Engine Temperature Indicator
The engine temperature indicator gives an indication to the vehicle operator when the engine temperature gauge reading reflects a condition requiring immediate attention. This indicator is controlled by a transistor on the CCN circuit board based upon programming and electronic messages received from the PCM over the CAN data bus. The CCN will illuminate the engine temperature indicator for about three seconds each time the ignition is turned to the ON position, during the bulb test.
The engine temperature indicator LED is completely controlled by the CCN logic circuit, and that logic will only allow this indicator to operate when the instrument cluster receives a battery current input on the fused ignition switch output (run-start) circuit. Therefore, the LED will always be off when the ignition switch is in any position except ON or START. The LED only illuminates when it is provided a path to ground by the CCN transistor. The engine temperature indicator will also be turned on for the following reasons:
- Engine Temperature High Message - Each time the CCN receives a message from the PCM indicating the engine coolant temperature is above about 252° F (122° C), the engine temperature indicator will be illuminated and a single chime tone is sounded. The indicator remains illuminated until a message from the PCM indicating that the engine coolant temperature is below about 246° F (119° C) is received, or until the ignition switch is turned to the OFF position, whichever occurs first. The chime tone feature will only repeat during the same ignition cycle if the engine temperature indicator is cycled off and then on again by the appropriate engine temperature messages from the PCM.
The PCM continually monitors the engine coolant temperature sensor to determine the engine operating temperature. The PCM then sends the proper engine coolant temperature messages to the CCN. If the CCN turns on the engine temperature indicator due to a high engine temperature gauge reading, it may indicate that the engine or the engine cooling system requires service.