Instrument Cluster / Carrier: Description and Operation

Instrument Cluster:

The Instrument Cluster (IC) is located in the instrument panel and provides the driver with vehicle speed (speedometer), engine speed (tachometer), fuel level (fuel gauge), engine temperature (temperature gauge), gear position (PRNDL), odometer and two trip odometers with Mi or Km unit displayed and compass mini trip information. The instrument cluster displays various status and warning messages using a reconfigurable Vacuum Fluorescent (VF) display. Fixed ISO indicators and the fixed VF displays provide the following status and warning indicators using hard indicators:
- Low Fuel (Amber LED)
- High Engine Temperature (Red LED)
- Right and Left Turn Signals (Green LED's)
- ABS (Amber LED)
- Traction Control or Acceleration Skid Control (ASR) - (Amber LED)
- Brake (Red LED)
- Seat Belt (Red LED)
- Airbag (Red LED)
- Battery Charging Failure (Red LED)
- High Beam (Blue LED)
- Oil Pressure (Red LED)
- Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) (Amber LED)
- Front Fog lamps (Green LED)
- Cruise Set (Right VF Display)
- Overdrive Off (Right VF Display)
- AutoStick (Right VF Display)
- Tire Pressure Monitoring (Amber LED)
- EVIC Display (Left VF Display)

The cluster Thin Filmed Transistor (TFT) screen (if so equipped) shall have the capability to display vehicle navigation information (such as maps and turn-by-turn direction) as input by the navigation module.

ELECTRONIC VEHICLE INFORMATION CENTER
The Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) is part of the instrument cluster. The EVIC display screen is located in the left lower corner of the cluster.

The EVIC portion of the instrument cluster contains a central processing unit that interfaces with other electronic modules in the vehicle over the Programmable Communications Interface (PCI) data bus circuit. The PCI data bus circuit allows the sharing of sensor information.

The EVIC "Menu" push button provides the vehicle operator with a user interface, which allows the selection of several optional customer programmable electronic features to suit individual preferences. Refer to the owners manual for more information on the customer programmable feature options. Data input for all EVIC functions is received through the PCI data bus circuit. The EVIC uses its internal programming and all of its data inputs to calculate and display the requested data.

The EVIC cannot be repaired. If found defective, the entire cluster must be replaced.

The Instrument Cluster (IC) receives and sends messages via the Programmable Communication Interface (PCI) data bus. The indicator lamps will illuminate briefly for a bulb check when the ignition is turned from off to run. All of the gauges receive their information via the PCI Bus from the Next Generation Controller (NGC) and the Body Control Module (BCM).

The Customer Information System (CIS) main control module is the cluster. The cluster uses a microprocessor to process information to/from the PCI data bus and direct hard wired inputs from the Park Brake Switch, EVIC, Turn Signals, and optional NAV buttons. The Pulse Width Modulated (PWM) Dimming hard wired signal is provided by the cluster, to modules and lamps that require PWM Dimming. The PWM Dimming hard wired Signal is created from the Dimming PCI bus message sent by the BCM. The cluster will receive a "Wake-up" signal from the BCM and a "battery" feed from the Integrated Power Module (IPM) for power control/supply. cluster PCI data bus communicate with the Controller Anti-Lock Brake (CAB), Body Control Module (BCM), Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC), Driver Door Module (DDM), Intelligent Power Module (IPM), Navigation Module (NAV), Next Generation Controller (NGC combines former Powertrain Control Module and Transmission Control Module functions), Occupant Restraint Controller (ORC), Passenger Door Module (PDM), Sentry Key Remote Entry Module (SKREEM), and the DRBIII(R) scan tool (via the data link connector).

Red-Green-Blue (RGB) Video data will be received from the Navigation module, for display on the Thin Filmed Transistor (TFT) screen (if equipped).

The Instrument Panel Switch Pod is the secondary part of the CIS. The switch pod will contain an Analog Clock (w/time adjust button), Hazard Switch, EVIC and NAV (optional) controls, and Vehicle Theft Security System (VTSS) LED.

The Instrument Cluster has four gauges: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel, and temperature. The gauges and the LED's are not individually replaceable thereby requiring complete replacement of the Instrument Cluster if a repair is necessary. In the event that the Instrument Cluster loses communication with other modules on the PCI Bus, the cluster will display 9no bus9 in the VF display.

The Trip/Reset button is used to switch the display from trip to total mileage. Holding the button when the display is in the trip mode will reset the trip mileage. This button is also used to put the cluster into self-diagnostic mode. The odometer display uses blue-green vacuum fluorescent digital characters. The Instrument Cluster uses a vacuum-fluorescent shift indicator (PRND8) with auto stick.

Charging System Indicator:

CHARGING SYSTEM INDICATOR - This Light Emitting Diode (LED) indicator monitors the electrical system voltage. The LED should turn on momentarily as the engine is started. If the LED stays on or turns on while driving, it indicates a problem with the charging system. Immediate service should be obtained.

Airbag Indicator:

AIRBAG INDICATOR - This Light Emitting Diode (LED) turns on and remains on for 6 to 8 seconds as a bulb check when the ignition switch is first turned ON. If the light is not on during starting, stays on, or turns on while driving.

Low Fuel Indicator:

LOW FUEL INDICATOR - This Light Emitting Diode (LED) indicator will illuminate when the fuel level reaches a predetermined low level of fuel and a chime will sound. It will stay lit until the fuel level is raised.

Brake Warning Indicator:

BRAKE WARNING INDICATOR - This Light Emitting Diode (LED) indicator monitors various brake functions, including brake fluid level and parking brake application. If the LED turns on, it may indicate that the parking brake is applied or there is a low brake fluid level. The dual brake system provides a reserve braking capacity in the event of a failure to a portion of the hydraulic system. Failure of either half of the dual brake system is indicated by the Brake Warning Indicator which will turn on when the brake fluid level in the master cylinder has dropped below a specified level. The LED will remain on until the cause is corrected. The LED may flash momentarily during sharp cornering maneuvers which change fluid level conditions. The vehicle should have service performed. If brake failure is indicated, immediate repair is necessary. Vehicles equipped with Anti-Lock brakes (ABS), are also equipped with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD). In the event of an EBD failure, the Brake Warning Indicator will turn on along with the ABS Indicator. Immediate repair to the ABS system is required. The operation of the Brake Warning Indicator can be checked by turning the ignition switch from the OFF position to the ON position. The LED should illuminate for approximately two seconds. The LED should then turn off unless the parking brake is applied or a brake fault is detected. The LED also will turn on when the parking brake is applied with the ignition switch in the ON position. This LED shows only that the parking brake is applied. It does not show the degree of brake application.

Front Fog Lamp Indicator:

FRONT FOG LAMP INDICATOR - This Light Emitting Diode (LED) indicator shows the front fog lights are ON.

High Beam Indicator:

HIGH BEAM INDICATOR - This Light Emitting Diode (LED) shows that the headlights are on high beam. Pull the Multi-Function lever towards the steering wheel to switch the headlights from high or low beam.

High Engine Temperature Indicator:

HIGH ENGINE TEMPERATURE INDICATOR - This Light Emitting Diode (LED) warns of an overheated engine condition. If this LED is accompanied by a continuous chime, the engine temperature is critically hot, and the vehicle should be turned off immediately. The vehicle should be serviced as soon as possible.

ABS Indicator:

ABS INDICATOR - This Light Emitting Diode (LED) monitors the Anti-Lock Brake System. The LED will turn on when the ignition switch is turned to the ON position and may stay on for as long as four seconds. If the ABS indicator remains on or turns on while driving, it indicates that the Anti-Lock portion of the brake system is not functioning and that service is required. However, the conventional brake system will continue to operate normally if the BRAKE warning indicator is not on. If the ABS indicator is on, the brake system should be serviced as soon as possible to restore the benefits of Anti-Lock brakes. If the ABS indicator does not turn on when the Ignition switch is turned to the ON position, refer to the appropriate Body Diagnostic Procedures.

MalFunction Indicator:

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR - This Light Emitting Diode (LED) indicator is part of an onboard diagnostic system called OBD that monitors engine and automatic transmission control systems. The indicator will illuminate when the key is in the ON position before engine start. If the LED does not come on when turning the key from OFF to ON, have the condition checked promptly. Certain conditions such as a loose or missing gas cap, poor fuel quality, etc. may illuminate the indicator after engine start. The vehicle should be serviced if the indicator stays on through several of your typical driving cycles. In most situations the vehicle will drive normally and will not require towing. The Malfunction Indicator flashes to alert you to serious conditions that could lead to immediate loss of power or severe catalytic converter damage. The vehicle should be serviced as soon as possible if this occurs.

Low Oil Pressure Indicator:

LOW OIL PRESSURE INDICATOR - This Light Emitting Diode (LED) shows low engine oil pressure. The LED should turn on momentarily when the engine is started. If the LED turns on while driving, stop the vehicle and shut off the engine as soon as possible. A continuous chime will sound when this LED turns on. Do not operate the vehicle until the cause is corrected. This LED does not show how much oil is in the engine. The engine oil level must be checked under the hood.

Seat Belt Indicator:

SEAT BELT INDICATOR - The Light Emitting Diode (LED will turn on when the ignition switch is turned to the ON position as a reminder to "buckle up". The LED will remain on until the driver's seat belt is buckled. The chime will sound for 6 seconds, or until the seat belt is buckled.

Tire Pressure Monitor System Indicator:

TIRE PRESSURE MONITOR SYSTEM INDICATOR - This Light Emitting Diode (LED) will turn on when there is a low tire pressure condition. The LED will also turn on if a problem exist with any tire sensor. The LED will remain on until the tire pressure is properly set or the problem with the sensor is corrected. This LED will turn on monetarily as a bulb check when the engine is started.

Traction Control Or Acceleration Skid Control (ASR) Indicator:

TRACTION CONTROL OR ACCELERATION SKID CONTROL (ASR) INDICATOR - This Light Emitting Diode (LED) indicator illuminates momentarily as a bulb check when the ignition switch is first turned ON. Extended heavy use of Traction Control/ASR may cause the system to deactivate and turn on the Traction Control/ASR Indicator. This is to prevent overheating of the brake system and is a normal condition. The system will remain disabled for about 4 minutes until the brakes have cooled. The system will automatically reactivate and turn off the Traction Control/ASR Indicator. The traction control/ASR indicator will turn on if:
- The traction control/ASR system is in use.
- The Traction Control/ASR switch has been used to turn the system OFF.
- There is a Traction Control/ASR System malfunction.
- The system has been deactivated to prevent damage to the brake system due to overheated brake temperatures.

Turn Signal Indicator:

TURN SIGNAL INDICATORS - The arrow will flash with the exterior turn signal when the turn signal lever is operated. If the vehicle electronics sense that the vehicle has traveled about one mile with the turn signals on, a chime will sound to alert you to turn the signals off. If either indicator flashes at a rapid rate, check for a defective outside light bulb.

TEMPERATURE GAUGE - This Light Emitting Diode (LED) monitors the electrical system voltage. The LED should turn on momentarily as the engine is started. If the LED stays on or turns on while driving, it indicates a problem with the charging system. Immediate service should be obtained. The gauge pointer will likely indicate a higher temperature when driving in hot weather, up mountain grades, or when towing a trailer. It should not be allowed to exceed the upper limits of the normal operating range.
FUEL GAUGE - The pointer shows the level of fuel in the fuel tank when the ignition switch is in the ON position.
SPEEDOMETER - Indicates vehicle speed.
TACHOMETER - The red segments indicate the maximum permissible engine revolutions-per-minute (r.p.m. x 1000) for each gear range. Before reaching the red area, ease up on the accelerator.
TRANSMISSION RANGE INDICATOR -This Vacuum Fluorescent (VF) display indicator shows the automatic transmission gear selection.
AUTOSTICK INDICATOR- This Vacuum Fluorescent (VF) display indicator illuminates when the gearshift lever is moved to the AutoStick position.
ODOMETER/TRIP ODOMETER - The odometer shows the total distance the vehicle has been driven. It is a Vacuum Fluorescent (VF) display. The two trip odometers show individual trip mileage. To switch from odometer to trip odometers, press and release the Trip Odometer button. To reset a trip odometer, display the desired trip odometer to be reset then push and hold the button until the display resets (approximately 2 seconds).
TRIP ODOMETER BUTTON - Press this button to change the display from odometer to either of the two trip odometer settings. The word TRIP and either "A" or "B" will appear when in the trip odometer mode. Push in and hold the button for two seconds to reset the trip odometer to 0 miles or kilometers. The odometer must be in trip mode to reset.
CRUISE INDICATOR - This Vacuum Fluorescent (VF) display indicator shows that the Speed Control System is ON.
NAVIGATION SCREEN - Displays the current navigation system functions.
ELECTRONIC VEHICLE INFORMATION CENTER (EVIC) DISPLAY - When the appropriate conditions exist, this Vacuum Fluorescent (VF) display shows the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) messages.

ELECTRONIC VEHICLE INFORMATION CENTER
The EVIC has access to both non-switched and ignition switched sources of battery current so that some of its features remain operational at any time, while others may only operate with the ignition switch in the ON position. When the ignition switch is turned to the ON position, the EVIC display will return to the last function being displayed before the ignition was turned to the OFF position.

For more information on the features, control functions and setting procedures for the EVIC, see the owner's manual in the vehicle glove box.

WARNING
- THIS VEHICLE CONTAINS MERCURY ADDED DEVICES ADDED BY THE MANUFACTURER: NAVIGATION DISPLAY WITHIN THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER. REMOVE DEVICES BEFORE VEHICLE DISPOSAL. UPON REMOVAL OF DEVICES, PLEASE REUSE, RECYCLE, OR DISPOSE OF AS HAZARDOUS WASTE.
- THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER PRODUCES 230 VOLTS. PROPER CARE SHOULD BE TAKEN WHEN WORKING AROUND, NEAR, OR WITH THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER. FOLLOW STEPS OUTLINED IN THE BODY DIAGNOSTIC INFORMATION WHEN TESTING. FAILURE TO FOLLOW SAFETY PROCEDURES COULD RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.
- ALWAYS DISCONNECT AND ISOLATE THE BATTERY NEGATIVE CABLE PRIOR TO ANY AIRBAG SYSTEM, INSTRUMENT PANEL, STEERING COLUMN, OR CLUSTER REMOVAL. WAIT TWO MINUTES TO ALLOW THE AIRBAG SYSTEM RESERVE CAPACITOR TO DISCHARGE BEFORE BEGINNING SERVICE. FAILURE TO DO SO COULD RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.