When the EBTCM detects excessive wheel spin, the EBTCM will request that the PCM reduce engine torque via a high speed pulse width modulated (PWM) signal on CKT 463.
The DTC C1278 sets when the EBTCM receives a communication failure data message from the PCM.
The DTC C1278 sets under the two following conditions:
| • | EBTCM to PCM communications. CKT 463 or CKT 800 is open or shorted | 
| • | PCM driveability conditions that would set PCM DTCs. If PCM DTCs are present, the malfunction may not exist with the ABS/TCS system. Refer to Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check in Engine Controls - 4.0L. | 
The following actions are taken when the DTC sets:
| • | A malfunction DTC is stored | 
| • | The TCS is disabled | 
| • | The TRACTION OFF indicator lamp is turned ON | 
The DTC will be cleared under following conditions:
| • | Conditions for the malfunction are no longer present. Use the scan tool clear DTCs function. | 
| • | 100 ignition switch key cycles have passed with no malfunctions detected | 
Perform a thorough inspection of the wiring and the connectors.
Failure to carefully inspect wiring may result in misdiagnosis. A misdiagnosis may result in part replacement with reappearance of the malfunction.
Thoroughly inspect the following grounds:
| • | G101 | 
| • | G102 | 
| • | G106 | 
| • | G110 | 
Step  | Action  | Value(s)  | Yes  | No  | ||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1  | Was the ABS Diagnostic System Check performed?  | --  | Go to Step 2  | |||||||||||||||
2  | Use the scan tool to check for PCM DTC P1571 or any other PCM DTCs. Are there any PCM DTCs?  | --  | Go to Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check in Engine Controls - 4.0L  | Go to Step 3  | ||||||||||||||
3  | 
 Is the resistance less than the specified value?  | 2 ohms  | Go to Step 4  | Go to Step 10  | ||||||||||||||
4  | 
 Is the voltage within the specified range?  | 4.5-5.5 V  | Go to Step 5  | Go to Step 6  | ||||||||||||||
5  | 
 Is the voltage less than the specified value?  | 1 V  | Go to Step 14  | Go to Step 11  | ||||||||||||||
6  | 
 Is the resistance less than the specified value?  | OL (Infinite)  | Go to Step 12  | Go to Step 7  | ||||||||||||||
7  | Use the J 39200 in order to measure the resistance between the J 38716 pinout box terminal 24 and the PCM harness connector C1 terminal 14 (Buick) or connector C2 terminal 46 (Oldsmobile). Is the resistance less the specified value?  | 2 ohms  | Go to Step 8  | Go to Step 13  | ||||||||||||||
8  | Inspect the following components: 
 
 
 
 Inspect the above components for the following conditions: 
 
 
 Are there signs of poor terminal contact, corrosion, or damage in any of the components?  | --  | Go to Step 9  | Go to Step 14  | ||||||||||||||
9  | Repair or replace any terminals, connectors and/or wiring that exhibit signs of poor terminal contact, corrosion, or damaged terminals. Refer to Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems. Is the repair complete?  | --  | --  | |||||||||||||||
10  | Repair the open or high resistance in CKT 1451. Refer to Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems. Is the repair complete?  | --  | --  | |||||||||||||||
11  | Repair the short to the voltage in CKT 463. Refer to Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems. Is the repair complete?  | --  | --  | |||||||||||||||
12  | Repair the short to ground in CKT 463. Is the repair complete?  | --  | --  | |||||||||||||||
13  | Repair the open or high resistance in CKT 463. Refer to Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems. Is the repair complete?  | --  | --  | |||||||||||||||
14  | Replace the EBTCM. Refer to Electronic Brake and Traction Control Module Replacement . Is the repair complete?  | --  | --  |