Malfunction Indicator Lamp: Testing and Inspection

Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Diagnosis

Diagnostic Instructions

- Perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle prior to using this diagnostic procedure.
- Review Strategy Based Diagnosis for an overview of the diagnostic approach.
- Diagnostic Procedure Instructions provides an overview of each diagnostic category.

Circuit/System Description

The malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) also known as the service engine soon (SES) or check engine lamp, is located on the instrument cluster. The MIL, when illuminated, informs the driver of an emission system fault, and that service to the system is required. An ignition circuit supplies power to the lamp and the engine control module (ECM) provides a switched ground.

Reference Information

Schematic Reference

- Instrument Cluster Schematics
- Engine Controls Schematics [1][2]Electrical Diagrams

Connector End View Reference

Component Connector End Views

Electrical Information Reference

- Circuit Testing
- Connector Repairs
- Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections
- Wiring Repairs

Scan Tool Reference

Control Module References for scan tool information

Circuit/System Verification

NOTE: Any MIL requesting DTCs that may be set should be diagnosed first.

Ignition ON, the MIL should turn ON and OFF when commanded with a scan tool.

Circuit/System Testing

1. Ignition OFF, disconnect the harness connector at the P16 instrument cluster.
2. Ignition ON, verify that a test lamp illuminates between the ignition circuit terminal 19 X1 and ground.
3. If the test lamp does not illuminate, test the ignition circuit for a short to ground or an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal and the ignition circuit fuse is open, replace the P16 instrument cluster.
4. Connect a test lamp between the control circuit terminal 17 X1 and the ignition circuit terminal 19 X1.
5. Command the MIL ON and OFF with a scan tool. The test lamp should turn ON and OFF when changing between the commanded states.
6. If the test lamp is always ON, test the control circuit for a short to ground. If the circuit tests normal, replace the K20 ECM.
7. If the test lamp is always OFF, test the control circuit for a short to voltage or an open/high resistance. If the circuit tests normal, replace the K20 ECM.
8. If all circuits test normal, replace the P16 instrument cluster.

Repair Instructions

Perform the Diagnostic Repair Verification after completing the diagnostic procedure.
Control Module References for ECM and instrument cluster replacement, setup, and programming