Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
2009 Chevrolet Tahoe Base, 4.8 CFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Communication Interface Module Replacement
NOTE:
- It is critical to use the service replacement Communication Interface Module (CIM) only in the vehicle for which it was ordered.
- Failure to perform the following procedures will result in a red LED, DTC(s) being set, and limited or incomplete OnStar® services
- An OnStar® button-press to the OnStar® call center is not required to complete the procedure.
- It may take up to 24 hours for OnStar® service to become fully activated after performing the procedures.
- Perform the following procedure only once. Repeat attempts of the procedure may result in a delay of the activation process.
- Connect the scan tool to the vehicle.
- Connect the Techline Information System (TIS) terminal to the scan tool.
- Select the VCIM Vehicle Communication Interface Module Set-up and perform the set-up procedure.
- Select the ONSA TIS2WEB Pass-Thru OnStar® Activation (Replaced/Upgraded Units Only) option using the service programming system (SPS).
- The default language for the new CIM is English. To change the language to French or Spanish, access the scan tool.
- Inform the customer that it may take up to 24 hours for the OnStar® service to become fully activated.
Factory Service Tools
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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