-
eral illumination lamps.
In addition, certain indicators in this instrument
cluster are automatically configured or self-config-
ured. This feature allows the configurable indicators
to be enabled by the EMIC circuitry for compatibility
with certain optional equipment. The EMIC defaults
for the ABS indicator and airbag indicator are
enabled, and these configuration settings must be
programmatically disabled in the EMIC using a
DRBIIItscan tool for vehicles that do not have this
equipment. The automatically configured or self-con-
figured indicators remain latent in each EMIC at all
times and will be active only when the EMIC
receives the appropriate PCI message inputs for that
optional system or equipment.
The hard wired indicator inputs may be diagnosed
using conventional diagnostic methods. However, the
EMIC circuitry and PCI bus message controlled indi-
cators are diagnosed using the EMIC self-diagnosticactuator test. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/INSTRU-
MENT CLUSTER - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING).
Proper testing of the PCI data bus and the electronic
message inputs to the EMIC that control an indicator
requires the use of a DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the
appropriate diagnostic information. Specific details of
the operation for each indicator may be found else-
where in this service information.
CLUSTER ILLUMINATION
The EMIC has several illumination lamps that are
illuminated when the exterior lighting is turned on
with the headlamp switch. The illumination intensity
of these lamps is adjusted when the interior lighting
thumbwheel on the headlamp switch is rotated (down
to dim, up to brighten) to one of six available minor
detent positions. The EMIC monitors a resistor mul-
tiplexed input from the headlamp switch on a dim-
mer input circuit. In response to that input, the
EMIC electronic circuitry converts a 12-volt input it
receives from a fuse in the Integrated Power Module
(IPM) on a hard wired panel lamps dimmer switch
signal circuit into a 12-volt Pulse Width Modulated
(PWM) output. The EMIC uses this PWM output to
power the cluster illumination lamps and the VFD
units on the EMIC circuit board, then provides a syn-
chronized PWM output on the various hard wired
fused panel lamps dimmer switch signal circuits to
control and synchronize the illumination intensity of
other incandescent illumination lamps in the vehicle.
The cluster illumination lamps are grounded at all
times.
The EMIC also sends electronic dimming level
messages over the PCI data bus to other electronic
modules in the vehicle to control and synchronize the
illumination intensity of their VFD units to that of
the EMIC VFD units. In addition, the thumbwheel
on the headlamp switch has a Parade Mode position
to provide a parade mode. The EMIC monitors the
request for this mode from the headlamp switch,
then sends an electronic dimming level message over
the PCI data bus to illuminate all VFD units in the
vehicle at full (daytime) intensity for easier visibility
when driving in daylight with the exterior lighting
turned on.
The hard wired headlamp switch and EMIC panel
lamps dimmer inputs and outputs may be diagnosed
using conventional diagnostic methods. However,
proper testing of the PWM output of the EMIC and
the electronic dimming level messages sent by the
EMIC over the PCI data bus requires the use of a
DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnos-
tic information.
DRINSTRUMENT CLUSTER 8J - 9
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Continued)

CAUTION: Instrument clusters used in this model
automatically configure themselves for compatibil-
ity with the features and optional equipment in the
vehicle in which they are initially installed. The
instrument cluster is programmed to do this by
embedding the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
and other information critical to proper cluster
operation into electronic memory. This embedded
information is learned through electronic messages
received from other electronic modules in the vehi-
cle over the Programmable Communications Inter-
face (PCI) data bus, and through certain hard wired
inputs received when the cluster is connected to
the vehicle electrically. Once configured, the instru-
ment cluster memory may be irreparably damaged
and certain irreversible configuration errors may
occur if the cluster is connected electrically to
another vehicle; or, if an electronic module from
another vehicle is connected that provides data to
the instrument cluster (including odometer values)
that conflicts with that which was previously
learned and stored. Therefore, the practice of
exchanging (swapping) instrument clusters and
other electronic modules in this vehicle with those
removed from another vehicle must always be
avoided. Failure to observe this caution may result
in instrument cluster damage, which is not reim-
bursable under the terms of the product warranty.
Service replacement instrument clusters are pro-
vided with the correct VIN, and the certified odom-
eter and engine hours values embedded into cluster
memory, but will otherwise be automatically config-
ured for compatibility with the features and optional
equipment in the vehicle in which they are initially
installed.
NOTE: Certain indicators in this instrument cluster
are automatically configured. This feature allows
those indicators to be activated or deactivated for
compatibility with certain optional equipment. If the
problem being diagnosed involves improper illumi-
nation of the cruise indicator, the electronic throttle
control indicator, the service four-wheel drive indi-
cator, the tow/haul indicator, the transmission over-
temp indicator, the upshift indicator, the security
indicator or the gear selector indicator, disconnect
and isolate the battery negative cable. After about
five minutes, reconnect the battery negative cable
and turn the ignition switch to the On position. The
instrument cluster should automatically relearn the
equipment in the vehicle and properly configure the
configurable indicators accordingly.PRELIMINARY DIAGNOSIS
WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
DEATH, ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIRBAGS,
DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYS-
TEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, AIRBAG, SEAT BELT
TENSIONER, IMPACT SENSOR, OR INSTRUMENT
PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE.
DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGA-
TIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES
FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE
BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DIS-
ABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM.
FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS
COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOY-
MENT.
(1) Check the fused B(+) fuse (Fuse 51 - 20
ampere) in the Integrated Power Module (IPM). If
OK, go to Step 2. If not OK, repair the shorted circuit
or component as required and replace the faulty fuse.
(2) Check for battery voltage at the fused B(+) fuse
(Fuse 51 - 20 ampere) in the IPM. If OK, go to Step
3. If not OK, repair the open fused B(+) circuit
between the IPM and the battery as required.
(3) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Remove the instrument cluster. Reconnect the
battery negative cable. Check for battery voltage at
the fused B(+) circuit cavity of the instrument panel
wire harness connector (Connector C1) for the instru-
ment cluster. If OK, go to Step 4. If not OK, repair
the open fused B(+) circuit between the instrument
cluster and the IPM as required.
(4) Check for continuity between the signal ground
circuit cavity of the instrument panel wire harness
connector (Connector C1) for the instrument cluster
and a good ground. There should be continuity. If
OK, refer to ACTUATOR TEST. If not OK, repair the
open ground circuit to ground (G202) as required.
DRINSTRUMENT CLUSTER 8J - 11
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Continued)

ACTUATOR TEST
WARNING: TO AVOID PERSONAL INJURY OR
DEATH, ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIRBAGS,
DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYS-
TEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, AIRBAG, SEAT BELT
TENSIONER, IMPACT SENSOR, OR INSTRUMENT
PANEL COMPONENT DIAGNOSIS OR SERVICE.
DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGA-
TIVE (GROUND) CABLE, THEN WAIT TWO MINUTES
FOR THE SYSTEM CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE
BEFORE PERFORMING FURTHER DIAGNOSIS OR
SERVICE. THIS IS THE ONLY SURE WAY TO DIS-
ABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM.
FAILURE TO TAKE THE PROPER PRECAUTIONS
COULD RESULT IN ACCIDENTAL AIRBAG DEPLOY-
MENT.
The instrument cluster actuator test will put the
instrument cluster into its self-diagnostic mode. In
this mode the instrument cluster can perform a self-
diagnostic test that will confirm that the instrument
cluster circuitry, the gauges, and the indicators are
capable of operating as designed. During the actuator
test the instrument cluster circuitry will position
each of the gauge needles at various calibration
points, illuminate all of the segments in the Vacuum
Fluorescent Display (VFD) units, turn all of the indi-
cators on and off again, display any Diagnostic Trou-
ble Code (DTC) information, and display the number
of ignition key cycles that have occurred since the
DTC was detected. It is suggested that a note pad
and pencil be used to write down any fault informa-
tion that is displayed during the test for reference.
Successful completion of the actuator test will con-
firm that the instrument cluster is operational. How-
ever, there may still be a problem with the PCI data
bus, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the
Engine Control Module (ECM), the Front Control
Module (FCM), the Transmission Control Module
(TCM), the Transfer Case Control Module (TCCM),
the Airbag Control Module (ACM), the Controller
Anti-lock Brake (CAB), or the inputs to one of these
electronic control modules. Use a DRBIIItscan toolto diagnose these components. Refer to the appropri-
ate diagnostic information.
(1) Begin the test with the ignition switch in the
Off position.
(2) Depress the odometer/trip odometer switch but-
ton.
(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 simultaneously
illuminate all of the operational segments in both
VFD units, perform a bulb check of each operational
LED indicator. The VFD segments and LED indica-
tors remain illuminated as each gauge needle is
swept to several calibration points and back. If a
VFD segment or an LED indicator fails to illuminate,
or if a gauge needle fails to sweep through the cali-
bration points and back during this test, the instru-
ment cluster must be replaced. Following these tests,
the actuator test will proceed as described in Step 6.
(6) The text ªC Codeº is displayed in the odometer
VFD for about three seconds. If there is no stored
fault information, the display will show two pairs of
zeroes in the format ª00º ª00º, which indicate that
the display of fault information is done. If there is
stored fault information, two sets of two-digit alpha
and alpha-numeric fault codes will appear in the
odometer display for a three second interval. The
first pair of digits represents a Diagnostic Trouble
Code (DTC), or fault code for the instrument cluster.
The second pair of digits is a counter for the number
of ignition key cycles that have occurred since the
displayed DTC was set. The instrument cluster will
continue to display additional sets of two pairs of dig-
its at three second intervals until all of the stored
codes have been displayed, which is again signaled
by a code of ª00º ª00º. Refer to the Instrument Clus-
ter Failure Message table for a description of each
fault code that the instrument cluster displays. If an
instrument cluster fault is displayed, use a DRBIIIt
scan tool to diagnose the problem. Refer to the appro-
priate diagnostic information.
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER FAILURE MESSAGE
Fault Code Description Correction
01 Airbag warning indicator output circuit shorted. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
02 Airbag warning indicator output circuit open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
03 ABS indicator output circuit shorted. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
04 ABS indicator output circuit open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
05 MIL indicator output circuit shorted. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
06 MIL indicator output circuit open. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
8J - 12 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERDR
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Continued)

cluster programming, a hard wired multiplex input
received by the cluster from the headlamp panel
lamps dimmer switch on the headlamp dimmer
switch mux circuit, and electronic unlock request
messages received from the optional Remote Keyless
Entry (RKE) receiver module. The cargo lamp indica-
tor Light Emitting Diode (LED) is completely con-
trolled by the instrument cluster logic circuit, and
that logic will allow only this indicator to operate
whenever the instrument cluster receives a battery
current input on the fused ignition switch output
(run-start) circuit. Therefore, the LED will always be
off when the ignition switch is in any position except
On or Start. The LED only illuminates when it is
provided a path to ground by the instrument cluster
transistor. The instrument cluster will turn on the
cargo lamp indicator for the following reasons:
²Bulb Test- Each time the ignition switch is
turned to the On position the cargo lamp indicator is
illuminated for about two seconds as a bulb test.
²Cargo Lamp-On Input- Each time the cluster
detects a cargo lamp-on input from the headlamp
switch on the headlamp dimmer switch mux circuit,
the cargo lamp and the cargo lamp indicator will be
illuminated. The cargo lamp and indicator remain
illuminated until the cluster receives a cargo lamp-off
input from the headlamp switch, or until the ignition
switch is turned to the Off position, whichever occurs
first.
²Actuator Test- Each time the cluster is put
through the actuator test, the cargo lamp indicator
will be turned on, then off again during the bulb
check portion of the test to confirm the functionality
of the LED and the cluster control circuitry.
The instrument cluster continually monitors the
headlamp dimmer switch circuit to determine the
proper interior lamps features and panel lamps illu-
mination levels to provide. The cluster then energizes
and de-energizes a low side driver circuit to control
the exterior cargo lamp. Each time the instrument
cluster energizes the cargo lamp driver and the igni-
tion switch is in the On or start positions, the cluster
also turns on the cargo lamp indicator. For further
diagnosis of the cargo lamp indicator or the instru-
ment cluster circuitry that controls the indicator,
(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/INSTRUMENT CLUS-
TER - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING). For proper
diagnosis of the cargo lamp or the headlamp switch
inputs to the instrument cluster that control the
cargo lamp indicator, a DRBIIItscan tool is required.
Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.CHECK GAUGES INDICATOR
DESCRIPTION
A check gauges indicator is standard equipment on
all instrument clusters (Fig. 12). On vehicles
equipped with a gasoline engine, the check gauges
indicator is located near the lower edge of the instru-
ment cluster, between the tachometer and the speed-
ometer. On vehicles equipped with a diesel engine,
the check gauges indicator is located on the left side
of the instrument cluster, to the left of the voltage
gauge. The check gauges indicator consists of a sten-
cil-like cutout of the words ªCHECK GAGESº 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.
A red Light Emitting Diode (LED) behind the cutout
in the opaque layer of the overlay causes the
ªCHECK GAGESº text to appear in red through the
translucent outer layer of the overlay when the indi-
cator is illuminated from behind by the LED, which
is soldered onto the instrument cluster electronic cir-
cuit board. The check gauges indicator is serviced as
a unit with the instrument cluster.
OPERATION
The check gauges indicator gives an indication to
the vehicle operator when certain instrument cluster
gauge readings reflect a condition requiring immedi-
ate attention. This indicator is controlled by a tran-
sistor on the instrument cluster circuit board based
upon cluster programming and electronic messages
received by the cluster from the Powertrain Control
Module (PCM) on vehicles equipped with a gasoline
engine, or from the Engine Control Module (ECM) on
vehicles equipped with a diesel engine over the Pro-
grammable Communications Interface (PCI) data
bus. The check gauges indicator Light Emitting
Diode (LED) is completely controlled by the instru-
ment 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) circuit. Therefore,
the LED will always be off when the ignition switch
is in any position except On or Start. The LED only
illuminates when it is provided a path to ground by
the instrument cluster transistor. The instrument
cluster will turn on the check gauges indicator for
the following reasons:
²Bulb Test- Each time the ignition switch is
turned to the On position the check gauges indicator
is illuminated for about two seconds as a bulb test.
Fig. 12 Check Gauges Indicator
DRINSTRUMENT CLUSTER 8J - 21
CARGO LAMP INDICATOR (Continued)

²Engine Temperature High Message- Each
time the cluster receives a message from the PCM or
ECM indicating the engine coolant temperature of a
gasoline engine is about 122É C (252É F) or higher, or
of a diesel engine is about 112É C (233É F) or higher,
the check gauges indicator will be illuminated. The
indicator remains illuminated until the cluster
receives a message from the PCM or ECM indicating
that the engine coolant temperature of a gasoline
engine is below about 122É C (252É F), or of a diesel
engine is below about 112É C (233É F), or until the
ignition switch is turned to the Off position, which-
ever occurs first.
²Engine Oil Pressure Low Message- Each
time the cluster receives a message from the PCM or
ECM indicating the engine oil pressure is about 41
kPa (6 psi) or lower, the check gauges indicator will
be illuminated. The indicator remains illuminated
until the cluster receives a message from the PCM or
ECM indicating that the engine oil pressure is above
about 41 kPa (6 psi), or until the ignition switch is
turned to the Off position, whichever occurs first.
The cluster will only turn the indicator on in
response to an engine oil pressure low message if the
engine speed is greater than zero.
²System Voltage Low (Charge Fail) Message
- Each time the cluster receives a message from the
PCM or ECM indicating the electrical system voltage
is less than about 11.5 volts (charge fail condition),
the check gauges indicator will be illuminated. The
indicator remains illuminated until the cluster
receives a message from the PCM or ECM indicating
the electrical system voltage is greater than about
12.0 volts (but less than 16.0 volts), or until the igni-
tion switch is turned to the Off position, whichever
occurs first.
²System Voltage High Message- Each time
the cluster receives a message from the PCM or ECM
indicating the electrical system voltage is greater
than about 16.0 volts, the check gauges indicator will
be illuminated. The indicator remains illuminated
until the cluster receives a message from the PCM or
ECM indicating the electrical system voltage is less
than about 15.5 volts (but greater than 11.5 volts), or
until the ignition switch is turned to the Off position,
whichever occurs first.
²Actuator Test- Each time the cluster is put
through the actuator test, the check gauges indicator
will be turned on, then off again during the bulb
check portion of the test to confirm the functionality
of the LED and the cluster control circuitry.
On vehicles with a gasoline engine, the PCM con-
tinually monitors the engine temperature, oil pres-
sure, and electrical system voltage, then sends the
proper messages to the instrument cluster. On vehi-
cles with a diesel engine, the ECM continually mon-itors the engine temperature, oil pressure, and
electrical system voltage, then sends the proper mes-
sages to the instrument cluster. For further diagnosis
of the check gauges indicator or the instrument clus-
ter circuitry that controls the LED, (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/INSTRUMENT CLUSTER - DIAGNO-
SIS AND TESTING). For proper diagnosis of the
PCM, the ECM, the PCI data bus, or the electronic
message inputs to the instrument cluster that control
the check gauges indicator, a DRBIIItscan tool is
required. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic infor-
mation.
CRUISE INDICATOR
DESCRIPTION
A cruise indicator is standard equipment on all
instrument clusters (Fig. 13). However, on vehicles
not equipped with the optional speed control system,
this indicator is electronically disabled. The cruise
indicator consists of the word ªCRUISEº, which
appears in the lower portion of the gear selector indi-
cator Vacuum-Fluorescent Display (VFD) unit. The
VFD is soldered onto the cluster electronic circuit
board and is visible through a window with a smoked
clear lens located on the lower edge of the speedom-
eter gauge dial face of the cluster overlay. The dark
lens over the VFD prevents the indicator from being
clearly visible when it is not illuminated. The word
ªCRUISEº appears in a blue-green color and at the
same lighting level as the gear selector indicator
information when it is illuminated by the instrument
cluster electronic circuit board. The cruise indicator
is serviced as a unit with the VFD in the instrument
cluster.
OPERATION
The cruise indicator gives an indication to the vehi-
cle operator when the speed control system is turned
On, regardless of whether the speed control is
engaged. This indicator is controlled by the instru-
ment cluster circuit board based upon cluster pro-
gramming and electronic messages received by the
cluster from the Powertrain Control Module (PCM)
over the Programmable Communications Interface
(PCI) data bus. The cruise indicator 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 cur-
rent input on the fused ignition switch output (run-
start) circuit. Therefore, the indicator will always be
Fig. 13 Cruise Indicator
8J - 22 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERDR
CHECK GAUGES INDICATOR (Continued)