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.
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HOMESERVICE MANUALSPONTIAC2005GRAND PRIX V6-3.8L SC VIN 4REPAIR AND DIAGNOSISA L L DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES ( DTC )TESTING AND INSPECTIONC CODE CHARTSC0186
2005 Pontiac Grand Prix V6-3.8L SC VIN 4
C0186
2005 Pontiac Grand Prix V6-3.8L SC VIN 4SECTION C0186
DTC C0186
Circuit Description
The vehicle stability enhancement system (VSES) uses the lateral accelerometer input when calculating the desired yaw rate. The usable output voltage range for the lateral accelerometer is 0.25 - 4.75 volts.
The lateral accelerometer sensor bias compensates for sensor mounting alignment errors and electronic signal errors.
DTC Descriptor
This diagnostic procedure supports this DTC:
DTC C0186 Lateral Accelerometer Circuit
Conditions for Running the DTC
^ The ignition is ON.
^ The vehicle speed is greater than 40 km/h (25 mph).
Conditions for Setting the DTC
Voltage at the lateral accelerometer signal output to the electronic brake control module (EBCM) falls outside the 0.25 - 4.75 volt range for more than 100 milliseconds.
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
If equipped, these actions occur:
^ The EBCM disables the traction control system (TCS)/VSES for the duration of the ignition cycle.
^ A malfunction DTC is set.
^ The antilock brake system (ABS) indicator turns ON.
Conditions for Clearing the DTC
^ The condition for the DTC is no longer present.
^ A history DTC will clear after 100 consecutive ignition cycles if the condition for the malfunction is no longer present.
^ Using a scan tool
Diagnostic Aids
^ A thorough inspection of the wiring system and connectors be performed. Failure to carefully and fully inspect the wiring system and connectors may result in misdiagnosis which may result in replacing good parts and the reappearance of the malfunction.
^ Inspection for poor connections, broken insulation, or a wire that is broken inside the insulation.
^ If an intermittent malfunction exists, refer to Diagnostic Aids.
Test Description
These numbers refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.
2. This step tests for specified voltage on the lateral accelerometer signal circuit.
3. This step tests for B+ voltage on yaw/lateral accelerometer sensor.
4. This step tests the ignition circuit for a high resistance or open.
5. This step checks if the voltage was under or above the specified voltage.
6. This step checks if the voltage was above the specified voltage.
7. This step checks if the voltage was under the specified voltage.
8. This step checks if the voltage was above the specified voltage.
9. This step checks if the resistance of the ground circuit is less than 5 ohms.
10. This step tests for a short to voltage on the 5-volt Reference circuit.
11. This step tests for a short to ground, a high resistance, or an open in the 5-volt Reference circuit.
12. This step tests for a short to ground, a high resistance, or an open in the lateral accelerometer signal circuit.
13. This step tests for a short to voltage in the lateral accelerometer signal circuit.
14. This step tests for a high resistance or an open in the ground circuit.
15. This step checks the yaw/lateral accelerometer sensor connector for poor connections.
16. This step checks the EBCM connector for poor connections.
RENDER: 1.0x
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.