October 2009 Archives

2010 LaCrosse, SRX, Camaro and Equinox owners may comment that the door lock actuators are inoperative intermittently. This condition may be caused by excessive use of the Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) transmitter Lock or Unlock button or the door Lock/Unlock switch.

 

If either the RKE Lock or Unlock button or Lock/Unlock switch is pressed several times repeatedly within 45 seconds, the door lock actuators will temporarily become inoperative.

 

This is a normal operating characteristic that is designed to prevent premature wear to the door lock actuators.

 

To correct the temporarily inoperative state, it's necessary to wait up to 15 seconds (depending on the number of times the button or switch was pressed) without depressing the button or switch. This will allow the system to regain functionality.

 

When installing the range selector lever cable to the range shifter housing on the 2010 LaCrosse, ensure that the adjustable cable lock mechanism is properly seated.

 

Although the mechanism may appear to be seated, it may not be fully locked in place. (Fig. 4)

 

It may take additional force in order to properly seat the locking mechanism. It also may be necessary to use the aid of a tool to ensure that the mechanism is fully seated. (Fig. 5)

 

The top portion of the locking mechanism should align flush with the top of the housing. If not properly seated, the cable may disconnect and not allow shifting.

 

Prior to installing the GM Accessory Rally Stripes Kit on the 2010 Camaro, it's important to review the three videos available through the GM GlobalConnect website. These videos provide several tips to ensure trouble-free application of the accessory stripes kit.

 

To access the training videos from the GlobalConnect website, in the U.S., select:

> Workbenches

> Sales

> Accessory Information Center (AIC)

>From this website, select Support, and then Training.

 

In Canada, the training videos may be accessed from the GlobalConnect website by selecting GM Accessories under the Brand section on the home page.

 

There are installation instructions and three videos on how to install the stripes kit.

 

TIP: (U.S. only) If the Accessory Information Center (AIC) tab under the Sales Workbench is not available, please contact your Dealer's Partner Security Coordinator (located in the Edit Profile tab) to set up access to the AIC tab.

 

Some models of the 2010 LaCrosse, SRX, and Equinox built prior to June 26, 2009, may be equipped with remote operating door windows. This feature enables the vehicle's door windows to be opened from outside the vehicle using the Remote Keyless Entry transmitter.

 

To open the windows using the transmitter, press and hold the transmitter's Unlock button for several seconds until all the windows open.

 

This feature only opens all windows. There is no feature to close the windows using the transmitter.

 

TIP: On 2010 Equinox models equipped with the remote operating door windows feature, the feature will be eliminated if the BCM is replaced or reprogrammed. It cannot be turned back on nor can a vehicle built on or after June 26, 2009, have this feature added.

 

Active Noise Cancellation, or ANC, (RPO VQN) is being introduced on 2010 Equinox and Terrain models equipped with the 2.4L SIDI 4-cylinder engine (RPO LAF). It works to reduce noticeable noise at certain vehicle speeds by creating sound waves at a precise frequency, resulting in improved quietness with less mass -- and better fuel economy -- than using additional sound-deadening insulation.

 

The ANC system has four main components:

·       ANC module

·       Microphones (2)

·       Audio amplifier

·       Speakers

 

ANC uses an RPM signal from the tachometer to determine the rotational speed in the engine along with in-vehicle microphones to monitor low-frequency engine drone. The microphones are connected to the audio system and pick up the sound/noise in the vehicle's cabin while the speakers produce the cancellation vibrations.

 

The two microphones are centrally located in the headliner to detect noise in the vehicle caused by the engine. The processor analyzes the noise signal and outputs a cancellation signal audio tone based on positive coefficient and phase change to moderate the engine noise and make the vehicle seem quieter. The ANC module then sends an "anti-noise "amplified signal to the speaker and subwoofer, which is mixed within the audio amplifier with the regular audio (CD/radio, etc).

 

TIP: ANC does NOT cancel wind noise, road noise, or any engine noise above 2000 RPM.

 

TIP: For optimal ANC performance, do not block the cargo area speaker. (Fig. 2)

 

Commonly Misidentified Issues

 

·       ANC is not working

 

If a customer knows the vehicle has ANC, it may be a common misperception that ANC is not working because the engine still makes noise. The ANC module only cancels particular frequencies of noise caused by transmission lockup. It is meant to bring the engine noise back to an acceptable level, not create a noise-free environment, such as noise-cancelling headphones.

 

·       The subwoofer is not working

 

Vehicles equipped with the base-level audio system (RPO UW6) and ANC (RPO VQN) will have a subwoofer in the rear compartment. The subwoofer is necessary for ANC operation and is used only for ANC on vehicles equipped with the base-level audio system. With UW6, no CD or radio audio output will come out of the subwoofer (strictly dedicated for ANC).

 

Diagnostics/Service

 

The ANC module has an internal microphone-check diagnostic mode. This can be used to check microphone connectivity. Please see the Service Information for diagnostic tone testing (Document ID# 2274156)

 

ANC Limiter Shutdown

 

The ANC module (Fig. 3) has a self-protect mode where it will shut down if the cabin environment changes in a way where noise can no longer be canceled (i.e., odd combination of open windows, etc).

 

An output limiter is part of the ANC programming, so it may shut down during an ignition cycle to prevent ANC overload. ANC will resume normal operation on the next ignition cycle. If this shutdown happens while a customer is driving, more engine noise than normal may be noticeable.

 

 

ANC Labor Code

 

The labor code associated with ANC repair/replace is R0150.

 

TIP: Keep in mind that ANC is part of the audio system and that the amplifier, radio, speakers and microphones all need to be working for ANC to function properly. For example, intermittent microphone connectivity will lead to unstable ANC operation.

 

This information applies to Rainier, TrailBlazer, Colorado, Envoy, Canyon, H3, Bravada, or 9-7x with an inline 4/5/6-cylinder engine (RPO Code L52, LK5, LL8, LLR, or LLV).

 

Some vehicles may have an engine rattle that develops shortly after engine repairs that required crankshaft balancer removal and replacement. In some cases, the noise can be eliminated by retarding the CMP actuator with a Tech 2. The noise may be the result of the crankshaft gear rattling on the crankshaft pin if the crankshaft balancer bolt was not torqued to specification during recent repairs. If this rattle occurs for a long period of time, it could eventually lead to crankshaft timing sprocket or pin damage, which may cause an SES light due to DTCs P0016 or P0017 (DTC depends on model year) and no engine performance concerns.

 

If a rattle noise is present -- with or without the SES light and DTC P0016 or P0017 -- and SI diagnosis does not isolate the cause, re-torque the crankshaft balancer bolt to specification following SI procedures and re-evaluate the noise.

 

If tightening the bolt repairs the rattle noise but DTC P0016 or P0017 still sets, follow SI diagnosis and repair as necessary.

 

If this does not isolate the cause of the DTC, follow SI procedures to remove the crankshaft timing sprocket and inspect the crankshaft alignment pin and the related groove of the sprocket for obvious wear. If obvious wear is present, replace the crankshaft timing sprocket and/or pin and re-evaluate the concern.

 

The 2010 SRX features two available powertrains: the 3.0L DI V6 (RPO LF1) with the 6T70 Hydra-Matic transmission (RPO MH2, FWD; RPO MH4, AWD) and the recently introduced 2.8L turbo V6 (RPO LAU) with the Aisin AF40-6 transmission (RPO MXE). Vehicles with the turbo V6 and AF40-6 powertrain are AWD.

 

The AF40-6 transmission uses a specific transmission fluid, referred to as AW 1. DEXRON^®-VI should NOT be used in the AF40-6 transmission.

 

AW 1 transmission fluid is GM part number 19256039 (US) or 19256040 (Canada).

 

As the initial deployment of Multiple Diagnostic Interface (MDI) tools reaches its two year anniversary, these units will fall out of warranty coverage. Dealerships needing assistance in diagnosing an MDI unit and requesting service will still need to call the Techline Customer Support Center. If it is determined that the MDI will need to be sent in for repairs, there are two possible repair processes depending on the repairs that are needed.

 To start the process, the MDI is sent to the repair center. The repair center will contact the dealership within two days of receiving the MDI to confirm one of the following repair processes:

·       If the MDI can be repaired, the charge will be $129 (USD) plus shipping.

·       If the MDI needs to be replaced with a refurbished unit, the charge will be $395 (USD) plus shipping.

After confirming the repair process, the unit will be sent back to the dealership within two business days. Both processes include a 90 day service warranty.

With the recent arrivals of the 2010 Camaro, LaCrosse, Equinox, Terrain and SRX in dealerships, technicians have had their first experiences in diagnosing GM Global Architecture (Global A) vehicles using the new GM Global Diagnostic System (GDS). These vehicles do not permit Tech 2^® communication for diagnostic purposes. (Fig. 1)

 

GDS is a PC-based diagnostic application that works with simple menu-driven commands using a standard Windows^® interface on a Techline service PC. It takes advantage of the display and processing power of the PC to provide technicians with the ability to work with vehicle data in ways unavailable on the Tech 2. Technicians will be able to view much more data from many different perspectives along with an improved snapshot feature.

 

Several additional Global A vehicles will be introduced shortly that will also use GDS, including the Chevrolet Cruze, Buick Regal, Saab 9-5 and Saab 9-4X. The Multiple Diagnostic Interface (MDI) combined with GDS will be the diagnostic tool used on Global A vehicles, while other vehicles will continue to use the Tech 2, making both scan tools required diagnostic tools in the dealership.

 

TIP: When the Service Information instructs technicians to use a scan tool during diagnostic procedures, it does not reference a specific tool, such as the MDI/GDS or Tech 2. Technicians need to determine the proper scan tool to use based on the vehicle being serviced.

 

Global Electrical System

 

The Global A models using GDS are truly globally-designed vehicles. They are built around the world for several different markets. This requires vehicle systems to meet the requirements of varying regulations in different markets, some of which can have an effect on the way vehicles are typically diagnosed and serviced half-way around the world.

 

One recent issue experienced in dealerships may be a no start condition after swapping an ECM or other module from one Global A vehicle to another.

 

The Global A system does not allow controller swaps between vehicles. This includes these modules: ECM, BCM, EBCM, SDM, ECC and IPC.

 

If a module on a Global A vehicle is swapped out, it will result in a no start condition in both vehicles because the module security codes do not match.

 

Using GDS

 

In order to be ready to service the new 2010 Global A models, it's recommended that the GDS application be downloaded and installed before Global A vehicles start arriving at the dealership.

 

GDS can be downloaded through TIS2Web by clicking on the GDS icon on the TIS2Web home page. The application must be loaded on each shop PC individually. Once installed, GDS can be launched from the PC desktop icon or from TIS2Web.

 

Also verify your MDI is configured for your dealership's network and updated with the latest version of software. Updated MDI software is automatically downloaded to the PC through either SPS or GDS, but technicians need to update the MDI when prompted with the new software using the MDI Manager software application.

 

In addition, since the MDI is now being used as a diagnostic tool, as well as SPS, it may be beneficial to reassess how many MDIs your service department will require. Additional units can be ordered through 1-800-GM-TOOLS.

 

In order to take full advantage of PC-based vehicle diagnostics, notebook and tablet computers will provide technicians more mobility and efficiency by being able to perform diagnostics on a road test as well as reducing the amount of time spent going back and forth between the vehicle and a desktop PC. If your dealership is looking into purchasing additional computers -- notebooks or desktops -- be sure to review the latest recommended PC specs.

 

GDS Information and Training

 

Further GDS specifications and user training is available online.

 

·       Dealerships must ensure that their current IT infrastructure meets the GM specifications required for Techline applications. Updated specifications for efficiently running GDS are available at www.gmdesolutions.com. (In Canada, on GMGlobalConnect in the Service library under Tools and Processes and Equipment.)

 

·       Recommended specifications for a mobile computing device (notebook or tablet PC) for use when performing diagnostic procedures on the road is available at www.gmdesolutions.com. (In Canada, on GMGlobalConnect in the Service library under Tools and Processes and Equipment.)

 

·       GDS Familiarization training course 16048.26W provides an overview of the use of the MDI and GDS for diagnostics.

 

·       MDI Familiarization training course 16048.25W covers the operation of the MDI.

 

The 2003-2007 ION, 2004-2007 VUE, 2005-2010 Cobalt, 2005-2009 G5 (Pursuit), and 2006-2010 HHR -- equipped with a Getrag manual transmission (RPO M86 or MG3) -- may exhibit a hop-out or blocked shift of 1st, 3rd and 5th gears or difficulty shifting. The shift lever roll pin may back out and contact the shift cover during a shift event, which can cause an incomplete, blocked shift or difficulty shifting the transmission. (Fig. 6)

 

Prior to any internal transmission repairs, inspect the shift cover and lever to determine if the roll pin has backed out and is dragging on or contacting the housing. If roll pin contact is evident, then the shifting difficulty may NOT be an internal transmission condition.

 

If the shift cover shows witness marks from contact with the roll pin, replace the complete shift cover assembly. Refer to the appropriate Service Information. Do not replace the transmission for this condition.

 

If the roll pin is not dislodged, follow the appropriate diagnostics in the Service Information. (Fig. 7)

  

- Thanks to Chuck Krepp

Owners of a 2009 HHR, 2008 HHR SS, 2009 Traverse (without AXC or AXE), 2007-09 Silverado or Sierra (without DL3 and/or AN3), or 2007-09 Acadia or OUTLOOK (without AXC or AXE) may comment that if the driver's power window switch is pressed shortly before cranking the engine, the driver's power window may be inoperative for a short time after the engine starts.

 

The driver's power window switch has "stuck switch software" built into the switch. This software disables the switch in the event of a switch sticking in a position other than the neutral (released) position. If the power window switch is pressed shortly before cranking the engine, the software may recognize it as a stuck switch and disable the switch.

 

The power window switch will reset automatically once the switch is in the neutral position for two seconds. If the switch is released and pressed again before two seconds has elapsed, it will remain inoperative until the switch is released for a full two seconds.

 

Do not replace the power window switch for this condition.

 

The 2010 SRX features four D-Ring sliders that move along rails on both sides of the cargo management area. These can be used as tie-downs when storing cargo.

 

The four D-ring attachments are located in a box in the loose shipped parts bag in the rear of the vehicle.

 

To install the D-Ring slider, insert it into the channel located in the middle of each rail. (Fig. 10)

 

The loop of the D-Ring slider must be facing inward toward the storage area and the ring must be in the up position for proper use. (Fig. 11)

 

Push the button to move the D-Ring slider. The rings can be locked into various positions along the rail.

 

An OnStar no connect issue is when the vehicle cannot reach the OnStar Call Center when the blue OnStar button is pressed. The problem can be caused by the antenna, the OnStar module, or the cell phone network.

 

With current diagnostic procedures, technicians do not have a method to isolate an OnStar no connect issue to a faulty component the first time. Service Information instructions state to replace the antenna first, and if that does not fix the problem, replace the module. Most no connect issues are related to the module or the cell phone network, so GM is experiencing high warranty levels on antennas with no trouble found.

 

A new essential tool, the OnStar Antenna Test Tool EL-49903 recently shipped to dealers, is now available that will qualify the antenna and module.

 

The EL-49903 tool consists of EL-49903-1 antenna and EL-49903-2 harness adapter. Use the harness adapter with the white mini-UHF connector to mate the OnStar Antenna Test Tool to OnStar modules Generation 7 and prior. Use the purple FAKRA connector for all generations after 7.05. (Fig. 12)

 

TIP: The following verification procedure requires the vehicle to be outside with an unobstructed view of the southern sky to ensure proper view of satellites and cell towers.

 

The OnStar Antenna Test Tool should be used to determine if the problem is related to the antenna or the module when the vehicle is unable to connect to the OnStar Call Center. The procedure involves connecting the OnStar test antenna directly to the OnStar module and trying to connect to the OnStar Call Center. If still not able to connect, the problem is either with the module or the cell phone network. Call the Technical Assistance Center to order a module. If a call is able to connect to the OnStar Call Center using the OnStar test antenna, follow diagnostics for the antenna and coax cables to further isolate the problem.

 

OnStar No Connect Malfunction Procedure (without Navigation)

 

1.     Ignition OFF, disconnect the coax cable connector at the K73 telematics communication interface control (OnStar) module.

2.     Connect the EL-49903 to the K73 telematics communication interface control module; place the test antenna on the roof of the vehicle.

3.     Ignition ON, contact the OnStar Call Center by pressing the blue OnStar button. A call center consultant should answer the call, verifying the vehicle OnStar system is functioning.

 

If the OnStar system does not function, replace the K73 telematics communication interface module.

 

If the OnStar system does function, perform the following antenna/coaxial cable diagnostics.

 

4.     Ignition OFF, perform the coax cable test on the coax cable, refer to Component Testing in SI. The coax cable should pass the test.

 

If the coax cable does not pass the test, replace the coax cable.

 

If all coax cable circuit testing is normal, replace the T4 cellular phone and navigation antenna.

 

2009 and prior Chevrolet and GMC light-duty trucks and SUVs equipped with 4WD and 2009 and prior HUMMER H2 and H3 models may exhibit a groan, growl, or moan noise when operating the vehicle in 4WD Lock.

 

The noise may be due to a vibration that is heard or felt as a result of the front axle being excited to resonance at its natural frequency. This is a combination of the transfer case chain link frequency, engine firing frequency, tire circumference variation, and various other tolerances built into the 4WD system.

 

TIP: A groan, growl or moan noise on deceleration while in 4WD Lock is also the result of loading the transfer case chain, which is an operating characteristic. This is just one example of a transfer case link frequency as noted above.

 

TIP: On certain models, such as 3/4 -and 1-ton vehicles, tire pressures can vary from front to rear based on the manufacturer's specifications. For example, the tire pressures on a 2003 Suburban K2500 are front: 50 PSI (345 kPa), rear: 80 PSI (550 kPa).

 

The difference in tire pressures affects the rolling tire circumference from front to rear, which can increase driveline noise while in 4WD.

 

For test purposes, drop the tire pressure in the rear to match the front. If the noise is reduced or eliminated, this confirms the difference in tire pressures from front to rear can affect the noise when operated in 4WD. Set the rear tire pressure back to the manufacturer's specification. For vehicles with the same tire pressures front to rear, swap tires from an identically built vehicle that does not seem to exhibit the concern and re-evaluate both vehicles.

 

No repairs are recommended for this condition.

 

For more information regarding driveline noises while in 4WD, refer to the latest version of bulletin #01-04-18-001F.

 

If the sun visor/sunshade vanity mirror door on a 2008-09 STS breaks and separates from the mirror frame, the vanity mirror door may be replaced separately. It is not necessary to pull the sun visor/sunshade or harness from the headliner or replace the sun visor/sunshade assembly.

 

This condition may be caused by an area of porosity in the molded material of the vanity mirror door that may weaken over time, causing one of the side retaining pins of the vanity mirror door to break off. (Fig. 13)

 

Refer to service bulletin #09-08-110-014 for specific repair, part, and warranty information.

 

Part Numbers

 

19210534

Sunshade Mirror Door (Gray)

 

19210535

Sunshade Mirror Door (Cashmere)

 

Beginning in October, the monthly Emerging Issues (EI) seminar in the U.S. will go directly to www.gmtraining.com as a streaming video. It will no longer be broadcast live due to the discontinuation of the GM Interactive Distance Learning (IDL) satellite system. The majority of Emerging Issues viewers already watch the program as a streaming video, so this is not expected to be a big change.

 

The goal of Emerging Issues has always been to keep technicians and service consultants updated on the latest service issues and to provide a "heads up" as new issues are identified. This goal hasn't changed, only the delivery method.

 

Emerging Issues will follow the same schedule as in the past. New programs will be available on the website by the second Thursday of every month.

 

Emerging Issues on www.gmtraining.com

 

To find Emerging Issues seminars on www.gmtraining.com, click Service Know-How/TECHAssist in the menu on the left. Next, select Emerging Issues, and then Searchable Streaming Video.

 

Scroll down the list or use the search engine to find the current Emerging Issues seminar or any of the programs from prior months. You can also search the list for a particular topic, and search within each program for a keyword. Clicking a result of the keyword search will take you right to that portion of the video.

 

To get credit for watching Emerging Issues, take the test on the website by clicking Testing, select Service Technical, and then Know-How Seminars.

 

Send Email to EI@raytheon.com

A new email address has been created for Emerging Issues. As always, viewers are encouraged to send in their questions, comments and suggestions.

 

We'd like to use email to create a dialogue between Emerging Issues and viewers. If you are interested in participating, send an email to EI@raytheon.com. Advance notice of upcoming guests and topics will be sent out so viewers can send in questions before the show is taped. If you can, attach a picture of yourself, or your dealership, just in case your question is used in the program. 

 

As always, if you have a question after watching Emerging Issues, email us your question and we'll do our best to get an answer as quickly as possible.

 

 

 

10209.10D -- Emerging Issues

 

October 8, 2009