
OPERATION
The ElectroMechanical Instrument Cluster (EMIC)
is designed to allow the vehicle operator to monitor
the conditions of many of the vehicle components and
operating systems. The gauges and indicators in the
EMIC provide valuable information about the various
standard and optional powertrains, fuel and emis-
sions 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 allowing
relative ease of access for service. The microproces-sor-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 mes-
sages that are transmitted by other electronic mod-
ules over the Programmable Communications
Interface (PCI) data bus network. (Refer to 8 -
ELECTRICAL/ELECTRONIC CONTROL MOD-
ULES/COMMUNICATION - OPERATION).
The EMIC microprocessor smooths the input data
using algorithms to provide gauge readings that are
accurate, stable and responsive to operating condi-
tions. These algorithms are designed to provide
Fig. 2 EMIC Gauges & Indicators
1 - SKIS INDICATOR 16 - REAR FOG LAMP INDICATOR
2 - AIRBAG INDICATOR 17 - ABS INDICATOR
3 - LOW FUEL INDICATOR 18 - CHARGING INDICATOR
4 - WAIT-TO-START INDICATOR 19 - WATER-IN-FUEL INDICATOR
5 - OVERDRIVE-OFF INDICATOR 20 - ENGINE TEMPERATURE GAUGE
6 - COOLANT LOW INDICATOR 21 - ODOMETER/TRIP ODOMETER SWITCH BUTTON
7 - SEATBELT INDICATOR 22 - ODOMETER/TRIP ODOMETER DISPLAY
8 - TACHOMETER 23 - CRUISE INDICATOR
9 - LEFT TURN INDICATOR 24 - LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR
10 - HIGH BEAM INDICATOR 25 - TRANSMISSION OVERTEMP INDICATOR
11 - RIGHT TURN INDICATOR 26 - PART TIME 4WD INDICATOR
12 - SPEEDOMETER 27 - BRAKE INDICATOR
13 - FRONT FOG LAMP INDICATOR 28 - FULL TIME 4WD INDICATOR
14 - 4WD LOW MODE INDICATOR 29 - SECURITY INDICATOR
15 - MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) 30 - FUEL GAUGE
8J - 4 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERKJ
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (Continued)

eter/trip odometer switch button that extends
through the lower edge of the cluster lens, just right
of the speedometer. Actuating this switch momen-
tarily with the ignition switch in the On position will
toggle the VFD between the odometer and trip odom-
eter modes. Depressing the switch button for about
two seconds while the VFD is in the trip odometer
mode will reset the trip odometer value to zero. Hold-
ing this switch depressed while turning the ignition
switch from the Off position to the On position will
initiate the EMIC self-diagnostic actuator test. The
VFD will also display the cluster software version
level near the completion of the EMIC self-diagnostic
actuator test. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic
information for additional details on this VFD func-
tion.
The VFD is diagnosed using the EMIC self-diag-
nostic actuator test. (Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/IN-
STRUMENT CLUSTER - DIAGNOSIS AND
TESTING). Proper testing of the PCI data bus and
the electronic data bus message inputs to the EMIC
that control some of the VFD functions requires the
use of a DRBIIItscan tool. Refer to the appropriate
diagnostic information. Specific operation details for
the odometer, the trip odometer, and the various
warning message functions of the VFD may be found
elsewhere in this service information.
INDICATORS Indicators are located in various
positions within the EMIC and are all connected to
the EMIC circuit board. The turn signal indicators,
security indicator, washer fluid indicator, and coolant
low indicator (diesel engine only) use 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 and brake fluid level switch inputs to
the EMIC. The Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is
normally controlled by PCI data bus messages from
the Powertrain Control Module (PCM); however, if
the EMIC loses PCI data bus communication, the
EMIC circuitry will automatically turn the MIL on
until PCI data bus communication is restored. The
EMIC uses PCI data bus messages from the Body
Control Module (BCM), the PCM, the Airbag Control
Module (ACM), and the CAB to control all of the
remaining indicators.
The various indicators are controlled by different
strategies; some receive fused ignition switch output
from the EMIC circuitry and have a switched ground,
others are grounded through the EMIC circuitry and
have a switched battery feed, while still others are
completely controlled by the EMIC microprocessor
based upon various hard wired and electronic mes-
sage inputs. Some indicators are illuminated at a
fixed intensity, while the illumination intensity ofothers is synchronized with that of the EMIC general
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 ABS indicator,
airbag indicator, SKIS indicator are automatically
configured by PCI data bus messages received by the
EMIC from the CAB, ACM, or Sentry Key Immobi-
lizer Module (SKIM) after the EMIC is installed in
the vehicle. Once these configuration settings are
learned by the EMIC, the DRBIIItscan tool must be
used to remove these settings from the EMIC non-
volatile memory. The self-configured indicators
remain latent in each EMIC at all times and will be
activated only when the EMIC receives the appropri-
ate PCI message inputs for the optional system or
equipment.
The hard wired indicators are diagnosed using con-
ventional diagnostic methods. The EMIC and PCI
bus message controlled indicators are diagnosed
using the EMIC self-diagnostic 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 indicator
require 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
(multi-function) switch. The illumination intensity of
these lamps is adjusted by a 12-volt Pulse Width
Modulated (PWM) output of the EMIC when the
interior lighting control ring on the left control stalk
of the multi-function switch is rotated (down to dim,
up to brighten) to one of six available minor detent
positions. The BCM provides electronic dimming
level messages based upon internal programming
and inputs it receives from the control knob and con-
trol ring on the left (lighting) control stalk of the
multi-function switch on the steering column, then
provides a control output to energize or de-energize
the park lamp relay as appropriate. The energized
park lamp relay provides battery current to the
EMIC on the hard wired fused park lamp relay out-
put circuit, and the BCM provides the electronic dim-
ming level message to the EMIC over the PCI data
bus. The EMIC electronic circuitry provides the
proper PWM output to the cluster illumination lamps
and the VFD on the EMIC circuit board, then pro-
vides a synchronized PWM output on the hard wired
8J - 6 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERKJ
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)

fused ignition switch output (run-start) circuit
between the JB and the ignition switch as required.
(6) With the ignition switch still in the On posi-
tion, check for battery voltage at the fused ignition
switch output (run-start) circuit cavity of the instru-
ment panel wire harness connector for the instru-
ment cluster. If OK, go to Step 7. If not OK, repair
the open fused ignition switch output circuit (run-
start) between the instrument cluster and the JB as
required.
(7) Turn the ignition switch to the Off position.
Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable.
Check for continuity between the ground circuit cav-
ity of the instrument panel wire harness connector
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
between the instrument cluster and ground (G202) as
required.
ACTUATOR TEST
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.
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, the PCI data bus mes-
sage controlled indicator lamps, and the chime tone
generator are capable of operating as designed. Dur-
ing the actuator test the instrument cluster circuitry
will sound the chime tone generator, position each of
the gauge needles at various specified calibration
points, illuminate each of the segments in the Vacu-um-Fluorescent Display (VFD), and turn all of the
PCI data bus message-controlled indicators on and
off again.
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 Air-
bag Control Module (ACM), the Sentry Key Immobi-
lizer Module (SKIM), or the inputs to one of these
electronic control modules. Use a DRBIIItscan tool
to 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 automatically
begin the actuator test sequence, as follows:
(a) The cluster will turn on, then off again each
of the PCI data bus message controlled indicators
to confirm the functionality of the indicator and
the cluster control circuitry:
(b) The cluster will sweep the needles for each of
the gauges to several calibration points in sequence
to confirm the functionality of the gauge and the
cluster control circuitry:
(c) The cluster will sequentially step the odome-
ter/trip odometer VFD display from all ones
( 111111 )through all nines (999999) to confirm the
functionality of all VFD segments and their control
circuitry, then display the software version number.
(d) The cluster will generate five (5) chime tones
to confirm the functionality of the chime tone gen-
erator and the chime control circuitry.
(6) The actuator test is now completed. The instru-
ment cluster will automatically exit the self-diagnos-
tic mode and return to normal operation at the
completion of the test, if the ignition switch is turned
to the Off position during the test, or if an engine
rpm message indicating that the engine is running is
received from the PCM over the PCI data bus during
the test.
(7) Go back to Step 1 to repeat the test, if
required.
8J - 8 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERKJ
INSTRUMENT CLUSTER (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)

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 a transistor
on the instrument cluster electronic circuit board
based upon the cluster programming and electronic
messages received by the cluster from the Powertrain
Control Module (PCM) over the Programmable Com-
munications Interface (PCI) data bus. The cruise
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 cur-
rent 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 pro-
vided a path to ground by the instrument cluster
transistor. The instrument cluster will turn on the
cruise indicator for the following reasons:
²Cruise Lamp-On Message- Each time the
cluster receives a cruise lamp-on message from the
PCM indicating the speed control system has been
turned On, the cruise indicator is illuminated. The
indicator remains illuminated until the cluster
receives a cruise lamp-off message from the PCM 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 cruise indicator will be
turned on, then off again during the bulb check por-
tion of the test in order to confirm the functionality
of the LED and the cluster control circuitry.
The PCM continually monitors the speed control
switches to determine the proper outputs to the
speed control servo. The PCM then sends the proper
cruise indicator lamp-on and lamp-off messages to
the instrument cluster. For further diagnosis of the
cruise indicator or the instrument cluster circuitry
that controls the indicator, (Refer to 8 - ELECTRI-
CAL/INSTRUMENT CLUSTER - DIAGNOSIS AND
TESTING). For proper diagnosis of the speed control
system, the PCM, the PCI data bus, or the electronic
message inputs to the instrument cluster that control
the cruise indicator, a DRBIIItscan tool is required.
Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
DOOR AJAR INDICATOR
DESCRIPTION
A door ajar indicator is standard equipment on all
instrument clusters. The door ajar indicator consists
of the word ªdoorº, which appears in place of the
odometer/trip odometer information in the Vacuum-Fluorescent Display (VFD) of the instrument cluster.
The VFD is part of the cluster electronic circuit
board, and is visible through a cutout located near
the lower edge of the speedometer dial face in the
instrument cluster. The dark outer layer of the over-
lay prevents the VFD from being clearly visible when
it is not illuminated. The word ªdoorº appears in the
same blue-green color and at the same lighting level
as the odometer/trip odometer information through
the translucent outer layer of the overlay when it is
illuminated by the instrument cluster electronic cir-
cuit board. The door ajar indicator is serviced as a
unit with the instrument cluster.
OPERATION
The door ajar indicator gives an indication to the
vehicle operator that one or more of the passenger
compartment doors may be open or not completely
latched. This indicator is controlled by the instru-
ment cluster electronic circuit board based upon clus-
ter programming and electronic messages received by
the cluster from the Body Control Module (BCM)
over the Programmable Communications Interface
(PCI) data bus. The door ajar indicator function of
the Vacuum Fluorescent Display (VFD) 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 VFD door ajar indication
will always be off when the ignition switch is in any
position except On or Start. The instrument cluster
will turn on the door ajar indicator for the following
reasons:
²Door Ajar Lamp-On Message- Each time the
cluster receives a door ajar lamp-on message from
the BCM indicating that a door is open or not com-
pletely latched, the door ajar indicator will be illumi-
nated. If the vehicle is not moving when the door
ajar lamp-on message is received, the VFD will
repeatedly and sequentially cycle its indication in
two second intervals with the odometer/trip odometer
information, the door ajar warning, and any other
active warnings including: gate ajar, glass ajar, and
low washer fluid. 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
display cycles, then revert to only the odometer/trip
odometer display until the door ajar switch is cycled.
The door ajar indicator will also be extinguished
when the cluster receives a door ajar lamp-off mes-
sage from the BCM, or if the ignition switch is
turned to the Off position, whichever occurs first.
KJINSTRUMENT CLUSTER 8J - 17
CRUISE INDICATOR (Continued)

The BCM continually monitors the door ajar
switches that are integral to each door latch to deter-
mine the status of the doors. The BCM then sends
the proper door ajar lamp-on and lamp-off messages
to the instrument cluster. For further diagnosis of
the door ajar indicator or the instrument cluster cir-
cuitry that controls the indicator, (Refer to 8 - ELEC-
TRICAL/INSTRUMENT CLUSTER - DIAGNOSIS
AND TESTING). For proper diagnosis of the door
ajar switches and circuits, the BCM, the PCI data
bus, or the electronic message inputs to the instru-
ment cluster that control the door ajar indicator, a
DRBIIItscan tool is required. Refer to the appropri-
ate diagnostic information.
ENGINE TEMPERATURE
GAUGE
DESCRIPTION
An engine coolant temperature gauge is standard
equipment on all instrument clusters. The engine
coolant temperature gauge is located in the right
lower corner of the instrument cluster, to the right of
the speedometer. The engine coolant temperature
gauge consists of a movable gauge needle or pointer
controlled by the instrument cluster circuitry and a
fixed 90 degree scale on the cluster overlay that
reads left-to-right from ªCº (or Cold) to ªHº (or Hot)
for all engines. An International Control and Display
Symbol icon for ªEngine Coolant Temperatureº is
located on the cluster overlay, in the center of the
gauge directly above the hub of the gauge needle.
The engine coolant temperature gauge graphics are
dark blue and black against a beige field, except for a
single light blue graduation at the far left (Cold) end
of the gauge scale and a single red graduation at the
far right (Hot) end of the gauge scale, making them
clearly visible within the instrument cluster in day-
light. When illuminated from behind by the panel
lamps dimmer controlled cluster illumination lighting
with the exterior lamps turned On, the blue graphics
appear blue and the red graphics appear red. 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 engine coolant
temperature gauge is serviced as a unit with the
instrument cluster.
OPERATION
The engine coolant temperature gauge gives an
indication to the vehicle operator of the engine cool-
ant temperature. This gauge is controlled by the
instrument cluster circuit board based upon cluster
programming and electronic messages received bythe cluster from the Powertrain Control Module
(PCM) over the Programmable Communications
Interface (PCI) data bus. The engine coolant temper-
ature gauge is an air core magnetic unit that receives
battery current on the instrument cluster electronic
circuit board through the fused ignition switch out-
put (run-start) circuit whenever the ignition switch is
in the On or Start positions. The cluster is pro-
grammed 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 provides the
following features:
²Engine Temperature Normal Message- Each
time the cluster receives a message from the PCM
indicating the engine coolant temperature is within
the normal operating range [up to about 124É C (255É
F) for gasoline engines, or about 110É C (230É F) for
diesel engines], the gauge needle is moved to the rel-
ative temperature position of the gauge scale.
²Engine Temperature High Message- Each
time the cluster receives a message from the PCM
indicating the engine coolant temperature is high
[above about 127É C (260É F) for gasoline engines, or
112É C (233É F) for diesel engines], the gauge needle
is moved into the center of the red warning zone on
the gauge scale.
²Engine Temperature Critical Message-
Each time the cluster receives a message from the
PCM indicating the engine coolant temperature is
critical [above about 132É C (269É F) for gasoline
engines, or 115É C (239É F) for diesel engines], the
gauge needle is moved to the high end of the red
warning zone on the gauge scale.
²Actuator Test- Each time the cluster is put
through the actuator test, the gauge needle will be
swept to the gauge calibration points on the gauge
scale in sequence in order to confirm the functional-
ity of the gauge and the cluster control circuitry.
The PCM continually monitors the engine coolant
temperature sensor to determine the engine operat-
ing temperature. The PCM then sends the proper
engine coolant temperature messages to the instru-
ment cluster. For further diagnosis of the engine cool-
ant temperature gauge or the instrument cluster
circuitry that controls the gauge, (Refer to 8 - ELEC-
TRICAL/INSTRUMENT CLUSTER - DIAGNOSIS
AND TESTING). If the instrument cluster moves the
engine coolant temperature gauge needle to indicate
a high or critical engine temperature, it may indicate
that the engine or the engine cooling system requires
service. For proper diagnosis of the engine coolant
temperature sensor, the PCM, the PCI data bus, or
the electronic message inputs to the instrument clus-
ter that control the engine coolant temperature
8J - 18 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERKJ
DOOR AJAR INDICATOR (Continued)

OPERATION
The fuel gauge gives an indication to the vehicle
operator of the level of fuel in the fuel tank. This
gauge is controlled by the instrument cluster 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
fuel gauge is an air core magnetic unit that receives
battery current on the instrument cluster electronic
circuit board through the fused ignition switch out-
put (run-start) circuit whenever the ignition switch is
in the On or Start positions. The cluster is pro-
grammed 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 provides the
following features:
²Percent Tank Full Message- Each time the
cluster receives a message from the PCM indicating
the percent tank full, the cluster moves the gauge
needle to the relative fuel level position on the gauge
scale. The PCM applies an algorithm to the input
from the fuel tank sender to dampen gauge needle
movement against the negative effect that fuel slosh-
ing within the fuel tank can have on accurate inputs
to the PCM.
²Less Than 12.5 Percent Tank Full Message-
Each time the cluster receives messages from the
PCM indicating the percent tank full is less than
12.5 (one-eighth), the gauge needle is moved to the
proper position on the gauge scale and the low fuel
indicator is illuminated. The low fuel indicator
remains illuminated until the cluster receives mes-
sages from the PCM indicating that the percent tank
full is greater than 12.5 (one-eighth), or until the
ignition switch is turned to the Off position, which-
ever occurs first.
²Less Than Empty Percent Tank Full Mes-
sage- Each time the cluster receives a message from
the PCM indicating the percent tank full is less than
empty, the gauge needle is moved to the far left (low)
end of the gauge scale and the low fuel indicator is
illuminated immediately. This message would indi-
cate that the fuel tank sender input to the PCM is a
short circuit.
²More Than Full Percent Tank Full Message
- Each time the cluster receives a message from the
PCM indicating the percent tank full is more than
full, the gauge needle is moved to the far left (low)
end of the gauge scale and the low fuel indicator is
illuminated immediately. This message would indi-
cate that the fuel tank sender input to the PCM is an
open circuit.
²Actuator Test- Each time the cluster is put
through the actuator test, the gauge needle will beswept to the gauge calibration points on the gauge
scale in sequence in order to confirm the functional-
ity of the gauge and the cluster control circuitry.
The PCM continually monitors the fuel tank
sender input to determine the fuel level. The PCM
then applies an algorithm to the input and sends the
proper percent tank full messages to the instrument
cluster. For further diagnosis of the fuel gauge or the
instrument cluster circuitry that controls the gauge,
(Refer to 8 - ELECTRICAL/INSTRUMENT CLUS-
TER - DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING). For proper
diagnosis of the fuel tank sender, the PCM, the PCI
data bus, or the electronic message inputs to the
instrument cluster that control the fuel gauge, a
DRBIIItscan tool is required. Refer to the appropri-
ate diagnostic information.
GATE AJAR INDICATOR
DESCRIPTION
A gate ajar indicator is standard equipment on all
instrument clusters. The gate ajar indicator consists
of the word ªgateº, which appears in place of the
odometer/trip odometer information in the Vacuum-
Fluorescent Display (VFD) of the instrument cluster.
The VFD is part of the cluster electronic circuit
board, and is visible through a cutout located near
the lower edge of the speedometer dial face in the
instrument cluster. The dark outer layer of the over-
lay prevents the VFD from being clearly visible when
it is not illuminated. The word ªgateº appears in the
same blue-green color and at the same lighting level
as the odometer/trip odometer information through
the translucent outer layer of the overlay when it is
illuminated by the instrument cluster electronic cir-
cuit board. The gate ajar indicator is serviced as a
unit with the instrument cluster.
OPERATION
The gate ajar indicator gives an indication to the
vehicle operator that the rear tailgate may be open
or not completely latched. This indicator is controlled
by the instrument cluster electronic circuit board
based upon cluster programming and electronic mes-
sages received by the cluster from the Body Control
Module (BCM) over the Programmable Communica-
tions Interface (PCI) data bus. The gate ajar indica-
tor function of the Vacuum Fluorescent Display
(VFD) 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) circuit. Therefore, the VFD
gate ajar indicator will always be off when the igni-
tion switch is in any position except On or Start. The
8J - 20 INSTRUMENT CLUSTERKJ
FUEL GAUGE (Continued)