Engine Control Module: Testing and Inspection
POWERTRAIN RELAY DIAGNOSISCIRCUIT DESCRIPTION
The powertrain relay is a normally open relay. The relay armature is held in the open position by spring tension. Battery positive voltage is supplied directly to the relay coil and the armature contact at all times. The powertrain control module (PCM) supplies the ground path to the relay coil control circuit, via an internal integrated circuit called an output driver module (ODM). When the PCM commands the relay ON, the relay coil creates an electromagnetic field.
This electromagnetic field overcomes the spring tension and pulls the armature contact into the stationary contact of the relay load circuit. The closing of the relay contacts allows current to flow from the battery to the following fuses and relay.
- The ETC FUSE
- The EMISSION FUSE
- The A/C CLUTCH RELAY
When the ignition switch is turned to the OFF position, power is interrupted to the output driver module in the PCM, and the relay electromagnetic field collapses. This action allows the spring tension pulling on the armature to separate from the relay load circuit contact, which interrupts current flow to the fuses and relay.
If the powertrain relay fails to close the engine will crank, but may or may not run. The class II communications will be available with the use of a scan tool.
The powertrain relay system diagnosis table assumes that the vehicle battery is fully charged.
TEST
Steps 1 - 2:
Steps 3 - 5:
Steps 6 - 8:
Steps 9 - 11:
Steps 12 - 14:
Steps 15 - 18:
Step 19:
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Steps 22 - 24:
Steps 25 - 29:
