Remote Vehicle Start

The all new 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is GM’s first production vehicle with a Remote Vehicle Start (RVS) system. (fig. 1) The option is available on vehicles equipped with RPO AP3. The system has a range of up to 197 feet (60 meters). (fig. 2)

RVS provides several customer-satisfying features:
- Saves time normally spent scraping ice off windows
- Comfort of entering a pre-heated or pre-cooled vehicle

RVS is integrated with the current anti-theft and RFA systems to provide a very robust system. And it provides user feedback of the event and the ability to enable/disable the feature.

Enable and Disable Procedure
The current state of the RVS function can be viewed through the driver information center (DIC) display. Press the Menu button on the DIC until REMOTE START appears. The display will read ON or OFF, depending on the last setting.

To enable the RVS function:
1. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
2. Press the Menu button on the DIC until REMOTE START is displayed.
3. Press the Enter button on the DIC until ON is displayed.

To disable the RVS function:
1. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF.
2. Press the Menu button on the DIC until REMOTE START is displayed.
3. Press the Enter button on the DIC until OFF is displayed.

Operation
TIP: The system must be enabled to operate.

To operate the function, first press and release the LOCK button on the key fob, then press the RVS button for 2 seconds.

When the remote control door lock receiver receives the start signal, it sends a GMLAN message to the BCM, and the BCM enables the Run/Crank relay. Once the relay is turned on, the BCM sends a message to the PCM to start the engine. The PCM then performs a starter-based algorithm to start the engine. (fig. 3)

The vehicle park lamps will be illuminated to indicate that the engine is running. The vehicle doors will be able to be unlocked.

If the engine does not start within three attempts to crank the engine, RVS will not attempt another start until it is reset. Reset consists of inserting the ignition key and rotating it to the Run position.

The RVS function is allowed to start the vehicle for two 10-minute intervals. If the BCM receives a second request for an RVS event while already operating in RVS, the second timer starts immediately. For example, if the RVS button was pressed for the first time and then 7 minutes later the RVS button was pressed a second time, the total time for the RVS event would be 17 minutes.

To drive the vehicle, the door must be unlocked, and the ignition must be placed in the RUN position. This unlocks the gear selector lever.

The RVS event can be deactivated:
- by pressing the RVS button on the key fob
- by turning the ignition key from the OFF position to any other position, then back to the OFF position
- by pressing the hazard switch to the ON position.

There are other safety and security features built into the system. The following conditions must be met in order for the RVS function to operate:
- The hood switch inputs to the BCM must indicate that the hood is closed.
- The accelerator pedal is not being pressed during the event.
- There is no current PCM DTC
- There is no current DTC set for the hood switch, hazard switch or the brake transmission shift interlock (BTSI).
- The hazard switch is in the OFF position.
- There is not a key in ignition input to the BCM.
- The BCM has not lost communication with the PCM.
-The transmission must be in the PARK position.

If any of these conditions are present during an RVS event, the vehicle park lamps will flash to indicate that the signal was received and the operation is disabled.

During an RVS event, the engine will be turned OFF if any of the following conditions are met (the first four serve as anti-theft provisions):
- Throttle position is greater than 10% for 2 seconds.
- Engine speed is greater than 2000 RPM for 30 seconds.
- Engine speed is greater than 4000 RPM for 2 seconds.
- Vehicle speed is greater than 0 km/h
- Engine crank time is greater than 30 seconds
- Engine oil pressure is low.
- Engine is overheating.
- A DTC is set that causes the MIL to illuminate.
- Engine run time has exceeded 10 minutes
- A BTSI Auto Trans Shift Lock Control fault has occurred
- Content theft system is activated
- Hazard switch is turned ON
- The hood is opened
- An ignition switch input fault is detected
- A low voltage condition is detected by the PCM
HVAC Operation, RVS Enabled

The HVAC control module receives three separate GMLAN messages from the BCM to enable HVAC operation during an RVS event. They include:

If there is a communication failure between the BCM and the HVAC control module during an RVS event, the HVAC function will be inoperative.

While in an RVS event, the HVAC control module will not respond to input of a button press or the turning of a control knob. The LED display will display AS, referring to the vehicle being in an Auto Start mode. All other HVAC displays will be disabled. If the A/C is activated, the LED will not be turned on.

TIP: During the RVS event, the HVAC system will operate according to the following tables. However, if the HVAC was turned off the previous time the vehicle was driven, it will return to OFF as soon as the RVS event ends.

The HVAC control module is programmed to take the following actions when in an RVS event:

Once the ignition key is placed in the RUN position, the HVAC system reverts to its last know setting.

Diagnosis
Refer to SI for appropriate diagnostic procedures. Basically, diagnostics of the RVS system are based on inputs from other systems, and the RVS diagnostic tables contain links to faults in those systems.

- Thanks to Jim Mauney

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figure 3

According to PI01357, when servicing a 1999 Chevrolet Camaro or 1999 Pontiac Firebird, the following diagnosis might be helpful if the vehicle exhibits these symptoms: Crank No Start, Hesitate, Idles Rough, MIL / DTC, No Start, Runs Rough, Stall.

The original or service replacement PCM may not be programmed successfully. There may also be a DTC P0606 and or a P1516 set. The concern is with the PCM replacement part numbers.
- Part number 09374997 is mislabeled on the PCM and is part number 09361735, which is for a non ETC 3800 V-6 application.
- PCM part number 09374997 is for an ETC application but was changed to part number 12209624.
- PCM part number 12209624 is for a non-ETC application.
- At this time, GMSPO does not have a PCM available for a 3800 V6 ETC application.

If you are trying to program PCM part number 12209624, 09361735 or 09374997, call TCSC (1.800.828.6860) and advise the TCSC helpdesk coordinator that you are not able to program the replacement PCM. TCSC will send an archive file, which is a software patch that will reset the EEPROM map for the 1999 F-car. The GM dealer should accept a new PCM part number to be released into GMSPO service in the near future.

Please follow this diagnosis process thoroughly and complete each step. If the condition exhibited is resolved without completing every step, the remaining steps do not need to be performed. If these steps do not resolve the condition, please contact GM TAC for further diagnostic assistance. This diagnostic approach was developed for the vehicle with the VIN you entered and should not automatically be used for other vehicles with similar symptoms.

- Thanks to Hassan Abdallah

This information applies to the 2004 Chevrolet Malibu.

SI document 1352053 contains two procedures for setting up a new Theft Deterrent Module, within Programming Theft Deterrent System Components. One procedure uses existing keys and one uses new keys.

IMPORTANT: The procedure called "Set Up a New Theft Deterrent Module (TDM) Using Existing Keys" may not function correctly. The corrected software will not be available on the Scan Tool until CD release 13. This is due to be broadcast to dealers on December 15. The CD will be shipped to dealers on approximately December 19.

Until this scan tool release is available, and when using the “Set Up a New Theft Deterrent Module (TDM) Using Existing Keys” procedure, it will be necessary to contact Technical Assistance for the necessary Tech 2 software.

TIP: If the “Set Up a New Theft Deterrent Module (TDM) Using New Keys” is performed, the current scan tool setup procedure will function correctly. If a new Theft Deterrent Module has to be special-ordered, be sure the required number of keys will be available at the time the new module is installed.

- Thanks to Brent Drendall and Mike McClure

On Venture, Silhouette, and Montana vehicles, a child comfort clip is sewn into the rear seats, and is tucked into a fold on the outboard shoulder seam. (fig. 4) This clip may get damaged or pull out.

A replacement service clip (fig. 5) for 2002-03 vehicles is available from the Warranty Parts Center, according to Bulletin 03-09-50-001. It explains how to get the part and how to install it.

TIP: Install the replacement clip rather than replacing the seat back cover.

- Thanks to Tom Geist

figure 4

This information applies to:
1997-2001 Buick Century, Regal, Chevrolet Venture, Oldsmobile Silhouette, Pontiac Grand Prix, Montana
1997-2003 Cadillac Seville
1998-2001 Oldsmobile Intrigue
2000-01 Chevrolet Impala, Monte Carlo
2000-03 Buick LeSabre, Park Avenue, Cadillac DeVille, Pontiac Bonneville
2001-2003 Oldsmobile Aurora
2001 Pontiac Aztek

A new outer tie rod end service kit has been released which is the same tie rod end that went into production on the vehicles listed above. The kit includes:
- a revised tie rod end with improved boot that eliminates the possibility of water intrusion into the tie rod end which can cause premature wear out condition
- emory cloth
- an instruction sheet.

When replacing the outer tie rod ends, use the improved tie rod end service kit and modify the knuckles according to this procedure.
- Remove the outer tie rod end from the inner tie rod assembly; count the number of revolutions it takes to remove the outer tie rod from the inner tie rod and record it. Discard the outer tie rod end.
- Use the emery cloth supplied in the service kit to remove the sharp edge on the knuckle. The photos show the knuckle before (fig. 6) sanding and after (fig. 7) sanding.

IMPORTANT: When sanding the knuckle, AVOID REMOVING excessive material. USE ONLY the emery cloth supplied in the service kit. DO NOT use any other abrasive, which may remove excessive material from the knuckle.
- Ensure that the sharp edge and the flashing on the knuckle are removed from the outer tie rod end boot/seal area. (fig.8)
- Install the new outer tie rod end supplied in the service kit by screwing the outer tie rod end onto the inner tie rod end assembly.
- Turn the outer tie rod end as many turns as it took to remove the old outer tie rod end from the inner tie rod end assembly.
- Install the prevailing torque nut to the outer tie rod assembly.
- Inspect the front toe and adjust if necessary. Refer to Front Toe Adjustment, SI Document 580777.

- Thanks to Gary McAdam

Using “Getting to Know” Materials Effectively

"Getting To Know" your vehicle guides are included in the glove box of most GM car and trucks sold in the US. (fig. 9) In addition, some vehicles, like the 2004 Trailblazer, will include a "Getting To Know" your vehicle CD. The GTK guides are designed to provide a convenient overview of the operation of the vehicle -- specifically, its features and controls. It is not intended to take the place of the Owner's Manual.

TIP: New vehicle preparation personnel should take care to be sure the GTK guide and/or CD is in the vehicle.

A clear understanding of a vehicle’s operation and features contributes greatly to a customer’s satisfaction with their new vehicle, and that’s reflected in J.D. Power and CSI survey results.

GTK materials provide the salesperson an excellent aid when explaining the features of a new vehicle to the owner during delivery. In the same way, service advisors and technicians can gain quick insight into a vehicle’s operating features, from an owner’s standpoint, by studying the GTK guides.

TIP: Pay particular attention to the key five J.D. Power customer dissatisfiers: RKE Operation, HVAC Controls, Audio Systems, Memory and Personalization Features, and Perceived Fuel Economy.

Electronic copies of the 2004 GTK guides can be obtained by US dealers on the web at www.gmcommontraining.com.

- Thanks to Diana Sancya

Three conditions are necessary for "rotten egg" or hydrogen sulfide odor to be present in exhaust gasses:
- Hot catalytic converter
- Sulfur in the fuel
- Rich air-fuel ratio, at least momentarily.

Of these three, the quantity of sulfur present in the fuel is the most variable, and most difficult to control for both a vehicle manufacturer and a customer.

High amounts of sulfur in fuel can cause not only a rotten egg odor in exhaust gasses, but also certain re-active sulfurs can corrode silver contacts in the fuel level sender, causing erroneous fuel gauge readings.

At present, there is no EPA requirement for the level of sulfur in fuel, outside of the state of California, and the ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) specification limit is 1000 parts per million (PPM). To put that number into perspective, the current limit for sulfur in California phase 2 gasolines requires an average of less than 30 PPM.

In 2004, the EPA will begin limiting the sulfur content in gasoline. In 2004, the EPA limit for the corporate average sulfur content will be 120 ppm, and no single gasoline can exceed 300 ppm (except for small refiner exemptions). By 2006, the corporate average will be limited to 30 ppm (the current California limit), with a maximum of 80 ppm (except for small refiner delays). California Phase 3 gasoline, which will be available next year, will have a maximum sulfur content of 15 ppm.

In the absence of an identified vehicle condition, customers can be advised to temporarily change to a premium grade brand of fuel from a major supplier such as Shell, Exxon, Texaco or Chevron. Premium fuels in general have been found to have lower sulfur levels. However, even these suppliers can be susceptible in areas where base fuels are delivered either by pipeline or from the same refinery.

TIP: Dealers should refrain from attempting repairs or replacing catalytic converters for odor complaints, unless there is a MIL indicating a part deficiency.

- Thanks to Bob Furey and Jay Dankovich

Interior Light Override Feature

Customers continue to be confused by the operation of their vehicle’s interior lights. Many cars and trucks have override switches (fig. 10), which disable the function of interior lights, when light is not wanted. Customers who are unaware of the switches may assume the vehicle doesn’t have interior lights or that they are malfunctioning.

Two things will help minimize this confusion.

TIP: During pre-delivery inspection, be sure the override switch is off, so the interior lights are not disabled.

TIP: Be sure the customer understands the functioning of all systems when the vehicle is delivered.

- Thanks to Tom Geist

On Buick LeSabres, the rear upper seat back may squeak when pressure is applied to the back. This is caused by metal to metal contact between the seat anchor clip and the seat cross brace (fig. 11).

Install mylar or equivalent tape over the seat clip anchor hole, then reinstall the seat back.

- Thanks to Bill Metoyer

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Envoy XUV Rear Wiper

The 2004 Envoy XUV features a unique power sliding rear roof and dual function end gate with sliding power window (fig.12).

The rear wiper system for this vehicle is designed to park the wiper arm in a depression, or pocket, in the end gate applique.

“Timing” Procedure

If the wiper arm is removed for any reason, it’s necessary to “time” the motor assembly before installing the wiper arm to the vehicle.

TIP: If the timing is not done, the wiper arm will not park properly, and may interfere with the operation of the end gate window.
1. With the rear wiper arm removed, turn the igntion to RUN, with the engine OFF.
2. Turn the rear wiper switch to full speed (position 3) and verify that the wiper arm pivot shaft is functioning.
3. Locate and remove the rear wiper fuse No. 9, located under the LH rear seat. Verify that the wiper arm pivot shaft is NOT functioning.
4. Turn the wiper switch OFF.
5. Install fuse No. 9.
6. Turn the ignition to LOCK OFF.

IMPORTANT: Do not turn on or cycle the rear wiper after step 6 until the wiper arm nut is fully torqued. If the vehicle is turned on, start over at step 1.

7. Install the washer hose end connection into the end gate, route the hose clockwise around the shaft and connect to the elbow.
8. Install the rear wiper arm. Align the park finger of the arm into the park pocket in the applique.
9. Tighten the nut to 6-10 N.m (55-89 in.lb.).
10. Secure the wiper arm nut cover.
11. Turn the ignition to RUN, engine OFF.
12. Cycle the rear wiper and verify the park location of the wiper arm into the applique pocket (fig. 13).
13. Inspect the operation of the end gate window.

TIP: SI document 1326065 is being revised to include this procedure.

- Thanks to Brandon Snyder and John Force

figure 12

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A change was made to the seat belt system on Venture, Silhouette, and Montana models in October, 2002. Model year 2003 vehicles built before October 7 had 2002 parts, and those built after October 7 have the new parts. The parts are not interchangeable. New retractor-side and buckle-side belts give better insertion effort and improve customer satisfaction with seat belt operation.

Seat belt extenders are now available for the new design seat belt system. If a customer has a vehicle built after 10/7/02 and needs a seat belt extender, use the new part numbers listed below.

- Thanks to Tom Geist

Truck Issues – Fix It Right The First Time

Know-How Broadcasts for December