FYI Problems from the November GM Tech Link
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Race Director
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 13,656
Likes: 7
From: Bay Shore, NY 11706 MILD2WILD (M2W)
St. Jude Donor '06-'07
FYI Problems from the November GM Tech Link
These come from GM internal communications. This is the most I have see in one month 
Buzz or Static in Radio
Some 2005-07 Chevrolet Corvettes may experience buzz or static in the radio when the engine is off but the HVAC is on. The noise diminishes as blower speed is lowered and increases as the blower speed is increased. The EMI appears to come from the blower motor itself.
A main body IP harness located under the IP on the passenger side is routed past the blower motor. To correct the concern, move the body IP harness forward away from the blower motor and secure with a tie strap.The tie straps should be added either to the HVAC case corner or to the opening in the toe bracket.
**************************************** **
Seat Recall (memory) or
Exit Recall (memory)
On a 2005-07 Chevrolet Corvette, Seat Recall or Exit Recall (memory) for the driver’s seat or steering wheel may be inoperative or have erratic operation. This could be the result of the Body Control Module (BCM) not recognizing the driver’s door position, either open or closed.
There are two switches in the door latch and two door inputs to the BCM from each door. The door inputs are the "Left Door Ajar" and "Left Door Open" data parameters. In order for the seat recall to function correctly, both door switch parameters must change state. Depending how the Tech 2 is navigated, only one of the two parameters may be located within the Tech 2.
TIP: Below is a Tech 2 path that will allow both parameters to be viewed at the same time.
Diagnostics > Select Model Year 2005, 2006 or 2007 > Passenger Car > Chevrolet > Y > Body and Accessories > Theft Deterrent > Data Display > Body Control Module > Keyless/Remote Start Data.
Inspect the "Left Door Ajar" input and "Left Door Open" input for proper operation. If either data parameter is not functioning correctly, refer to SI document 1602023 for the schematic or SI document 1631958 to begin the Diagnostic System Check.
****************************************
Fuel Level Sending Units Revisited
Operation of a typical in-tank fuel level sending unit is based on variable resistance. As the float moves up or down according to fuel level, the resistance in the sending unit varies. This varying resistance is processed by the engine control module (ECM) and the resulting information is sent to the instrument panel cluster (IPC) for display on the fuel gauge.
In the past, the sending unit was set up so that high resistance indicated high fuel level, and low resistance indicated low fuel level.
Sulfur contaminants found in some of today’s gasolines can form deposits on the sending unit (fig. 12), resulting in higher-than-intended resistance (TechLink, Jan. 2006). The high resistance from the deposits could be misinterpreted as a high fuel level, when in fact the fuel level is low. The driver may run out of fuel, even though the fuel gauge is not indicating low or empty.
To offset this effect, engineering has begun “flipping” fuel senders, reversing the circuitry. This means that high resistance now indicates low fuel level and low resistance indicates high fuel level. So, if deposit build-up adds to sender resistance, the gauge will err in the direction of indicating less fuel than is actually in the tank.
The “flipping” process began in the 2004 model year and continued through model years 2005-06.
These vehicles will have their fuel level sending units “flipped” for the 2007 model year.
- Cadillac XLR
- Chevrolet Corvette
- Chevrolet Impala, Monte Carlo
- Chevrolet Malibu
- Pontiac Grand Prix
- Buick LaCrosse (Allure)
These vehicles will have their fuel level sending units “flipped” for the 2008 model year.
- Cadillac CTS
- Cadillac SRX
- Cadillac STS
TIP: When diagnosing fuel sender operation, it’s critical to refer to the appropriate model year information in SI, to be sure which resistance specifications apply.
TIP: GMSPO offers GM Fuel System Treatment PLUS p/n 88861011 (88861012 in Canada) which helps protect fuel sending units from contaminating deposits.
**************************************** *
“No Fobs Detected” Message
This information applies to 2005-07 Chevrolet Corvette and Cadillac STS, 2004-2007 Cadillac XLR.
Certain brands of cell phone chargers may produce electromagnetic interference (EMI) or radio frequency interference (RFI) that can disrupt the electrical systems within the vehicle. The concerns created by the use of these chargers may be intermittent and random. The concerns can be present with or without the phone connected to the charger. This condition usually occurs when using a non name-brand charger.
This interference can cause a no start condition with a "No Fobs Detected" message on the DIC.
Disconnect the cell phone charger from the vehicle and evaluate the customer concern. If the concern is corrected, advise the customer that OEM cell phone chargers, provided by the cell phone manufacturer, typically have additional filtering to eliminate this type of interference.
**************************************** *
On-Star Upgrade
At present, this information applies only to dealers in the United States.
Information will be forthcoming for Canadian dealers
Since it was launched in 1996, OnStar has relied on an analog wireless network to provide communication to and from OnStar-equipped vehicles. As part of an industry wide change in the North American wireless telecommunications industry, wireless carriers are transitioning to digital technology and will no longer support the analog wireless network beginning early 2008.
As a result, beginning January 1, 2008, OnStar service in the United States and Canada will be available only through vehicles that are capable of operating on the digital network.
Certain model years 2002-05 Gen 4 and 5 (analog/digital-ready) GM vehicles are upgradable to a digitally capable OnStar system.
Bulletin 05-08-46-006G is being released to list eligible vehicles and to explain the upgrade process.
Program Requirements
TIP: Only vehicles listed in bulletin 05-08-46-006G are eligible to be upgraded. Vehicle upgradeability can also be determined by typing the VIN into the appropriate field at onstarenrollment.com, now found in GM DealerWorld.
Effective October 17, the customer must agree to purchase a 1-year, non-refundable non-transferable subscription to OnStar (two packages are available -- Safe and Sound, and Directions and Connections). The upgrade kit (fig. 1) will be provided at no additional cost with the purchase of the 1-year subscription.
Kit stock levels are very limited, and the supplier of the kits will not have sufficient inventory until January. It’s advisable to hold off performing upgrades until January, unless absolutely necessary.
This is a non-warrantable repair.
There is no way to transfer the customer’s present telephone number from the analog system to the new digital system. Hands-Free Calling (HFC) nametags stored in the old system will be lost, and will need to be re-established after the upgrade is complete.
Installation Tips
You must follow the steps in the bulletin exactly in order to ensure a satisfactory installation.
Here are some of the highlights.
Follow the ordering process in the bulletin. It involves obtaining the customer’s signature on the Digital Hardware Upgrade Terms and Conditions Form and faxing in to the telephone number in the bulletin. Part numbers for upgrade kits are listed by eligible vehicle in the bulletin. The proper upgrade kit will be shipped within 24 hours.
TIP: The Digital Hardware Upgrade Terms and Conditions Form can be downloaded from the Autocraft website www.aeorder.com.
On some vehicles, the existing antenna mast is discarded and a replacement mast from the kit is screwed to the antenna base.
On other vehicles, the on-glass antenna mast and inner and outer couplers are replaced with components included in the kit. Follow instructions carefully to be sure the antenna is installed in the correct location and that it adheres properly.
On certain Cadillac STSs, a new inside rearview (ISRV) mirror replaces the existing mirror.
The Vehicle Communication Interface Module (VCIM) from the kit replaces the original VCIM in the vehicle. In some cases, a new mounting bracket is supplied. And some VCIMs may have a small jumper harness attached, which must be plugged into the OnStar connector.
Configuration
IMPORTANT: The new system must be configured. If it is not, the OnStar LED light will remain red and will not change to green. Pressing and holding the white dot button will not reset this version of OnStar, but will set a DTC.
The configuration process involves set-up of the new VCIM with the Tech 2. The complete process is detailed in the bulletin.
Customer Information
After installation, the customer must be introduced to the features of the Generation 6 equipment, some of which are different from their old equipment. An important difference is the continuous digit dial feature. An owner manual and a tip sheet included in the kit will help the customer better understand their new OnStar system. Be sure to fill out the warranty form and give it to the customer (keep a copy for dealership records).
Buzz or Static in Radio
Some 2005-07 Chevrolet Corvettes may experience buzz or static in the radio when the engine is off but the HVAC is on. The noise diminishes as blower speed is lowered and increases as the blower speed is increased. The EMI appears to come from the blower motor itself.
A main body IP harness located under the IP on the passenger side is routed past the blower motor. To correct the concern, move the body IP harness forward away from the blower motor and secure with a tie strap.The tie straps should be added either to the HVAC case corner or to the opening in the toe bracket.
**************************************** **
Seat Recall (memory) or
Exit Recall (memory)
On a 2005-07 Chevrolet Corvette, Seat Recall or Exit Recall (memory) for the driver’s seat or steering wheel may be inoperative or have erratic operation. This could be the result of the Body Control Module (BCM) not recognizing the driver’s door position, either open or closed.
There are two switches in the door latch and two door inputs to the BCM from each door. The door inputs are the "Left Door Ajar" and "Left Door Open" data parameters. In order for the seat recall to function correctly, both door switch parameters must change state. Depending how the Tech 2 is navigated, only one of the two parameters may be located within the Tech 2.
TIP: Below is a Tech 2 path that will allow both parameters to be viewed at the same time.
Diagnostics > Select Model Year 2005, 2006 or 2007 > Passenger Car > Chevrolet > Y > Body and Accessories > Theft Deterrent > Data Display > Body Control Module > Keyless/Remote Start Data.
Inspect the "Left Door Ajar" input and "Left Door Open" input for proper operation. If either data parameter is not functioning correctly, refer to SI document 1602023 for the schematic or SI document 1631958 to begin the Diagnostic System Check.
****************************************
Fuel Level Sending Units Revisited
Operation of a typical in-tank fuel level sending unit is based on variable resistance. As the float moves up or down according to fuel level, the resistance in the sending unit varies. This varying resistance is processed by the engine control module (ECM) and the resulting information is sent to the instrument panel cluster (IPC) for display on the fuel gauge.
In the past, the sending unit was set up so that high resistance indicated high fuel level, and low resistance indicated low fuel level.
Sulfur contaminants found in some of today’s gasolines can form deposits on the sending unit (fig. 12), resulting in higher-than-intended resistance (TechLink, Jan. 2006). The high resistance from the deposits could be misinterpreted as a high fuel level, when in fact the fuel level is low. The driver may run out of fuel, even though the fuel gauge is not indicating low or empty.
To offset this effect, engineering has begun “flipping” fuel senders, reversing the circuitry. This means that high resistance now indicates low fuel level and low resistance indicates high fuel level. So, if deposit build-up adds to sender resistance, the gauge will err in the direction of indicating less fuel than is actually in the tank.
The “flipping” process began in the 2004 model year and continued through model years 2005-06.
These vehicles will have their fuel level sending units “flipped” for the 2007 model year.
- Cadillac XLR
- Chevrolet Corvette
- Chevrolet Impala, Monte Carlo
- Chevrolet Malibu
- Pontiac Grand Prix
- Buick LaCrosse (Allure)
These vehicles will have their fuel level sending units “flipped” for the 2008 model year.
- Cadillac CTS
- Cadillac SRX
- Cadillac STS
TIP: When diagnosing fuel sender operation, it’s critical to refer to the appropriate model year information in SI, to be sure which resistance specifications apply.
TIP: GMSPO offers GM Fuel System Treatment PLUS p/n 88861011 (88861012 in Canada) which helps protect fuel sending units from contaminating deposits.
**************************************** *
“No Fobs Detected” Message
This information applies to 2005-07 Chevrolet Corvette and Cadillac STS, 2004-2007 Cadillac XLR.
Certain brands of cell phone chargers may produce electromagnetic interference (EMI) or radio frequency interference (RFI) that can disrupt the electrical systems within the vehicle. The concerns created by the use of these chargers may be intermittent and random. The concerns can be present with or without the phone connected to the charger. This condition usually occurs when using a non name-brand charger.
This interference can cause a no start condition with a "No Fobs Detected" message on the DIC.
Disconnect the cell phone charger from the vehicle and evaluate the customer concern. If the concern is corrected, advise the customer that OEM cell phone chargers, provided by the cell phone manufacturer, typically have additional filtering to eliminate this type of interference.
**************************************** *
On-Star Upgrade
At present, this information applies only to dealers in the United States.
Information will be forthcoming for Canadian dealers
Since it was launched in 1996, OnStar has relied on an analog wireless network to provide communication to and from OnStar-equipped vehicles. As part of an industry wide change in the North American wireless telecommunications industry, wireless carriers are transitioning to digital technology and will no longer support the analog wireless network beginning early 2008.
As a result, beginning January 1, 2008, OnStar service in the United States and Canada will be available only through vehicles that are capable of operating on the digital network.
Certain model years 2002-05 Gen 4 and 5 (analog/digital-ready) GM vehicles are upgradable to a digitally capable OnStar system.
Bulletin 05-08-46-006G is being released to list eligible vehicles and to explain the upgrade process.
Program Requirements
TIP: Only vehicles listed in bulletin 05-08-46-006G are eligible to be upgraded. Vehicle upgradeability can also be determined by typing the VIN into the appropriate field at onstarenrollment.com, now found in GM DealerWorld.
Effective October 17, the customer must agree to purchase a 1-year, non-refundable non-transferable subscription to OnStar (two packages are available -- Safe and Sound, and Directions and Connections). The upgrade kit (fig. 1) will be provided at no additional cost with the purchase of the 1-year subscription.
Kit stock levels are very limited, and the supplier of the kits will not have sufficient inventory until January. It’s advisable to hold off performing upgrades until January, unless absolutely necessary.
This is a non-warrantable repair.
There is no way to transfer the customer’s present telephone number from the analog system to the new digital system. Hands-Free Calling (HFC) nametags stored in the old system will be lost, and will need to be re-established after the upgrade is complete.
Installation Tips
You must follow the steps in the bulletin exactly in order to ensure a satisfactory installation.
Here are some of the highlights.
Follow the ordering process in the bulletin. It involves obtaining the customer’s signature on the Digital Hardware Upgrade Terms and Conditions Form and faxing in to the telephone number in the bulletin. Part numbers for upgrade kits are listed by eligible vehicle in the bulletin. The proper upgrade kit will be shipped within 24 hours.
TIP: The Digital Hardware Upgrade Terms and Conditions Form can be downloaded from the Autocraft website www.aeorder.com.
On some vehicles, the existing antenna mast is discarded and a replacement mast from the kit is screwed to the antenna base.
On other vehicles, the on-glass antenna mast and inner and outer couplers are replaced with components included in the kit. Follow instructions carefully to be sure the antenna is installed in the correct location and that it adheres properly.
On certain Cadillac STSs, a new inside rearview (ISRV) mirror replaces the existing mirror.
The Vehicle Communication Interface Module (VCIM) from the kit replaces the original VCIM in the vehicle. In some cases, a new mounting bracket is supplied. And some VCIMs may have a small jumper harness attached, which must be plugged into the OnStar connector.
Configuration
IMPORTANT: The new system must be configured. If it is not, the OnStar LED light will remain red and will not change to green. Pressing and holding the white dot button will not reset this version of OnStar, but will set a DTC.
The configuration process involves set-up of the new VCIM with the Tech 2. The complete process is detailed in the bulletin.
Customer Information
After installation, the customer must be introduced to the features of the Generation 6 equipment, some of which are different from their old equipment. An important difference is the continuous digit dial feature. An owner manual and a tip sheet included in the kit will help the customer better understand their new OnStar system. Be sure to fill out the warranty form and give it to the customer (keep a copy for dealership records).
Safety Car
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 3,565
Likes: 5
From: stafford country, va. Avatar: Me on turn 3 @ Bristol (The World's Fastest Half-Mile)
Originally Posted by Pipedreams
On-Star Upgrade
At present, this information applies only to dealers in the United States.
Certain model years 2002-05 Gen 4 and 5 (analog/digital-ready) GM vehicles are upgradable to a digitally capable OnStar system.
Bulletin 05-08-46-006G is being released to list eligible vehicles and to explain the upgrade process.
On some vehicles, the existing antenna mast is discarded and a replacement mast from the kit is screwed to the antenna base.
On other vehicles, the on-glass antenna mast and inner and outer couplers are replaced with components included in the kit. Follow instructions carefully to be sure the antenna is installed in the correct location and that it adheres properly.
Safety Car
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 3,565
Likes: 5
From: stafford country, va. Avatar: Me on turn 3 @ Bristol (The World's Fastest Half-Mile)
Originally Posted by prs62
Hey Zig, you get to keep the wart for XM radio; it's not used by onstar.
BTW, the '05 steering wheel has 4 spokes.
BTW, the '05 steering wheel has 4 spokes.
