Auxiliary Cabin Heater: Testing and Inspection

POSITIVE TEMPERATURE COEFFICIENT (PTC) HEATER UNIT

WARNING: Disable the airbag system before attempting any steering wheel, steering column or instrument panel component diagnosis or service. Disconnect and isolate the negative battery (ground) cable, then wait two minutes for the airbag system capacitor to discharge before performing further diagnosis or service. This is the only sure way to disable the airbag system. Failure to follow these instructions may result in accidental airbag deployment and possible serious or fatal injury.

NOTE: See Wiring Information for circuit descriptions and diagrams. Wiring Information includes wiring diagrams, proper wire and connector repair procedures, further details on wire harness routing and retention, as well as pin-out and location views for the various wire harness connectors, splices and grounds.

Prior to replacing the Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heater unit, check for any Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) related to the Engine Control Module (ECM), Totally Integrated Power Module (TIPM) and the heating-A/C system and repair as necessary. Refer to DTC Based Diagnostics.

1. Disconnect and isolate the negative battery cable.
2. Disconnect the wire harness connector from the PTC heater unit Cabin Heater - Removal.
3. Using an ohmmeter, check for continuity between all of the PTC heater unit terminals. In each case there should be continuity. If OK, repair the wire harness circuits between the PTC heater unit, PTC relays and the TIPM. If NOT OK, replace the PTC heater unit.