FixVault

Scan Tool Data Definitions

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Pontiac Sunfire and 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

ECT:  The scan tool displays -40°C to +151°C (-40°F to +304°F). The engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor is mounted in the coolant stream. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) applies 5 volts to the ECT sensor signal circuit. The sensor is a thermistor which changes internal resistance as temperature changes. When the sensor is cold and the internal resistance is high, the PCM monitors a high signal voltage and interprets it as a cold engine. As the sensor warms and the internal resistance decreases, the voltage signal decreases and the PCM interprets the lower voltage as a warm engine.

FC Relay 1 Command:  The fan control (FC) relay is commanded by the PCM. FC Relay 1 displays the command as ON or OFF.

Low Coolant Lamp:  The scan tool displays ON or OFF. The state of the Low Coolant indicator as commanded by the IPC. The IPC receives a class 2 message from the BCM indicating the coolant level.

Low Coolant Level:  The scan tool displays ON or OFF. The state of the low coolant level switch.

Fig 1: Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) List
G01580868Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.