April 2010 Archives

GM recently announced that the Service Parts Operations (SPO) organization will now be known as GM Customer Care and Aftersales. It includes GM Service Operations, ACDelco, GM Goodwrench and GM Performance Parts.

The name change was made to better reflect GM's renewed emphasis on customer satisfaction and service after the sale.

- Thanks to Lisa Scott

An intermittent Service Park Assist Message may display on the DIC of some of the following models equipped with RPO UD7 or UD5: 2010 SRX, CTS Wagon, Escalade models, Avalanche, Camaro, Equinox, Silverado, Traverse, Tahoe, Suburban, Enclave, Acadia, Sierra, Terrain, and Yukon models.

There may be one or more of the following DTCs stored in history: B0954 01, B0955 01, B0956 01, B0957 01, B0958 01, B0959 01, B0960 01, and/or B0961 01.

If, after normal diagnostics, the cause of the condition is not found, reprogram the Park Assist Control Module with an updated calibration currently available in TIS2WEB.

- Thanks to James Will

The following electrical issues may be evident on some 2005-2008 Cobalt, 2007-2008 G5 and 2005-2006 Pursuit (Canada only) models: SIR warning lamp illuminated, instrument panel lights flicker/inoperative, parking lamps flicker/inoperative, tail lamps dim/inoperative, trunk open lamp illuminated, radio inoperative, door lock inoperative, no start, or no crank.

One possible cause of these conditions may be the interior wiring at the S361/J361 splice. Inspect splice S361/J361, parking lamp circuit, located in the body harness under the driver's seat. (Fig. 4)

Remove the driver's seat from the vehicle and the driver's door opening carpet retainer. Peel back the carpet to about the "B" pillar and inspect the wires. If there is any damage, repair splice S361/J361 and other wires. Be sure to shrink-wrap any repairs to protect against moisture. If there is excessive moisture or water evident, water-test the vehicle for any leaks.

- Thanks to Jim Loomis

After a control module has been replaced on a Global A vehicle (2010 Camaro, LaCrosse, SRX, Equinox and Terrain), in some instances, a security timer will be activated. When the security timer starts during the control module programming session, the Load ECU Status bar may briefly show activity before appearing to freeze up. The status message says "Connecting to the Server." (Fig. 5)

Once the security timer counts down 10 minutes, the programming session will resume and complete normally.

- Thanks to Paul Gallo and Jeff Flood

When diagnosing a condition with the turn signals, trunk actuator, courtesy lamps, or Brake Transmission Shift Interlock (BTSI) on 2006-2010 Impala and 2006-2007 Monte Carlo models, it may be possible to overlook some fuses in the Underhood Bussed Electrical Center (UBEC).

The common architecture Body Control Module (BCM) uses several fuses for power, and the labeling of the fuses may be misread.

TIP: If the fuse in the UBEC labeled RT T/SIG is open, it will cause the right rear turn signal, the trunk actuator, and the BTSI to be inoperative. The right front turn signal will still function.

TIP: If the fuse in the UBEC labeled INT LIGHTS is open, it will cause the right front turn signal to be inoperative. The right rear turn signal will still function and the courtesy lamps will still function.

TIP: If the fuse in the UBEC labeled INT LTS/PNL DIM is open, the courtesy lamps will be inoperative. The instrument panel cluster backlighting will still function.

- Thanks to Dave Eplin

Wheel nut torque specifications over the years have often been consistent for all passenger cars or trucks as well as from one model year to the next. However, wheel sizes, assembly requirements and manufacturer designs have led to many changes and, as a result, torque specifications have changed too. (Fig. 8)

Technicians should no longer assume the torque specification is the same as it always has been for a passenger car or truck. New specifications are put in place for a number of reasons and may change with each model year. 

Following are the 2010 model year wheel nut torque specifications. Use them any time a wheel is being installed on a vehicle. An improperly torqued wheel can cause brake rotor distortion, which leads to brake pedal pulsation. 

Refer to SI for additional information about proper wheel installation and tool use. It's recommended to use a calibrated torque wrench to achieve the specified torque. 

The wheel nut torque specifications can be found in the Service and Appearance Care section of the owner manuals and the Suspension>Tires and Wheels section of the service manuals that are available on SI. 

- Thanks to Brad Thacher and Kathleen Jakes 

The Battery Electrical Drain/Parasitic Load Test diagnostic procedure found in the Engine Electrical service category in GM Service Information has been updated starting with the 2010 model year. Changes were made to enhance the diagnostic procedure and offer additional information. 

More details provided by the field service engineers have been added to the Diagnostic Aids category to help technicians better understand how different components affect proper operation. For example, the diagnostic aids point out:

·       Aftermarket accessories installed into the courtesy lamp circuit can cause the inadvertent power timer in the BCM to keep resetting. This would cause the BCM to remain awake and cause a current drain on the battery.

·       An engine off natural vacuum evaporative test can occur if the ECM determines the drive cycle has met the appropriate criteria immediately after key off. The ECM will stay awake and the vent solenoid will stay energized for as long as 45 minutes. The typical current draw for this is about 1 A.

·       Some automatic climate control systems can remain in a semi-awake state for up to three hours. Actual draw amounts vary by vehicle platform, but are typically not greater than 50 mA. 

The Circuit/System Verification category also has been updated to use either an inductive pickup probe or the essential tool J-38758 Parasitic Draw Test Switch. Now the technician can use either tool to perform the battery drain test. If an inductive pickup probe is available, it will greatly reduce the hook up and testing time. When using the J-38758 Parasitic Draw Test Switch, the new diagnostic procedure greatly reduces the number of steps required to determine if an excessive current draw is present or not. During testing the DMM mA current scale is no longer used, this eliminates the high risk of damaging the DMM milliamp fuse. 

- Thanks to Dave Nowak

U.S. dealerships can order as well as stop the delivery of paper service bulletins by completing the subscription options on GM GlobalConnect. 

Here are the instructions for "how to order" and "how to stop" paper copy service bulletins: 

1.     Log in to the GM GlobalConnect/Dealer World Portal

2.     Click the DWD Store link

3.     Click the Subscriptions link

4.     You will see a list of options, with an associated box for each option

5.     Two options are: 1. Field Product Bulletins, and 2. Technical Bulletins

6.     If you want to subscribe, enter the desired quantity (number) in the boxes associated with Field and Product Bulletins and the boxes associated with Technical Bulletins.
If you want to unsubscribe, enter a zero in these boxes.
There are seven categories (Body Shop, Business Office, Finance Insurance, Parts, Sales, Service and Used) to enter a quantity number (to subscribe) or a zero (to unsubscribe) -- see the accompanying subscription form. (Fig. 9)

7.     Click the Save button. 

TIP: It is very important to click the Save button in order to save your subscription changes. 

If you are having a problem subscribing or unsubscribing and would like help with the subscription process, call the GM Fulfillment Helpdesk at 1-866-700-0001. 

- Thanks to Vivian Williams, Chad O'Brien, Katul Patel, Michael Balon, Rick Gatt, and Tom Nguyen

Several changes in operating characteristics and hardware have been made to the Two-Mode Hybrid system (RPO HP2) available on the 2010 Escalade, Silverado, Tahoe, Sierra (Fig. 10), and Yukon.

The ECM, HPCM, MCM1, MCM2, and TCM in 2010 models have completely new software. This software is incompatible with previous model years. The driving feel has some minor improvements, but behaves largely the same for the driver. 

Enhancements include:

·          The engine will enter Auto Stop mode while in Reverse. If the torque required to move the vehicle in Reverse is too large, such as backing up an incline, the engine will start and remain running until the transmission is shifted out of Reverse. If the incline is steep, the engine may increase in speed in a step function, causing a small bump. This is considered normal operation.

·          If conditions allow, the engine may now enter Auto Stop mode during a Remote Vehicle Start event. 

New connectors have been added on the transmission auxiliary fluid pump and auxiliary fluid pump control module. The connectors are incompatible with previous model years. 

When servicing a 2006 Impala or Monte Carlo or a 2005-2006 Grand Prix, with a V8 engine, following bulletin #06-02-32-014, it's important to note that the new power steering hose is physically different than the original. The newly designed hose has a fin-type cooler built onto the hose assembly. (Fig. 11)

The new design power steering hose should include installation instructions, which describe how to install the new design hose on vehicles that did not have this style hose previously. Per the installation instructions, it is necessary to drill mounting holes in the cradle to attach the new design hose assembly to the vehicle. 

If the retrofit instructions have not been packed with the power steering hose kit or are not available to the technician working on the vehicle in the dealership, refer to PIC5318, which includes the complete removal and installation procedure. 

TIP: Always verify the correct part number listed in the Electronic Parts Catalog when ordering the power steering hose. 

- Thanks to David Eplin

The Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) Kit and the Brake Pressure Modulator Valve (BPMV) Kit for the 2010 LaCrosse, SRX, Camaro, Equinox and Terrain have been placed on parts restriction. These parts must be ordered through the GM TAC (Technical Assistance Center). 

Prior to contacting TAC, verify that proper diagnosis has been performed. 

·          If DTCs are present and the Service Information (SI) procedure gives direction to replace the component, first capture snapshot stored data and, if possible, test drive the vehicle with the MDI and a laptop installed to capture a snap shot of the EBCM data when the condition occurs. Refer to the latest version of bulletin #10-07-30-002 for correct snapshot data collection. Save the snapshot as it may be requested for later use. 

·          If DTCs are not present, refer to Symptoms in SI and search all applicable bulletins/P.I.s for repair information prior to contacting TAC. 

·          When calling TAC to review the case, have as much stored DTC and snapshot information as possible available. 

·          After reviewing the diagnosis, if either component replacement is needed, TAC will arrange for ordering of the part(s). Record the TAC case number to be used by the parts department (in conjunction with the part #) as this is the control number needed to track shipment of the part. It is not necessary to call TAC for part tracking information. 

- Thanks to Jeremy Richardson

Some owners of the 2010 Equinox and Terrain may not be properly locking the roof rack cross rails in place. This information applies to both the factory installed and the GM Accessory roof rack cross rails.

Do not replace any parts for this concern. 

The roof rack cross rails can be locked in four positions along the roof rack side rails. These four positions are the only positions where the cross rails will lock. (Fig. 12)

Push the lever down to completely engage the cross rails into the side rail holes. Slide the cross rails back and forth until the lock pins engage in the holes. 

TIP: An audible click can be heard as the pins align and the cross rails lock. 

If the lever is not flat, the cross rail will not be completely engaged in a side rail hole. (Fig. 13) Be sure to slide the cross rail forward and backward to ensure that it is completely secured and that each lever stays tight to the cross rails. (Fig. 14)

- Thanks to Ron Erman

The power liftgate may not function on 2010 SRX models also equipped with a sunroof. 

Inspect the liftgate pump to determine if water may be in the pump well area. Drivers may also notice wet carpet or a water leak condition. 

If water is found in the pump well area, check the sunroof drain hoses in the left rear corner of the vehicle. The hose coupler may not be properly seated on the drain. (Fig. 15)

Reassemble the drain hose, clean any area affected by the water and replace any water damaged components as necessary. 

- Thanks to Jeremy Richardson

If it is determined through proper diagnosis that the passenger's side heated seat cushion element on a 2009-2010 Impala is inoperative and needs to be replaced, order and install the MODULE KIT, INFL RST FRT PASS PRESENCE. The module kit includes the Passenger Presence System (PPS) sensor, heated seat element, and seat cushion. 

Beginning with the 2009 model year, the PPS sensor is located on top of the heated seat element. The module kit is required because attempting to remove or install the PPS sensor and the heated seat element will damage the components as well as the seat cushion. 

TIP: Currently, the Electronic Parts Catalog may have the heated seat element available for the passenger's seat. However, there is no way to install the heated seat element under the PPS sensor without damaging the PPS sensor or seat foam. In addition, the heated seat element should not be installed on top of the PPS sensor. Use the module kit only. 

The Service Information does list a procedure for replacing the heated seat element for the passenger's and/or driver's front seat. This procedure is intended for the driver's seat only and is being updated. 

- Thanks to David Eplin

After radio/silverbox (SBX) replacement on 2010 LaCrosse, SRX, Equinox and Terrain models equipped with radio RPO UYZ, the radio may turn off within 5-7 seconds of turning off the ignition. 

When the radio was replaced, the Manufacture Enable Counter (MEC) may not have been reset to zero. A new service SBX MEC is set at 255. Unlike other radios, on these models each drive cycle takes 10 minutes and 8 seconds of ignition On time to count as an ignition cycle, which drops the MEC counter down by one. Cycling the ignition would take a considerable amount of time to zero a MEC starting from 255. 

To enable the Retained Accessory Power (RAP) feature, zero the MEC using the GDS scan tool. Connect the GDS scan tool to the vehicle and perform the Retained Accessory Power function located under the Radio; Control Functions selection. Verify RAP operation is functioning correctly. 

Do not replace the radio for this condition. 

- Thanks to Jeremy Richardson

When installing a replacement rear leaf spring on the 2004-2009 Colorado or Canyon, technicians may notice a change in the diameter of the center alignment bolt on the replacement spring. 

Inspect the replacement spring center alignment bolt. If the head of the bolt measures approximately 15mm, it is a new design spring. 

Perform the following modification to allow installation of the replacement spring to the axle: 

1.     Obtain a 19/32" drill bit. 

TIP: Do not make a substitution for this drill bit size. Failure to use the specified size could alter the alignment of the vehicle and the driveline. 

2.     Carefully center the drill bit on the hole in the mounting plate on the axle and enlarge the hole. 

3.     Install the replacement spring, verifying proper fit to the axle. (Fig. 16)

- Thanks to Jeremy Richardson

10210.04D - Emerging Issues 

April 8, 2010 

To view Emerging Issues seminars:

Log in to www.gmtraining.com, select Service Know-How/TECHAssist from the menu, select Emerging Issues, and then Searchable Streaming Video to choose the current Emerging Issues seminar or past programs.