ACTUATOR TEST
The instrument cluster actuator test will put the instrument cluster into its self-diagnostic mode. In this mode the
instrument cluster can perform a self-diagnostic test that will confirm that the instrument cluster circuitry, the gauges,
and the indicators are capable of operating as designed. During the actuator test the instrument cluster circuitry will
position each of the gauge needles at various calibration points, illuminate all of the segments in the Vacuum Fluorescent
Display (VFD) unit, and turn all of the indicators on and off again.
Successful completion of the actuator test will confirm that the instrument cluster is operational. However, there may
still be a problem with the CAN data bus, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), the Engine Control Module (ECM),
the Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM), the Transmission Control Module (TCM), the Occupant Restraint Controller
(ORC), the Controller Anti-lock Brake (CAB), the Sentry Key REmote Entry Module (SKREEM) or the hard
wired inputs to one of these electronic control modules. Use a diagnostic scan tool to diagnose these components.
Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.
1. Begin the test with the ignition switch in the OFF position.
2. Depress the odometer/trip odometer switch button.
3. While still holding the odometer/trip odometer switch button depressed, turn the ignition switch to the ON position,
but do not start the engine.
4. Release the odometer/trip odometer switch button.
5. The instrument cluster will simultaneously begin to illuminate all of the operational segments in the VFD unit and
perform a bulb check of each operational LED indicator. The VFD segments and LED indicators remain illuminated
as each gauge needle is swept to several calibration points and back. If a VFD segment or an LED indicator
fails to illuminate, or if a gauge needle fails to sweep through the calibration points and back during this
test, the instrument cluster must be replaced.
6. The actuator test is now completed. The instrument cluster will automatically exit the self-diagnostic mode and
return to normal operation at the completion of the test. The actuator test will be aborted if the ignition switch is
turned to the OFF position, or if a vehicle speed message indicating that the vehicle is moving is received from
the PCM over the CAN data bus during the test.
7. Go back to Step 1 to repeat the test, if necessary.
