Circuit Description

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Saturn Ion Red Line, 2007 Saturn Ion 3, and 2007 Saturn Ion 2. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The engine control module (ECM)/powertrain control module (PCM) uses the generator turn ON signal circuit to control the load of the generator on the engine. A high side driver in the ECM/PCM applies a voltage to the voltage regulator. This signals the voltage regulator to turn the field circuit ON and OFF. When the ECM/PCM turns ON the high side driver, the voltage regulator turns ON the field circuit. When the ECM/PCM turns OFF the high side driver, the voltage regulator turns OFF the field circuit.

The ECM/PCM monitors the state of the generator turn ON signal circuit. With the engine running, the ECM/PCM should detect a high generator turn ON signal circuit, or when the charging system malfunctions. If the ECM/PCM detects a low generator turn ON signal circuit, DTC P0621 will set. When the DTC sets, the ECM/PCM will send a class 2 serial data message to the instrument panel cluster (IPC) to illuminate the charge indicator.