Diagnosis And Testing - Overhead Console: Notes

The most reliable, efficient, and accurate means to diagnose the overhead console or related system requires the use of a DRB III(R) scan tool and the Service and Body Diagnostic Procedures Manuals. The DRB III(R) scan tool can provide vital information to the technician trying to find a problem with a overhead console component. Diagnostic logic is built into the overhead console mounted module to help the person trying to locate the problem by the most efficient means possible. Anytime a problem is suspected, a DRB III(R) scan tool must be obtained and used to retrieve any stored fault codes in the module. If diagnostic fault codes are present in the module, record them on a piece of paper immediately before proceeding any further. Then, use these fault codes to identify the problem by verifying the fault code. Example, If the module records "TIRE PRESSURE N/A"  fault, locate the diagnostic procedure for this code in the appropriate Body Diagnostic Procedures Manual and follow the flow chart until the specific problem is located and resolved. Once the problem is thought to be corrected, erase the stored fault code using the DRB III(R) scan tool and verify correct system operation. If the tire pressure monitoring system is functioning correctly, verify that there are no other stored codes in the module and return the vehicle to service.

If the fault code could not be verified, such as not finding anything wrong when following the diagnostic flow chart in the Body Diagnostic Procedures Manual. This is a good indication that a INTERMITTENT problem may be present. You must than attempt to find the intermittent problem, such as running a tire pressure monitoring system self test. Refer to TIRES/WHEELS & TIRE PRESSURE MONITORING SYSTEM for more information. Always, eliminate all other potential problems before attempting to replace the module.