The engine control module (ECM) uses the generator turn-on signal circuit to control the voltage output of the generator. When a different voltage is desired, the ECM will change the pulse width modulation (PWM) signal to the voltage regulator via the generator turn-on signal circuit. This causes the voltage regulator to the voltage output of the generator. The ECM has fault detection circuitry which monitors the state of the generator turn-on signal circuit. If the fault detection circuit senses a voltage other than what is expected, this DTC will set. The voltage regulator also contains fault detection circuitry. If the regulator detects a problem, the regulator will ground the generator turn-on signal circuit, pulling the voltage low. This also causes the ECM to set the DTC.
This diagnostic procedure supports the following DTC:
DTC P1668 Generator L-Terminal Control Circuit
| • | The key is in the ON position for 5 seconds. | 
| • | The engine is OFF. | 
| • | The engine is running. | 
| • | The engine speed is less than 3,000 RPM. | 
| • | The ECM detects a high signal voltage on the generator turn on signal circuit for at least 5 seconds. | 
| • | The engine must be started. | 
During the RUN test, the ECM detects a low signal voltage on the generator turn on signal circuit for at least 5 seconds.
| • | The ECM sends a class 2 message to the instrument panel cluster (IPC) to illuminate the charge indicator and/or turn on a message. | 
| • | The ECM will not illuminate the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL). | 
| • | The ECM will store the conditions present when the DTC set as Failure Records data only. | 
| • | The history DTC will clear after 40 consecutive warm-up cycles have occurred without a malfunction. | 
| • | The DTC can be cleared by using the scan tool Clear DTC Information function. | 
Step  | Action  | Value  | Yes  | No  | 
|---|---|---|---|---|
Schematic Reference: Starting and Charging Schematics Connector End View Reference: Engine Control Module Connector End Views  | ||||
1  | Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check - Vehicle?  | --  | Go to Step 2  | |
2  | 
 Does the scan tool indicate that DTC P1668 has passed?  | --  | Go to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections  | Go to Step 3  | 
3  | 
 Is the PWM signal within the specified value?  | 15-87%  | Go to Step 5  | Go to Step 4  | 
4  | Test the generator turn on signal circuit for a short or open. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs . Did you find and correct the condition?  | --  | Go to Step 10  | Go to Step 5  | 
5  | Test the generator battery positive voltage output circuit for a high resistance or open. Refer to Circuit Testing and Wiring Repairs . Did you find and correct the condition?  | --  | Go to Step 10  | Go to Step 6  | 
6  | Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the generator. Refer to Connector Repairs . Did you find and correct the condition?  | --  | Go to Step 10  | Go to Step 8  | 
7  | Inspect for poor connections at the harness connector of the engine control module (ECM). Refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections and Connector Repairs . Did you find and correct the condition?  | --  | Go to Step 10  | Go to Step 9  | 
8  | Replace the generator. Refer to Generator Replacement . Did you complete the replacement?  | --  | Go to Step 10  | --  | 
9  | 
 Important: The replacement ECM must be programmed. Replace the ECM. Refer to Control Module References for replacement, setup, and programming. Did you complete the replacement?  | --  | Go to Step 10  | --  | 
10  | 
 Does the DTC reset?  | --  | Go to Step 3  | System OK  |