Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Part 1




Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC)

Overview

Base IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster)









Optional IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster)









The base IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) is available with a single LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) screen. The optional IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) is available with dual RH (Right Hand) and LH (Left Hand) LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) screens. The single display screen and the LH (Left Hand) display screen contain the conventional message center information. The RH (Right Hand) display screen displays multimedia information (audio, phone, navigation and climate control) as well as items such as vehicle direction, outside air temperature and time. REFER to Information and Entertainment Systems - Premium Plus Information and Entertainment Systems - Premium Plus, REFER to Information and Entertainment Systems - Sony Sound Information and Entertainment Systems - Sony Sound, REFER to Climate Control - DATC or REFER to Climate Control - EMTC for information on the RH display screen.

Submenu Display Area (Optional IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) Only)

The optional IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) provides an area in the upper RH (Right Hand) corner of the LH (Left Hand) message center display that is used to indicate the level of submenus that is currently displayed. The number of boxes shown depends on the number of submenu items that are available for selection. The box is filled in (darkened) to indicate the current selection. For example, if there are 4 boxes shown that means that there are 4 submenu items available to select from using the LH (Left Hand) steering wheel (message center) right/left button. If the third box is filled in, that means the selected display is the third submenu or 3 button presses to the right.

Informational Indicators/Warning Indicators

Informational indicators provide information to the driver of conditions that exist in the vehicle. Warning indicators provide information to the driver of conditions that could potentially cause personal injury or alter vehicle performance.

Message Center Indicators

Message center indicators illuminate in the message center and replace the typical informational or warning indicator using the same iconic representation. When multiple warnings exist, the message center indicators cycle through each display until the condition has been corrected unless the message center indicator is in a fixed position. The message center indicators include:
- Charging system
- Cruise control (fixed location)
- Door ajar
- Engine oil pressure
- Engine over-temperature
- Grade assist
- Low fuel
- Low washer fluid
- Powertrain malfunction (wrench)
- Tow haul

Network Messaged Inputs

Module messaging has increased over time and become the standard for sending and receiving information required to operate the IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster). The majority of the inputs required to operate the IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) are received over the CAN (Controller Area Network).

Hardwired Inputs

The IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) requires hardwired inputs from components that are not hardwired to other modules and, therefore, are not on either HS-CAN (High Speed Controller Area Network) or the MS-CAN (Medium Speed Controller Area Network) but are required for specific IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) functions or gateway requirements. For additional information about the gateway function, REFER to Gateway Function.

The hardwired inputs are provided by components:
- Fuel pump module (primary fuel level input)
- Fuel level sensor (secondary fuel level input)
- Park detect switch (part of the floor shifter assembly)
- Washer fluid level switch

System Operation

System Diagram - Gauges

Gauges





Network Message Chart - Gauges

Module Network Input Messages - IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster)






System Diagram - Indicators

Indicators





Network Message Chart - Indicators

Module Network Input Messages - IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster)






Gateway Function

The IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) acts as a gateway module by receiving information in one format and transmitting it to the audio and multimedia modules using another format. This enables network communication between modules that do not communicate using the same network ( I-CAN (Infotainment Controller Area Network) or MS-CAN (Medium Speed Controller Area Network)).

Networked Input Messages and Default States

The IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) uses input messages from other modules to control the gauges, informational indicators, and warning indicators over the communication networks. If a required message is missing or invalid for less than 5 seconds, the gauge or indicator that requires the message remains at the last commanded state based upon the last message received. For example, if the stability/traction control status message is missing for less than 5 seconds and the stability/traction control indicator (sliding car icon) was on, the indicator remains on until the next message is received. If the message remains missing or invalid for more than 5 seconds, the IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) sets a U-code DTC and the IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) output becomes a default action for the indicator or gauge. Each indicator or gauge utilizes a different default strategy depending on the nature of the indication. Refer to the diagnostic overview descriptions located before each individual pinpoint test for further description of the default action specific to each indicator or gauge. If the missing messaged input to the IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) returns at any time, the normal function of the gauge or indicator resumes.

NOTE: Whenever a network message is suspected as missing and confirmed by a missing message DTC (U-code), it is important to look for other symptoms that may also be present in the IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) and throughout the vehicle. Once a DTC sets in the IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster), it may be helpful to review the complete message list. REFER to Controller Area Network (CAN) Multiplex Messages Module Communications Network to determine which other modules also rely on the same message and run the self-test for those modules. If the message is missing from other modules, the same DTC may also be set in those modules. Confirmation of missing messages common to multiple modules may indicate the originating module is the source of the concern or the communication network may be faulted.

It is very important to understand:
- where the input originates.
- all the information necessary for a feature to operate.
- which module(s) receive(s) the input or command message.
- which module controls the output of the feature.
- whether the module that receives the input controls the output of the feature, or whether it outputs a message over the communication network to another module.

Transport Mode

During vehicle build, some vehicle modules ( IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster), BCM (Body Control Module) and RFR (Remote Functions Receiver) module [if equipped]) are set in factory mode. While in the factory mode, the system does not automatically revert to another mode and must be manually set to either the transport or normal operation mode. When the vehicle build is complete, the vehicle is set to transport mode. While in transport mode, the IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) displays TRANSPORT MODE CONTACT DEALER in the message center. Transport mode reduces the drain on the battery during longer periods where the vehicle is not used. Various systems may be altered or disabled when in the transport mode. The vehicle automatically reverts to normal operation mode after being driven 121 km (75 mi) (early build) or 201 km (125 mi) (late build). To disable or turn off the transport mode, carry out (within 10 seconds):
- Verify the battery is fully charged.
- With the ignition in RUN, press the brake pedal 5 times.
- Press the hazard switch 4 times (on, off, on, off).

Startup-Shutdown

The IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) provides a startup/shutdown sequence also known as a welcome/farewell strategy. When the vehicle receives a RKE (Remote Keyless Entry) request or a door ajar (open) message, the IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) gradually increases illumination of the gauge trim rings and turns on the message center (the optional IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) provides a welcome graphic). When the ignition is placed into the RUN or START mode, the IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) begins a prove-out stage. During the prove-out stage, the IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) sweeps then zeros all gauges, provides message center information (replaces the welcome screen with vehicle specific information on the optional IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster)) while illuminating all LED (Light-emitting Diode) indicators for a predetermined time. For the shutdown, the IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) reverses the startup process.

MyKey(R)

The MyKey(R) feature allows the customer to program a restricted driving mode that is tied to one or more keys known as a MyKey(R) key. When a MyKey(R) programmed key is in use, the IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) provides the following functions:
- At the beginning of vehicle start up, as part of the welcome strategy, the message center greets the MyKey(R) driver with MYKEY ACTIVE DRIVE SAFELY displayed in the message center. If the MyKey(R) speed limiter feature is turned on, the message center also displays SPEED LIMITED TO 130 KM/H (80 MPH).
- The IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) continuously provides a periodic Belt-Minder(R) warning chime until the driver and passenger safety belts are buckled. When the Belt-Minder(R) is issued, the ACM (Audio Control Module) is muted and the message center displays BUCKLE UP TO UNMUTE AUDIO.
- If the MyKey(R) speed limiter feature is turned on and the vehicle speed approaches 130 kmh (80 mph), the message center displays VEHICLE NEAR MYKEY TOP SPEED along with a chime.
- If the MyKey(R) speed limiter feature is turned on and the vehicle speed reaches 130 kmh (80 mph), the message center displays VEHICLE AT TOP OF MYKEY SETTING along with a chime.
- If the speed warning is selected at one of the preset values (75, 90, 105 km/h [45, 55, 65 mph]) and the vehicle approaches the preset speed, the message center displays CHECK SPEED DRIVE SAFELY along with a chime.
- If the traction control always on feature is turned on and the MyKey(R) driver attempts to disable the traction control, the message center displays TRACTION CONTROL SET TO ALWAYS ON.
- At 120 km (75 miles) of remaining fuel, the IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) illuminates the low fuel indicator (if equipped) and the message center displays the appropriate DTE (Distance To Empty) along with a chime.
- MyKey(R) miles driven by the MyKey(R) user can be found in the information display.
- The number of MyKey(R) programmed and administrator keys can be found in the information display.
- The parking aid, BLIS (Blind Spot Information System)/ CTA (Cross Traffic Alert) and collision avoidance warning menus are disabled in the message center to force these features always on.
When an administrator key is in use, the IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) provides the following functions:
- The message center provides a menu guiding the user to create a MyKey(R) . When the maximum MyKey(R) limit is reached, the MyKey(R) creation menu is no longer available.
- The message center provides menus for setting 4 optional MyKey(R) features:
- MyKey(R) 130 KM/H (80 MPH) speed limiter
- MyKey(R) pre-selected speed warning
- MyKey(R) radio volume limiter
- Traction control on/off

- The message center provides a menu to clear all MyKey(R) programmed keys at once.
- MyKey(R) mileage driven by the MyKey(R) user can be found in system check function of the message center.
- The number of MyKey(R) programmed keys and administrator keys can be found in the system check function of the message center.
For additional information on the MyKey(R) features, refer to the Owner's Literature.

Configuration

The IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) contains items that are configurable. Configurable items include customer preference items, which can also be set with a scan tool. The remaining configurable items can only be set by the PMI (Programmable Module Installation) procedure by uploading/downloading existing configuration or by using As-Built data. Refer to the scan tool instructions. The configurable IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) items are:














Prove-Out

The IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) and other vehicle modules carry out a display prove-out to verify all module controlled warning/indicator lamps and monitored systems are functioning correctly within the IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster). The IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) and other modules, such as the RCM (Restraints Control Module), provide a timed prove-out while other indicators illuminate until engine start up. When the ignition is cycled to on with the engine off, the indicators illuminate to prove-out according to the following table:






Dealer Test Mode

To enter the IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) self-diagnostic mode, begin with the ignition in the OFF mode. Press and hold the RH (Right Hand) steering wheel switch OK button (optional IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster)) or the LH (Left Hand) steering wheel switch OK button (base IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster)). Place the ignition in the ON mode and hold the button until the display indicates ENGINEERING TEST MODE, usually within 3 to 5 seconds. Press the up or down arrow buttons to navigate through each of the display windows. To exit the IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) self-test mode, press and hold the OK button for 3-5 seconds or place the ignition in the OFF mode. The dealer test mode displays multiple items in a viewing window on the RH (Right Hand) side of the IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster). Each button press advances the viewing window to the next set of items.

NOTE: Some of the displays listed in the table below use xxx's to represent a numeric or alphanumeric value. The value may display the same amount of characters represented by the xxx's or there may be more/less depending on the type of display. For example: DTC HIST CURR xxxxxx x x may display DTC HIST CURR C10000 X. Note that there were 8 x's in the display description but only 7 digits in the actual display.

NOTE: The table below lists the displays as they appear when navigating using the down arrow button.