Pinpoint Test AC: The WASHER FLUID LEVEL LOW Message Is Inoperative/Always On
Instrumentation, Message Center and Warning Chimes
Pinpoint Test AC: The WASHER FLUID LEVEL LOW Message Is Inoperative/Always On
Refer to Wiring Diagrams Set 60, Instrument Cluster for schematic and connector information. Electrical Diagrams
Normal Operation
The washer fluid level switch is hardwired to the Instrument Cluster (IC). The IC (Instrument Cluster) provides a reference voltage to the washer fluid level switch through the signal circuit. When the washer fluid level is normal, the washer fluid level switch opens. When the washer fluid is low, the washer fluid level switch closes to ground pulling the signal circuit reference voltage low.
This pinpoint test is intended to diagnose the following:
- Wiring, terminals or connectors
- washer fluid level switch
- IC (Instrument Cluster)
PINPOINT TEST AC : THE WASHER FLUID LEVEL LOW MESSAGE IS INOPERATIVE/ALWAYS ON
NOTICE: Use the correct probe adapter(s) when making measurements. Failure to use the correct probe adapter(s) may damage the connector.
NOTE: Verify that the washer fluid reservoir is full or empty depending on the customer concern to correctly verify the concern before proceeding with the diagnostics.
NOTE: Failure to disconnect the battery when instructed will result in false resistance readings.
AC1 CHECK FOR THE DOOR AJAR MESSAGE
- Ignition OFF.
- Close all doors, liftgate, and hood.
- Ignition ON.
- Open the LH front door while monitoring the message center display.
Does the message center display DRIVER DOOR AJAR?
Yes
If the WASHER FLUID LEVEL LOW message is always on, GO to AC2.
If the WASHER FLUID LEVEL LOW message is inoperative, GO to AC4.
No
GO to Pinpoint Test AA. Pinpoint Test AA: The Message Center Is Not Operating Correctly
AC2 CHECK THE WASHER FLUID LEVEL SWITCH
- Ignition OFF.
- Disconnect: Washer Fluid Level Switch C138.
- Ignition ON.
- Monitor the message center.
Does the WASHER FLUID LEVEL LOW continue to display?
Yes
GO to AC3.
No
INSTALL a new washer fluid level switch. TEST the system for normal operation.
AC3 CHECK THE WASHER FLUID LEVEL SIGNAL CIRCUIT FOR A SHORT TO GROUND
- Ignition OFF.
- Disconnect: IC (Instrument Cluster) C220.
- Measure the resistance between the IC (Instrument Cluster) C220-17, circuit CMC20 (VT), harness side and ground.
Is the resistance greater than 10,000 ohms?
Yes
GO to AC7.
No
REPAIR circuit CMC20 (VT) for a short to ground. TEST the system for normal operation.
AC4 CHECK THE WASHER FLUID LEVEL GROUND CIRCUIT FOR AN OPEN
- Ignition OFF.
- Disconnect: Negative Battery Cable.
- Disconnect: Washer Fluid Level Switch C138.
- Measure the resistance between the washer fluid level switch C138-2, circuit GD123 (BK/GY), harness side and ground.
Is the resistance less than 5 ohms?
Yes
GO to AC5.
No
REPAIR circuit GD123 (BK/GY) for an open. TEST the system for normal operation.
AC5 CHECK THE WASHER FLUID LEVEL SWITCH
- Connect: Negative Battery Cable.
- Connect a fused jumper wire between the washer fluid level switch C138-1, circuit CMC20 (VT), harness side and ground.
- Ignition ON.
- Monitor the message center.
Does the message center display WASHER FLUID LEVEL LOW?
Yes
REMOVE the jumper wire. INSTALL a new washer fluid level switch. TEST the system for normal operation.
No
REMOVE the jumper wire. GO to AC6.
AC6 CHECK THE WASHER FLUID LEVEL INPUT CIRCUIT FOR AN OPEN
- Ignition OFF.
- Disconnect: IC (Instrument Cluster) C220.
- Measure the resistance between the IC (Instrument Cluster) C220-17, circuit CMC20 (VT), harness side and the washer fluid level switch C138-1, circuit CMC20 (VT), harness side.
Is the resistance less than 5 ohms?
Yes
GO to AC7.
No
REPAIR circuit CMC20 (VT) for an open. TEST the system for normal operation.
AC7 CHECK FOR CORRECT IC (Instrument Cluster) OPERATION
- Disconnect the IC (Instrument Cluster) connector.
- Check for:
- corrosion
- damaged pins
- pushed-out pins
- Connect the IC (Instrument Cluster) connector and make sure it seats correctly.
- Operate the system and verify the concern is still present.
Is the concern still present?
Yes
INSTALL a new IC (Instrument Cluster). REFER to Instrument Cluster (IC) . TEST the system for normal operation.
No
The system is operating correctly at this time. The concern may have been caused by a loose or corroded connector.