The PCM (Powertrain Control Module) constantly looks at the information from
various sensors and other inputs and controls systems that affect vehicle
performance and emissions. The PCM also performs diagnostic tests on various
parts of the system. The PCM can recognize operational problems and alert the
driver via the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL). When the PCM detects a malfunction,
the PCM stores a diagnostic trouble code (DTC). The problem area is identified by
the particular DTC that is set. The control module supplies a buffered voltage to
various sensors and switches. The input and output devices in the PCM include
analog to digital converters, signal buffers, counters, and output drivers. The output
drivers are electronic switches which complete a ground or voltage circuit when
turned on. Most PCM controlled components are operated via output drivers. The
PCM monitors these driver circuits for proper operation and, in most cases, can set
a DTC corresponding to the controlled device if a problem is detected.
The PCM is programmed with test routines that test the operation of the various
systems the PCM controls. Some tests monitor internal PCM functions. Many tests
are run continuously. Other tests run only under specific conditions, referred to as
Conditions for Running the DTC. When the vehicle is operating within the conditions
for running a particular test, the PCM monitors certain parameters and determines
whether or not the values are within an expected range. The parameters and values
considered outside the range of normal operation are listed as Conditions for
Setting the DTC. When the Conditions for Setting the DTC occur, the PCM executes
the Action Taken When the DTC Sets. Some DTCs alert the driver via the MIL or a
message. Other DTCs do not trigger a driver warning, but are stored in memory.
Refer to the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Types for a complete list of PCM DTCs
and the driver alerts the DTCs trigger. The PCM also saves data and input
parameters when most DTCs are set. This data is stored in the Freeze
Frame/Failure Records.
DTCs are categorized by type. The DTC type is determined by the MIL operation
and the manner in which the fault data is stored when a particular DTC fails. In some
cases there may be exceptions to this structure. Therefore, it is important to read
the Action Taken When the DTC Sets and the Conditions for Clearing the MIL/DTC
in the supporting text when diagnosing the system.
There are different types of DTCs and the action they take when set. Refer to
Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Type Definitions for a description of the general
characteristics of each DTC type.
The PCM is designed to maintain exhaust emission levels to Federal/California/other
standards while providing excellent driveability and fuel efficiency. Review the
components and wiring diagrams in order to determine which systems are controlled
by the PCM. The PCM monitors numerous engine and vehicle functions. The
following are some of the functions that the PCM controls:
3.1 / 3.4 L v6 engine data sensor locations.
• The engine fueling
• The ignition control (IC)
• The knock sensor (KS) system
• The evaporative emissions (EVAP) system
• The secondary air injection (AIR) system (if equipped)
• The exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system
• The automatic transmission functions
• The generator
• The A/C clutch control
• The cooling fan control
various sensors and other inputs and controls systems that affect vehicle
performance and emissions. The PCM also performs diagnostic tests on various
parts of the system. The PCM can recognize operational problems and alert the
driver via the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL). When the PCM detects a malfunction,
the PCM stores a diagnostic trouble code (DTC). The problem area is identified by
the particular DTC that is set. The control module supplies a buffered voltage to
various sensors and switches. The input and output devices in the PCM include
analog to digital converters, signal buffers, counters, and output drivers. The output
drivers are electronic switches which complete a ground or voltage circuit when
turned on. Most PCM controlled components are operated via output drivers. The
PCM monitors these driver circuits for proper operation and, in most cases, can set
a DTC corresponding to the controlled device if a problem is detected.
The PCM is programmed with test routines that test the operation of the various
systems the PCM controls. Some tests monitor internal PCM functions. Many tests
are run continuously. Other tests run only under specific conditions, referred to as
Conditions for Running the DTC. When the vehicle is operating within the conditions
for running a particular test, the PCM monitors certain parameters and determines
whether or not the values are within an expected range. The parameters and values
considered outside the range of normal operation are listed as Conditions for
Setting the DTC. When the Conditions for Setting the DTC occur, the PCM executes
the Action Taken When the DTC Sets. Some DTCs alert the driver via the MIL or a
message. Other DTCs do not trigger a driver warning, but are stored in memory.
Refer to the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Types for a complete list of PCM DTCs
and the driver alerts the DTCs trigger. The PCM also saves data and input
parameters when most DTCs are set. This data is stored in the Freeze
Frame/Failure Records.
DTCs are categorized by type. The DTC type is determined by the MIL operation
and the manner in which the fault data is stored when a particular DTC fails. In some
cases there may be exceptions to this structure. Therefore, it is important to read
the Action Taken When the DTC Sets and the Conditions for Clearing the MIL/DTC
in the supporting text when diagnosing the system.
There are different types of DTCs and the action they take when set. Refer to
Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Type Definitions for a description of the general
characteristics of each DTC type.
The PCM is designed to maintain exhaust emission levels to Federal/California/other
standards while providing excellent driveability and fuel efficiency. Review the
components and wiring diagrams in order to determine which systems are controlled
by the PCM. The PCM monitors numerous engine and vehicle functions. The
following are some of the functions that the PCM controls:
3.1 / 3.4 L v6 engine data sensor locations.
• The engine fueling
• The ignition control (IC)
• The knock sensor (KS) system
• The evaporative emissions (EVAP) system
• The secondary air injection (AIR) system (if equipped)
• The exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system
• The automatic transmission functions
• The generator
• The A/C clutch control
• The cooling fan control
| 3.1 L and 3.4 L V6 engine electronic control system description. |
