Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

PCM Controlled Warning Lamps

The oil level switch, the oil pressure switch and the coolant level switch are connected to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). If a low oil level condition, a low oil pressure condition, or a low coolant level condition is detected, the PCM will send a signal to the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC). The IPC will receive this signal from the PCM and the IPC will then illuminate the warning lamp.

The electronic instrument cluster uses 3 telltale lamps. A Check Oil telltale lamp that indicates a low oil level condition. A Low Oil Pressure telltale lamp indicates low engine oil pressure. A Low Coolant Level telltale lamp indicates a low coolant level condition. The purpose of these lamps are to warn the operator of potential engine damaging conditions.

If any of the warning lamps are illuminated, then a condition is present that may cause engine damage.