Actuator Test

Actuator Test
The instrument cluster actuator test will put the instrument cluster into its self-diagnostic mode. In this mode the instrument cluster can perform a self- diagnostic test that will confirm that the instrument cluster circuitry, the gauges, the PCI data bus message controlled indicator lamps, and the chime tone generator are capable of operating as designed. During the actuator test the instrument cluster circuitry will sound the chime tone generator, position each of the gauge needles at various specified calibration points, illuminate each of the segments in the Vacuum-Fluorescent Display (VFD), and turn all of the PCI data bus message-controlled indicators ON and OFF again.

Successful completion of the actuator test will confirm that the instrument cluster is operational. How- ever, there may still be a problem with the PCI data bus, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the Air- bag Control Module (ACM), the Sentry Key Immobilizer Module (SKIM), or the inputs to one of these electronic control modules. Use a DRBIII scan tool to diagnose these components. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.

If an individual gauge does not respond properly, or does not respond at all during the actuator test, the instrument cluster should be removed. However, check that the screws securing the inoperative gauge to the instrument cluster electronic circuit board are properly tightened before considering instrument cluster replacement. If the gauge mounting screws check OK, replace the faulty instrument cluster.


1. Begin the test with the ignition switch in the OFF position.
2. Depress the odometer/trip odometer switch button.
3. While still holding the odometer/trip odometer switch button depressed, turn the ignition switch to the ON position, but do not start the engine
4. Release the odometer/trip odometer switch button.
5. The instrument cluster will automatically begin the actuator test sequence, as follows:
a. The cluster will generate a single chime tone to confirm the functionality of the chime tone generator and the chime control circuitry.
b. The cluster will scroll the number "8" across the odometer/trip odometer VFD to confirm the functionality of all VFD segments and their control circuitry.
c. The cluster will illuminate the decimal point in the odometer/trip odometer VFD to confirm the functionality of this VFD segment and its control circuitry.
d. The cluster will display the EMIC software level in the odometer/trip odometer VFD (example: "SOF 8.9").
e. The cluster will display the last six digits (sequence number) of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) in the odometer/trip odometer VFD.
f. If any faults have been set by the cluster, the cluster will display the fault information in the odometer/trip odometer VFD. If no faults have been set, the cluster will scroll "no FAULTS" across the odometer/trip odometer VFD.
g. The cluster will turn ON, then OFF again each of the following indicators, one at a time, in sequence to confirm the functionality of the indicator and the cluster control circuitry:
- High Beam
- Brake
- Seatbelt
- MIL
- Check Gauges
- Low Fuel
- Full Time
- Part Time
- SKIS
- Cruise
- Upshift

h. The cluster will sweep the needles for each of the following gauges, one at a time, to several calibration points in sequence to confirm the functionality of the gauge and the cluster control circuitry:
- Speedometer
- Fuel
- Temperature
- Tachometer
- Voltage
- Oil Pressure

6. The actuator test is now completed. The instrument cluster will automatically exit the self-diagnostic mode and return to normal operation at the completion of the test, if the ignition switch is turned to the OFF position during the test, or if a vehicle speed message indicating that the vehicle is moving is received from the PCM over the PCI data bus during the test.
7. Go back to Step 1 to repeat the test, if required.