
gauge readings during normal operation that are con-
sistent with customer expectations. However, when
abnormal conditions exist such as high coolant tem-
perature, the algorithm can drive the gauge pointer
to an extreme position and the microprocessor can
sound a chime through the on-board chime tone gen-
erator to provide distinct visual and audible indica-
tions of a problem to the vehicle operator. The
instrument cluster circuitry may also perform chime
service for other electronic modules in the vehicle
based upon electronic chime tone request messages
received over the PCI data bus to provide the vehicle
operator with an audible alert to supplement a visual
indication. One such alert is a door ajar warning
chime, which the EMIC provides by monitoring PCI
bus messages from the Body Control Module (BCM).
The EMIC circuitry operates on battery current
received through a fused B(+) fuse in the Junction
Block (JB) on a non-switched fused B(+) circuit, and
on battery current received through a fused ignition
switch output (run-start) fuse in the JB on a fused
ignition switch output (run-start) circuit. This
arrangement allows the EMIC to provide some fea-
tures regardless of the ignition switch position, while
other features will operate only with the ignition
switch in the On or Start positions. The EMIC
receives a ground input from the BCM as a wake-up
signal in order to provide the ignition-off features.
The EMIC circuitry is grounded through a ground
circuit and take out of the instrument panel wire
harness with an eyelet terminal connector that is
secured by a nut to a ground stud located on the left
instrument panel end bracket.
The EMIC also has a self-diagnostic actuator test
capability, which will test each of the PCI bus mes-
sage-controlled functions of the cluster by lighting
the appropriate indicators (except the airbag indica-
tor), sweeping the gauge needles to several calibra-
tion points across the gauge faces, and stepping the
odometer display sequentially from all ones through
all nines. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/INSTRUMENT
CLUSTER - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING). See the
owner's manual in the vehicle glove box for more
information on the features, use and operation of the
EMIC.
GAUGES All gauges receive battery current
through the EMIC circuitry when the ignition switch
is in the On or Start positions. With the ignition
switch in the Off position battery current is not sup-
plied to any gauges, and the EMIC circuitry is pro-
grammed to move all of the gauge needles back to
the low end of their respective scales. Therefore, the
gauges do not accurately indicate any vehicle condi-
tion unless the ignition switch is in the On or Start
positions. All of the EMIC gauges, except the odome-
ter, are air core magnetic units. Two fixed electro-magnetic coils are located within each gauge. These
coils are wrapped at right angles to each other
around a movable permanent magnet. The movable
magnet is suspended within the coils on one end of a
pivot shaft, while the gauge needle is attached to the
other end of the shaft. One of the coils has a fixed
current flowing through it to maintain a constant
magnetic field strength. Current flow through the
second coil changes, which causes changes in its
magnetic field strength. The current flowing through
the second coil is changed by the EMIC circuitry in
response to messages received over the PCI data bus.
The gauge needle moves as the movable permanent
magnet aligns itself to the changing magnetic fields
created around it by the electromagnets.
The gauges are diagnosed using the EMIC self-di-
agnostic actuator test. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER - DIAGNOSIS AND
TESTING). Proper testing of the PCI data bus and
the electronic data bus message inputs to the EMIC
that control each gauge require the use of a DRBIIIt
scan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic infor-
mation. Specific operation details for each gauge may
be found elsewhere in this service information.
VACUUM-FLUORESCENT DISPLAY The Vacu-
um-Fluorescent Display (VFD) module is soldered to
the EMIC circuit board. The display is active when
the driver door is opened with the ignition switch in
the Off or Accessory positions (Rental Car mode), and
with the ignition switch in the On or Start positions.
The VFD is inactive when the ignition switch is in
the Off or Accessory positions and the driver door is
closed. The illumination intensity of the VFD is con-
trolled by the EMIC circuitry based upon electronic
dimming level messages received from the BCM over
the PCI data bus, and is synchronized with the illu-
mination intensity of other VFDs in the vehicle. The
BCM provides dimming level messages based upon
internal programming and inputs it receives from the
control knob and control ring on the left (lighting)
control stalk of the multi-function switch on the
steering column.
The VFD has several display capabilities including
odometer, trip odometer, and warning messages
whenever the appropriate conditions exist. The VFD
warning messages include:
²ªdoorº- indicating a door is ajar.
²ªgateº- indicating the tailgate is ajar.
²ªglassº- indicating the tailgate glass is ajar.
²ªlowashº- indicating that the washer fluid
level is low.
²ªno busº- indicating there is no PCI data bus
communication detected.
An odometer/trip odometer switch on the EMIC cir-
cuit board is used to control the display modes. This
switch is actuated manually by depressing the odom-
KJINSTRUMENT CLUSTER 8J - 5
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Continued)

fused panel lamps dimmer switch signal circuit. The
cluster illumination lamps are grounded at all times.
In addition, the control ring on the left (lighting)
control stalk of the multi-function switch has a
Parade Mode position to provide a parade mode. The
BCM monitors the request for this mode from the
multi-function switch, then sends an electronic dim-
ming level message to the EMIC over the PCI data
bus to illuminate all VFDs in the vehicle at full
intensity for easier visibility when driving in daylight
with the exterior lighting turned On.
The hard wired cluster illumination lamp circuits
may be diagnosed using conventional diagnostic
methods. However, proper testing of the PWM output
of the EMIC and the electronic dimming level mes-
sages sent by the BCM over the PCI data bus
requires the use of a DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the
appropriate diagnostic information.
CHIME WARNING SERVICE The EMIC is pro-
grammed to provide chime service when certain indi-
cators are illuminated. When the programmed
conditions are met, the EMIC generates an electronic
chime tone through its integral chime tone generator.
In addition, the EMIC is programmed to provide
chime service for other electronic modules in the
vehicle when it receives the proper electronic chime
request messages over the PCI data bus. Upon
receiving the proper chime request message, the
EMIC activates the integral chime tone generator to
provide the audible chime tone to the vehicle opera-
tor. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/CHIME/BUZZER -
OPERATION). Proper testing of the EMIC and the
PCI data bus chime request message functions
requires the use of a DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the
appropriate diagnostic information.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - INSTRUMENT
CLUSTER
If all of the instrument cluster gauges and/or indi-
cators are inoperative, refer to PRELIMINARY
DIAGNOSIS . If an individual gauge or Programma-
ble Communications Interface (PCI) data bus mes-
sage-controlled indicator is inoperative, refer to
ACTUATOR TEST . If an individual hard wired indi-
cator is inoperative, refer to the diagnosis and testing
information for that specific indicator. If the instru-
ment cluster chime service is inoperative, refer to
CHIME SERVICE DIAGNOSIS . If the instrument
cluster illumination lighting is inoperative, refer to
CLUSTER ILLUMINATION DIAGNOSIS . Refer to
the appropriate wiring information. The wiring infor-
mation includes wiring diagrams, proper wire and
connector repair procedures, details of wire harness
routing and retention, connector pin-out information
and location views for the various wire harness con-
nectors, splices and grounds.NOTE: Certain indicators in this instrument cluster
are automatically configured. This feature allows
those indicators to be activated for compatibility
with certain optional equipment. If the problem
being diagnosed involves illumination of the ABS
indicator, the airbag indicator, or the SKIS indicator
when the vehicle does not have this equipment, a
DRBIIITscan tool must be used to disable the erro-
neous indicator(s). Refer to the appropriate diag-
nostic information.
PRELIMINARY DIAGNOSIS
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
SYSTEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, DRIVER AIRBAG,
PASSENGER AIRBAG, SEAT BELT TENSIONER,
FRONT IMPACT SENSORS, SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG,
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.
(1) Check the fused B(+) fuse (Fuse 34 - 15
ampere) in the Junction Block (JB). 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 34 - 15 ampere) in the JB. If OK, go to Step 3.
If not OK, repair the open fused B(+) circuit between
the JB and the Power Distribution Center (PDC) 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 for the instrument cluster. If
OK, go to Step 4. If not OK, repair the open fused
B(+) circuit between the instrument cluster and the
JB as required.
(4) Check the fused ignition switch output (run-
start) fuse (Fuse 13 - 10 ampere) in the JB. If OK, go
to Step 5. If not OK, repair the shorted circuit or
component as required and replace the faulty fuse.
(5) Turn the ignition switch to the On position.
Check for battery voltage at the fused ignition switch
output (run-start) fuse (Fuse 13 - 10 ampere) in the
JB. If OK, go to Step 6. If not OK, repair the open
KJINSTRUMENT CLUSTER 8J - 7
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Continued)

illuminates when it is provided a path to ground by
the instrument cluster transistor. The instrument
cluster will turn on the ABS indicator for the follow-
ing reasons:
²Bulb Test- Each time the ignition switch is
turned to the On position the ABS indicator is illu-
minated by the cluster for about three seconds as a
bulb test.
²ABS Lamp-On Message- Each time the clus-
ter receives a lamp-on message from the CAB, the
ABS indicator will be illuminated. The indicator
remains illuminated until the cluster receives a
lamp-off message from the CAB, or until the ignition
switch is turned to the Off position, whichever occurs
first.
²Communication Error- If the cluster receives
no lamp-on or lamp-off messages from the CAB for
six consecutive seconds, the ABS indicator is illumi-
nated. The indicator remains illuminated until the
cluster receives a valid message from the CAB, or
until the ignition switch is turned to the Off position,
whichever occurs first.
²Actuator Test- Each time the instrument clus-
ter is put through the actuator test, the ABS indica-
tor 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.
²ABS Diagnostic Test- The ABS indicator is
blinked on and off by 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
lamp-on or lamp-off messages to the instrument clus-
ter. If the CAB sends a 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 each store a Diag-
nostic Trouble Code (DTC) for any malfunction it
detects. Each time the ABS indicator fails to light
due to an open or short in the cluster ABS indicator
circuit, 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 diag-
nosis of the antilock brake system, the CAB, the PCI
data bus, or the message inputs to the instrument
cluster that control the ABS indicator, a DRBIIIt
scan tool is required. Refer to the appropriate diag-
nostic information.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 above the fuel gauge and to the
left of the tachometer in the instrument cluster. The
airbag indicator consists of a stencil-like cutout of the
words ªAIR BAGº in the opaque layer of the instru-
ment cluster overlay. The dark outer layer of the
overlay prevents the indicator from being clearly vis-
ible when it is not illuminated. A red Light Emitting
Diode (LED) behind the cutout in the opaque layer of
the overlay causes the ªAIR BAGº text to appear in
red through the translucent outer layer of the over-
lay when it is illuminated from behind by the LED,
which is soldered onto the instrument cluster elec-
tronic circuit board. The airbag indicator is serviced
as a unit with the instrument cluster.
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 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 airbag indicator
for the following reasons:
²Bulb Test- Each time the ignition switch is
turned to the On position the airbag indicator is illu-
minated for about six seconds. The entire six second
bulb test is a function of the ACM.
²ACM Lamp-On Message- Each time the clus-
ter receives a 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 a lamp-off message from the
ACM, whichever is longer.
²Communication Error- If the cluster receives
no airbag messages for six consecutive seconds, the
airbag indicator is illuminated. The indicator
8J - 12 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERKJ
ABS INDICATOR (Continued)

remains illuminated until the cluster receives a sin-
gle 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 a function
of the instrument cluster.
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 lamp-on or lamp-off messages to the instru-
ment cluster. If the ACM sends a lamp-on message
after the bulb test, it indicates that the ACM has
detected a system malfunction and/or that the air-
bags and driver seat belt tensioner may not deploy
when required, or may deploy when not required.
The ACM will store a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC)
for any malfunction it detects. Each time the airbag
indicator fails to illuminate due to an open or short
in the cluster airbag indicator circuit, the cluster
sends a message notifying the ACM of the condition,
then the instrument cluster and the ACM will each
store a DTC. For proper diagnosis of the airbag sys-
tem, the ACM, the PCI data bus, or the message
inputs to the instrument cluster that control the air-
bag indicator, a DRBIIItscan tool is required. Refer
to the appropriate diagnostic information.
BRAKE/PARK BRAKE
INDICATOR
DESCRIPTION
A brake indicator is standard equipment on all
instrument clusters. The brake indicator is located
near the lower edge of the tachometer dial face in the
instrument cluster. The brake indicator consists of
stencil-like cutouts of the word ªBRAKEº and the
International Control and Display Symbol icon for
ªBrake Failureº in the opaque layer of the instru-
ment cluster overlay. The dark outer layer of the
overlay prevents the indicator from being clearly vis-
ible when it is not illuminated. A red Light Emitting
Diode (LED) behind the cutout in the opaque layer of
the overlay causes the ªBRAKEº text and the icon to
appear in red through the translucent outer layer of
the overlay when the indicator is illuminated from
behind by the LED, which is soldered onto the
instrument cluster electronic circuit board. The brake
indicator is serviced as a unit with the instrument
cluster.
OPERATION
The brake indicator gives an indication to the vehi-
cle operator when the parking brake is applied, when
there are certain brake hydraulic system malfunc-
tions as indicated by a low brake hydraulic fluid level
condition, or when the brake fluid level switch is dis-
connected. On models equipped with an optional
Antilock Brake System (ABS), the brake indicator
can also give an indication when certain faults are
detected in the ABS. This indicator is controlled by a
transistor on the instrument cluster electronic circuit
board based upon cluster programming, electronic
messages received by the cluster from the Controller
Antilock Brake (CAB) over the Programmable Com-
munications Interface (PCI) data bus (ABS only), and
hard wired inputs from the park brake switch and
the brake fluid level switch. The brake 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 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 brake indicator
for the following reasons:
²Bulb Test- Each time the ignition switch is
turned to the On position the brake indicator is illu-
minated by the instrument cluster for about three
seconds as a bulb test.
²Brake Lamp-On Message- Each time the
cluster receives a lamp-on message from the CAB,
the brake indicator will be illuminated. The indicator
remains illuminated until the cluster receives a
lamp-off message from the CAB, or until the ignition
switch is turned to the Off position, whichever occurs
first.
²Park Brake Switch Input- Each time the
cluster detects ground on the park brake switch
sense circuit (park brake switch closed = park brake
applied or not fully released) the brake indicator is
illuminated. The indicator remains illuminated until
the park brake switch sense input to the cluster is an
open circuit (park brake switch open = park brake
fully released), or until the ignition switch is turned
to the Off position, whichever occurs first.
²Brake Fluid Level Switch Input- Each time
the cluster detects ground on the red brake warning
indicator driver circuit (brake fluid level switch
closed = brake hydraulic system fluid level low) the
brake indicator is illuminated solid. The indicator
remains illuminated until the status of the red brake
warning indicator driver input to the cluster is off
(brake fluid level switch off = brake hydraulic system
KJINSTRUMENT CLUSTER 8J - 13
AIRBAG INDICATOR (Continued)

fluid level is not low), or until the ignition switch is
turned to the Off position, whichever occurs first.
²Brake Fluid Level Switch Input Fault- The
brake fluid level switch also features a 1 kilohm
diagnostic resistor connected in parallel between the
switch input and output to provide the cluster with
verification that the red brake warning indicator
driver circuit is not open. If the cluster does not see a
proper input on the red brake warning indicator
driver circuit, it will turn on the brake indicator. The
indicator remains illuminated until the red brake
warning indicator driver circuit fault is resolved, or
until the ignition switch is turned to the Off position,
whichever occurs first.
²Actuator Test- Each time the instrument clus-
ter is put through the actuator test, the brake indi-
cator will be turned on, then off again during the
bulb check portion of the test to confirm the function-
ality of the LED and the cluster control circuitry.
The park brake switch on the park brake pedal
mechanism provides a hard wired ground input to
the instrument cluster circuitry through the park
brake switch sense circuit whenever the park brake
is applied or not fully released. The brake fluid level
switch on the brake master cylinder reservoir pro-
vides a hard wired ground input to the instrument
cluster circuitry through the red brake warning indi-
cator driver circuit whenever the fluid level in the
reservoir becomes low. On models equipped with the
optional ABS, the CAB sends the proper lamp-on or
lamp-off messages to the instrument cluster. If the
CAB sends a lamp-on message after the bulb test, it
indicates that the CAB has detected a brake hydrau-
lic system malfunction and/or that the ABS system
has become inoperative. The CAB will store a Diag-
nostic Trouble Code (DTC) for any malfunction it
detects.
For further diagnosis of the brake indicator or the
instrument cluster circuitry that controls the LED,
(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/INSTRUMENT CLUS-
TER - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING). The park brake
switch input to the instrument cluster can be diag-
nosed using conventional diagnostic tools and meth-
ods. For proper diagnosis of the brake fluid level
switch input to the instrument cluster, the antilock
brake system, the CAB, the PCI data bus, or the
electronic message inputs to the instrument cluster
that control the brake indicator, a DRBIIItscan tool
is required. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic infor-
mation.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - BRAKE INDICATOR
The diagnosis found here addresses an inoperative
brake indicator condition. If there are problems with
several indicators in the instrument cluster, (Refer to
8 - ELECTRICAL/INSTRUMENT CLUSTER - DIAG-NOSIS AND TESTING). If the brake indicator stays
on with the ignition switch in the On position and
the park brake released, or comes on while driving,
(Refer to 5 - BRAKES - DIAGNOSIS AND TEST-
ING). If no brake system problem is found, the fol-
lowing procedures will help to locate a shorted or
open circuit, or a faulty park brake switch input.
Refer to the appropriate wiring information. The wir-
ing information includes wiring diagrams, proper
wire and connector repair procedures, details of wire
harness routing and retention, connector pin-out
information and location views for the various wire
harness connectors, splices and grounds.
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
SYSTEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, DRIVER AIRBAG,
PASSENGER AIRBAG, SEAT BELT TENSIONER,
FRONT IMPACT SENSORS, SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG,
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.
INDICATOR ILLUMINATES DURING BULB TEST, BUT DOES
NOT WHEN PARK BRAKE APPLIED
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Disconnect the front body wire harness connec-
tor for the park brake switch from the switch termi-
nal. Apply the parking brake. Check for continuity
between the park brake switch terminal and a good
ground. There should be continuity. If OK, go to Step
2. If not OK, replace the faulty park brake switch.
(2) Disconnect the instrument panel wire harness
connector for the instrument cluster from the cluster
connector receptacle. Check for continuity between
the park brake switch sense circuit cavities of the
front body wire harness connector for the park brake
switch and the instrument panel wire harness con-
nector for the instrument cluster. There should be
continuity. If not OK, repair the open park brake
switch sense circuit between the park brake switch
and the instrument cluster as required.
INDICATOR REMAINS ILLUMINATED - BRAKE SYSTEM
CHECKS OK
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Disconnect the front body wire harness connec-
8J - 14 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERKJ
BRAKE/PARK BRAKE INDICATOR (Continued)

tor for the park brake switch from the switch termi-
nal. Check for continuity between the terminal of the
park brake switch and a good ground. There should
be no continuity with the park brake released, and
continuity with the park brake applied. If OK, go to
Step 2. If not OK, replace the faulty park brake
switch.
(2) Disconnect the instrument panel wire harness
connector for the instrument cluster from the cluster
connector receptacle. Check for continuity between
the park brake switch sense circuit cavity of the front
body wire harness connector for the park brake
switch and a good ground. There should be no conti-
nuity. If not OK, repair the shorted park brake
switch sense circuit between the park brake switch
and the instrument cluster as required.
CHARGING INDICATOR
DESCRIPTION
A charging indicator is standard equipment on all
instrument clusters. The charging indicator is located
above the engine temperature gauge and to the right
of the speedometer in the instrument cluster. The
charging indicator consists of a stencil-like cutout of
the International Control and Display Symbol icon
for ªBattery Charging Conditionº 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 icon to appear
in red through the translucent outer layer of the
overlay when the indicator is illuminated from
behind by the LED, which is soldered onto the
instrument cluster electronic circuit board. The
charging indicator is serviced as a unit with the
instrument cluster.
OPERATION
The charging indicator gives an indication to the
vehicle operator when the electrical system voltage is
too low or too high. This indicator is controlled by a
transistor on the instrument cluster electronic circuit
board based upon the cluster programming and elec-
tronic messages received by the cluster from the
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) over the Program-
mable Communications Interface (PCI) data bus. The
charging 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 bat-
tery current input on the fused ignition switch out-
put (run-start) circuit. Therefore, the LED will
always be off when the ignition switch is in any posi-tion except On or Start. The LED only illuminates
when it is provided a path to ground by the instru-
ment cluster transistor. The instrument cluster will
turn on the charging indicator for the following rea-
sons:
²Bulb Test- Each time the ignition switch is
turned to the On position the charging indicator is
illuminated by the instrument cluster for about three
seconds as a bulb test.
²Charge Fail Message- Each time the cluster
receives a charge fail message from the PCM (system
voltage is nine volts or lower, the charging indicator
will be illuminated. The indicator remains illumi-
nated until the cluster receives a message from the
PCM indicating there is no charge fail condition (sys-
tem voltage is twelve volts or higher, but lower than
sixteen volts), or until the ignition switch is turned to
the Off position, whichever occurs first.
²Voltage High Message- Each time the cluster
receives a message from the PCM indicating a volt-
age high condition (system voltage is sixteen volts or
higher), the lamp will be illuminated. The lamp
remains illuminated until the cluster receives a mes-
sage from the PCM indicating there is no voltage
high condition (system voltage is lower than sixteen
volts, but higher than nine volts), or until the igni-
tion switch is turned to the Off position, whichever
occurs first.
²Actuator Test- Each time the cluster is put
through the actuator test, the charging 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 PCM continually monitors the electrical sys-
tem voltage to control the generator output. The
PCM then sends the proper system voltage messages
to the instrument cluster. If the instrument cluster
turns on the indicator after the bulb test, it may
indicate that the charging system requires service.
For further diagnosis of the charging indicator or the
instrument cluster circuitry that controls the indica-
tor, (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/INSTRUMENT
CLUSTER - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING). For
proper diagnosis of the charging system, the PCI
data bus, or the electronic message inputs to the
instrument cluster that control the charging indica-
tor, a DRBIIItscan tool is required. Refer to the
appropriate diagnostic information.
COOLANT LOW INDICATOR
DESCRIPTION
A coolant low indicator is only found in the instru-
ment clusters of vehicles equipped with an optional
diesel engine. The coolant low indicator is located
KJINSTRUMENT CLUSTER 8J - 15
BRAKE/PARK BRAKE INDICATOR (Continued)

message from the SKIM or until the ignition switch
is turned to the Off position, whichever occurs first.
²Communication Error- If the cluster receives
no SKIS lamp-on or lamp-off messages from the
SKIM for twenty consecutive seconds, the SKIS indi-
cator is illuminated by the instrument cluster. The
indicator remains controlled and illuminated by the
cluster until a valid SKIS lamp-on or lamp-off mes-
sage is received from the SKIM.
²Actuator Test- Each time the cluster is put
through the actuator test, the SKIS 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 SKIM performs a self-test each time the igni-
tion switch is turned to the On position to decide
whether the system is in good operating condition
and whether a valid key is present in the ignition
lock cylinder. The SKIM then sends the proper SKIS
lamp-on or lamp-off messages to the instrument clus-
ter. For further diagnosis of the SKIS indicator or the
instrument cluster circuitry that controls the indica-
tor, (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/INSTRUMENT
CLUSTER - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING). If the
instrument cluster flashes the SKIS indicator upon
ignition On, or turns on the SKIS indicator solid
after the bulb test, it indicates that a SKIS malfunc-
tion has occurred or that the SKIS is inoperative. For
proper diagnosis of the SKIS, the PCI data bus, or
the electronic message inputs to the instrument clus-
ter that control the SKIS indicator, a DRBIIItscan
tool is required. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic
information.
SPEEDOMETER
DESCRIPTION
A speedometer is standard equipment on all instru-
ment clusters. The speedometer is located to the
right of the tachometer in the instrument cluster.
The speedometer consists of a movable gauge needle
or pointer controlled by the instrument cluster cir-
cuitry, and a fixed 255 degree primary scale on the
gauge dial face that reads left-to-right either from 0
to 120 mph, or from 0 to 240 km/h, depending upon
the market for which the vehicle is manufactured.
Most models also have a smaller secondary inner
scale on the gauge dial face that provides the equiv-
alent opposite measurement units from the primary
scale. Text appearing on the cluster overlay just
below the hub of the speedometer needle abbreviates
the unit of measure for the primary scale first (i.e.:
MPH or km/h), followed by the unit of measure for
the secondary scale (i.e.: MPH or km/h). The speed-
ometer graphics are dark blue (primary scale) andlight blue (secondary scale) against a beige field,
making them clearly visible within the instrument
cluster in daylight. When illuminated from behind by
the panel lamps dimmer controlled cluster illumina-
tion lighting with the exterior lamps turned On, both
the dark blue and light blue graphics retain their
blue colors. The orange gauge needle is internally
illuminated. Gauge illumination is provided by
replaceable incandescent bulb and bulb holder units
located on the instrument cluster electronic circuit
board. The speedometer is serviced as a unit with the
instrument cluster.
OPERATION
The speedometer gives an indication to the vehicle
operator of the vehicle road speed. This gauge is con-
trolled by the instrument cluster electronic circuit
board based upon cluster programming and elec-
tronic messages received by the cluster from the
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) over the Program-
mable Communications Interface (PCI) data bus. The
speedometer is an air core magnetic unit that
receives battery current on the instrument cluster
electronic circuit board through the fused ignition
switch output (run-start) circuit whenever the igni-
tion switch is in the On or Start positions. The clus-
ter is programmed to move the gauge needle back to
the low end of the scale after the ignition switch is
turned to the Off position. The instrument cluster
circuitry controls the gauge needle position and pro-
vides the following features:
²Vehicle Speed Message- Each time the clus-
ter receives a vehicle speed message from the PCM it
will calculate the correct vehicle speed reading and
position the gauge needle at that speed position on
the gauge scale. The cluster will receive a new vehi-
cle speed message and reposition the gauge pointer
accordingly about every 86 milliseconds. The gauge
needle will continue to be positioned at the actual
vehicle speed position on the gauge scale until the
ignition switch is turned to the Off position.
²Communication Error- If the cluster fails to
receive a speedometer message, it will hold the gauge
needle at the last indication for about six seconds, or
until the ignition switch is turned to the Off position,
whichever occurs first. If a new speed message is not
received after about six seconds, the gauge needle
will return to the far left (low) end of the scale.
²Actuator Test- Each time the cluster is put
through the actuator test, the gauge needle will be
swept to several calibration points on the gauge scale
in sequence in order to confirm the functionality of
the gauge and the cluster control circuitry.
The PCM continually monitors the vehicle speed
information received from the Body Control Module
(BCM) to determine the vehicle road speed, then
8J - 32 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERKJ
SKIS INDICATOR (Continued)

OPERATION
The washer fluid indicator gives an indication to
the vehicle operator that the fluid level in the washer
reservoir is low. This indicator is controlled by the
instrument cluster electronic circuit board based
upon cluster programming and a hard wired input
received by the cluster from the washer fluid level
switch mounted on the washer reservoir. The washer
fluid indicator function of the Vacuum Fluorescent
Display (VFD) 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 instrument
cluster will turn on the washer fluid indicator for the
following reasons:
²Washer Fluid Level Switch Input- Each time
the cluster detects ground on the low washer fluid
sense circuit (washer fluid level switch closed =
washer fluid level low) the cluster applies an algo-
rithm to confirm that the input is correct and not the
result of fluid sloshing in the washer reservoir. The
cluster tests the status of the circuit about seven mil-
liseconds after ignition On, and about once every sec-
ond thereafter, then uses an internal counter to
count up or down. When the counter accumulates
thirty ground inputs on the circuit, the washer fluid
indicator will be illuminated. If the vehicle is not
moving when the washer fluid level switch input
counter reaches thirty, the VFD will repeatedly and
sequentially cycle its indication in two second inter-
vals with the odometer/trip odometer information,
the low washer fluid warning, and any other active
warnings including: door ajar, gate ajar, and glass
ajar. If the vehicle is moving, or once the cluster of a
non-moving vehicle receives an electronic vehicle
speed message from the Powertrain Control Module
(PCM) indicating a speed greater than zero, the
warning sequence will consist of three complete dis-
play cycles, then revert to only the odometer/trip
odometer display. Once the washer fluid indicator
warning has completed, the washer fluid indicator is
extinguished and will not repeat until the ignition
switch is cycled.
The instrument cluster continually monitors the
washer fluid level switch in the washer reservoir to
determine the status of the washer fluid level. For
further diagnosis of the washer fluid indicator or the
instrument cluster circuitry that controls the indica-
tor, (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/INSTRUMENT
CLUSTER - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING). The
washer fluid level switch and circuits can be diag-
nosed using conventional diagnostic tools and meth-
ods. The washer fluid level switch also features a 3.3kilohm diagnostic resistor connected in parallel
between the switch input and output to provide the
cluster with verification that the low washer fluid
sense circuit is not open or shorted. This input can
be monitored using a DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the
appropriate diagnostic information.
DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING - WASHER FLUID
INDICATOR
The diagnosis found here addresses an inoperative
washer fluid indicator condition. If the problem being
diagnosed is related to indicator accuracy, be certain
to confirm that the problem is with the indicator or
washer fluid level switch input and not with a dam-
aged or empty washer fluid reservoir, or inoperative
instrument cluster indicator control circuitry. Inspect
the washer fluid reservoir for proper fluid level and
signs of damage or distortion that could affect
washer fluid level switch performance and perform
the instrument cluster actuator test before you pro-
ceed with the following diagnosis. If no washer fluid
reservoir or instrument cluster control circuitry prob-
lem is found, the following procedure will help to
locate a short or open in the washer fluid switch
sense circuit. Refer to the appropriate wiring infor-
mation. The wiring information includes wiring dia-
grams, proper wire and connector repair procedures,
details of wire harness routing and retention, connec-
tor pin-out information and location views for the
various wire harness connectors, splices and grounds.
WARNING: ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AIR-
BAGS, DISABLE THE SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT
SYSTEM BEFORE ATTEMPTING ANY STEERING
WHEEL, STEERING COLUMN, DRIVER AIRBAG,
PASSENGER AIRBAG, SEAT BELT TENSIONER,
FRONT IMPACT SENSORS, SIDE CURTAIN AIRBAG,
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.
INDICATOR DOES NOT ILLUMINATE WITH WASHER
RESERVOIR EMPTY
(1) Disconnect and isolate the battery negative
cable. Disconnect the headlamp and dash wire har-
ness connector for the washer fluid level switch from
the washer fluid level switch connector receptacle.
Check for continuity between the ground circuit cav-
8J - 36 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERKJ
WASHER FLUID INDICATOR (Continued)