Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Part 2

Diagnostic Tips
During diagnosis, you can compare the LDP solenoid activity with the monitor sequence in Figure 6. If the PCM detects a problem that could set a DTC, the testing is halted and LDP solenoid activity will stop. As each section of the test begins, it indicates that the previous section passed success- fully. By watching to see which tests complete, you can see if any conditions are present that the PCM considers abnormal.

For example, if the LDP solenoid is energized for the test cycles to test for blockage (P 1486), it means that the LDP has already passed its test for P1494. Then, if the PCM detects a possible blockage, it will set a temporary fault without turning ON the MIL and continue the leak portion of the test. However, the PCM will assume that the system is already pressurized and skip the rapid pump cycles.

Always diagnose leaks, if possible, before disconnecting connections. Disconnecting connections may mask a leak condition.

Keep in mind that if the purge solenoid seat is leaking, it could go undetected since the leak would end up in the intake manifold. Disconnect the purge solenoid at the manifold when leak checking. In addition, a pinched hose fault (P1486) could set if the purge solenoid does not purge the fuel system properly (blocked seat). The purge solenoid must vent the fuel system prior to the LDP system test. If the purge solenoid cannot properly vent the system the LDP cannot properly complete the test for P1486 and this fault can be set due to pressure being in the EVAP system during the test sequence.

Multiple actuation's of the DRB III Leak Detection Pump (LDP) Monitor Test can hide a 0.020 leak because of excess vapor generation. Additionally, any source for additional vapor generation can hide a small leak in the EVAP system. Excess vapor generation can delay the fall of the LDP diaphragm thus hiding the small leak. An example of this condition could be bringing a cold vehicle into a warm shop for testing for high ambient temperatures.

Fully plugged and partially plugged underhood vacuum lines have been known to set MIL conditions. P1494 and P0456 can be set for this reason. Always, thoroughly, check plumbing for pinches or blockage before condemning components.

Test Equipment
The Evaporative Emission Leak Detector (EELD) Miller Special Tool 8404 is capable of visually detecting leaks in the evaporative system and will take the place of the ultrasonic leak detector 6917A. The EELD utilizes shop air and a smoke generator to visually detect leaks down to 0.020 or smaller. The food grade oil used to make the smoke includes an UV trace dye that will leave telltale signs of the leak under a black light. This is helpful when components have to be removed to determine the exact leak location. For detailed test instructions, follow the operators manual packaged with the EELD.

Important
Be sure that the PCM has the latest software update. Reprogram as indicated by any applicable Technical Service Bulletin. After LDP repairs are completed, verify the repair by running the DRB III Leak Detection Pump (LDP) Monitor Test as described in Technical Service Bulletin 18-12-99.

NON-MONITORED CIRCUITS
The PCM does not monitor the following circuits, systems, and conditions even though they could have malfunctions that result in driveability problems. A diagnostic code may not be displayed for the following conditions. However, problems with these systems may cause a diagnostic code to be displayed for other systems. For example, a fuel pressure problem will not register a diagnostic code directly, but could cause a rich or lean condition. This could cause an oxygen sensor, fuel system, or misfire monitor trouble code to be stored in the PCM.

Engine Timing - The PCM cannot detect an incorrectly indexed timing chain, camshaft sprocket, or crankshaft sprocket. The PCM also cannot detect an incorrectly indexed distributor or Cam Sensor.(*)

Fuel Pressure - Fuel pressure is controlled by the fuel pressure regulator. The PCM cannot detect a clogged fuel pump inlet filter, clogged in-line filter, or a pinched fuel supply.(*)

Fuel Injectors - The PCM cannot detect a clogged fuel injector, a sticking pintle, or that an incorrect injector is installed.(*)

Fuel Requirements - Poor quality gasoline can cause problems such as hard starting, stalling, and stumble. Use of methanol-gasoline blends may result in starting and driveability problems. (See individual symptoms and their definitions in Glossary of Terms).

PCM Grounds - The PCM cannot detect a poor system ground. However, a diagnostic trouble code may be stored in the PCM as a result of this condition.

Throttle Body Air Flow - The PCM cannot detect a clogged or restricted air cleaner inlet or filter element.(*)

Exhaust System - The PCM cannot detect a plugged, restricted, or leaking exhaust system.(*)

Cylinder Compression - The PCM cannot detect uneven, low, or high engine cylinder compression.(*)

Excessive Oil Consumption - Although the PCM monitors the exhaust oxygen content through the oxygen sensor when the system is in a closed loop, it cannot determine excessive oil consumption.

NOTE: Any of these conditions could result in a rich or lean condition causing an oxygen sensor trouble code to be stored in the PCM, or the vehicle may exhibit one or more of the driveability symptoms listed in the Table of Contents.

SKIS OVERVIEW
The Sentry Key Immobilizer System (SKIS) is an immobilizer system designed to prevent unauthorized vehicle operation. The system consists of Sentry Key Immobilizer Module (SKIM) sends a PCI Bus message to the engine controller indicating ignition key status. Upon receiving this message the PCM will terminate engine operation or allow the engine to continue to operate.

SKIM ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTICS
The SKIM has been programmed to transmit and monitor many different coded messages as well as PCI Bus messages. This monitoring is called "On-Board Diagnosis".

Certain criteria must be met for a diagnostic trouble code to be entered into the SKIM memory. The criteria may be a range of Input voltage, PCI Bus message, or coded messages to the SKIM. If all of the criteria for monitoring a circuit or function are met and a fault is sensed, a diagnostic trouble code will be stored in the SKIM memory.

SKIS OPERATION
When ignition power is supplied to the SKIM, the SKIM performs an internal self-test. After the self-test is completed, the SKIM energizes the antenna (this activates the transponder chip) and sends a challenge to the transponder chip. The transponder chip responds to the challenge by generating an encrypted response message using the following:

Secret Key - This is an electronically stored value (identification number) that is unique to each SKIS. The secret key is stored in the SKIM, PCM, and all ignition key transponders.

Challenge - This is a random number that is generated by the SKIM at each ignition key cycle. The secret key and challenge are the two variables used in the algorithm that produces the crypto algorithm to receive, decode and respond to the message sent by the SKIM. After responding to the coded message, the transponder sends a transponder ID message to the SKIM. The SKIM compares the transponder ID to the available valid ignition key codes in the SKIM memory (8 key maximum). After validating the key, the SKIM sends a PCI Bus message called a "Seed Request" to the engine controller then waits for a PCM response. If the PCM does not respond, the SKIM will send the seed request again. After three failed attempts, the SKIM will stop sending the seed request and store a trouble code. If the PCM sends a seed response, the SKIM sends a valid/invalid key message to the PCM. This is an encrypted message that is generated using the following:
- VIN - Vehicle Identification Number
- Seed - This is a random number that is generated by the PCM at each ignition key cycle.

The VIN and seed are the two variables used in the rolling code algorithm that encrypts the "valid/ invalid key" message. The PCM uses the rolling code algorithm to receive, decode and respond to the valid/invalid key message sent by the SKIM. After sending the valid/invalid key message the SKIM waits 3.5 seconds for a PCM status message from the PCM. If the PCM does not respond with a valid key message to the SKIM, a fault is detected and a trouble code is stored. The SKIS incorporates a warning lamp located in the instrument cluster. The lamp receives power and ground from the instrument cluster. The lamp is actuated when the SKIM sends a PCI Bus message to the instrument cluster requesting the lamp ON. The SKIM will request warning lamp illumination for:
- Bulb checks at ignition ON
- To alert the vehicle operator to a SKIS malfunction
- Customer key programming mode

For all faults except transponder faults and VIN mismatch, the lamp remains ON steady. In the event of a transponder fault the light flashes at a rate of 1 Hz (once per second). If a fault is present the lamp will remain ON or flashing for the complete ignition cycle. If a fault is stored in SKIM memory which prevents the system from operating properly, the PCM will allow the engine to start and run (for two seconds) up to six times. After the sixth attempt the PCM will not allow engine to start.

PROGRAMMING THE POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE

IMPORTANT NOTE: Before replacing the PCM for a failed driver, control circuit or ground circuit, be sure to check the related component/circuit integrity for failures not detected due to a double fault in the circuit. Most PCM driver/control circuit failures are caused by internal failure to components (i.e. relay and solenoids) and short circuits (i.e. 12-volt pull-ups, drivers and ground sensors). These failures are difficult to detect when a double fault has occurred and only one DTC has set.

NOTE: If the PCM and the SKIM are replaced at the same time, program the VIN into the PCM first. All vehicle keys will then need to be replaced and programmed to the new SKIM.

The SKIS "Secret Key" is an ID code that is unique to each SKIS. This code is programmed and stored in the SKIM, PCM and transponder chip (ignition key). When replacing the PCM it is necessary to program the secret key into the PCM.

1. Turn the ignition ON (transmission in park/ neutral).
2. Use the DRB III and select "THEFT ALARM", "SKIM" then "MISCELLANEOUS".
3. Select "PCM REPLACED".
4. Enter secured access mode by entering the vehicle four-digit PIN.

NOTE: If three attempts are made to enter the secure access mode using an incorrect PIN, secured access mode will be locked out for one hour. To exit this lockout mode, turn the ignition to the RUN position for one hour then enter the correct PIN. (Ensure all accessories are turned OFF. Also, monitor the battery state and connect a battery charger if necessary).

5. Press "ENTER" to transfer the secret key (the SKIM will send the secret key to the PCM).

PROGRAMMING THE SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER MODULE

NOTE: If the PCM and the SKIM are replaced at the same time, program the VIN into the PCM first. All vehicle keys will then need to be replaced and programmed to the new SKIM.

1. Turn the ignition ON (transmission in park/neutral).
2. Use the DRB III and select "THEFT ALARM", "SKIM", then "MISCELLANEOUS".
3. Select "SKIM MODULE REPLACEMENT (GASOLINE)".
4. Program the vehicle four-digit PIN into the SKIM.
5. Select "COUNTRY CODE" and enter the correct country.

NOTE: Be sure to enter the correct country code. If the incorrect country code is programmed into SKIM, the SKIM must be replaced.

6. Select "UPDATE VIN" (the SKIM will learn the VIN from the PCM).
7 Press "ENTER" to transfer the VIN (the PCM will send the VIN to the SKIM).
8 The DRB III will ask if you want to transfer the secret key from the PCM. This will ensure the current vehicle ignition keys will still operate the SKIS system.

PROGRAMMING THE IGNITION KEYS TO THE SENTRY KEY IMMOBILIZER MODULE
1. Turn the ignition ON (transmission in park' neutral).
2. Use the DRB III and select "THEFT ALARM", "SKIM" then "MISCELLANEOUS".
3. Select "PROGRAM IGNITION KEYS".
4. Enter secured access mode by entering the vehicle four-digit PIN.

NOTE: A maximum of eight keys can be learned to each SKIM. Once a key is learned to a SKIM, the key cannot be transferred to another vehicle.

If ignition key programming is unsuccessful, the DRB III will display one of the following messages:

Program Not Attempted - The DRB III attempts to read the programmed key status and there are no keys programmed in the SKIM memory.

Programming Key Failed - (Possible Used Key From Wrong Vehicle) - SKIM is unable to program key due to one of the following:
- faulty ignition key transponder.
- ignition key is programmed to another vehicle.

8 Keys Already Learned, Programming Not Done - SKIM transponder ID memory is full.
- Obtain ignition keys to be programmed from customer (8 keys maximum).
- Using the DRB III, erase all ignition keys by selecting "MISCELLANEOUS" and "ERASE ALL CURRENT IGN. KEYS".
- Program all ignition keys.

Learned Key In Ignition - Ignition key transponder ID is currently programmed in SKIM memory.