Bulletin No.: PI0745C
Date: Nov-2012

Subject:

Information on Diagnosing Intermittent Electrical Concerns with Components Fused Through
Instrument Panel Fuse Block

Models:

2010-2012 Buick LaCrosse
2011-2012 Buick Regal
2010-2013 Cadillac SRX
2013 Cadillac XTS
2010-2013 Chevrolet Equinox
2013 Chevrolet Malibu
2010-2013 GMC Terrain

This PI is being revised to add the 2013 Cadillac SRX. Please discard PI0745B.

Condition/Concern
Some customers may comment on intermittent issues with components that are fused through the instrument panel fuse block. These issues may
include (but are not limited to):

•

Flickering Interior lights.

•

Erratic operation of exterior lights.

•

Service power Steering (SPS) message displayed.

•

Unable to move the transmission selector from PARK.

The above conditions are examples, however, additional components may be affected. Components that are fused by the fuses identified below, in
the instrument panel fuse block, are the primary focus of this bulletin.
These conditions may be caused by insufficient tension on the feed side of the fuse (BUS bar terminal connection inside the fuse block).

Recommendation/Instructions for LaCrosse, Malibu, Regal, SRX, XTS
Use the following steps to diagnose and repair the condition.
1.

Locate the instrument panel fuse block. Refer to SI for the specific location.

2.

Locate the fuse in the fuse block that controls the component that is displaying the condition.

3.

With the vehicle in PARK and the parking brake set, start the vehicle.

4.

With the vehicle running, wiggle the fuse in question and observe function of the component.

5.

If moving the fuse makes the condition change (operative/inoperative) proceed to the next step. If the condition does not change, refer to the
appropriate diagnostic and repair procedures in SI.

6.

Remove the affected fuse from the fuse block.

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7.

With the fuse removed, using the graphic above, determine which terminal is the feed side.

In the above graphic, the feed side of the fuse is highlighted in blue.

8.

Using test adapter J-35616-35 for relay terminals, inserted in the feed side, perform a drag test and determine if the terminal has sufficient
tension.

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If J-35616-35 in not available, create a drag test fuse by cutting off one of the terminals as shown.
9.

Adjust the terminal tension as follows:

9.1. Insert an awl between the fuse block housing and the terminal as shown.
9.2. Gently pry the terminal inward to tighten the terminal opening. Perform this procedure on both sides of the terminal.
10. Using the drag test tool, perform a drag test and verify the terminal tension.
11. Reinstall the fuse and verify the condition has been corrected.
12. Repeat the terminal tension drag test on the remainder of fuse locations 2, 3, 8, 9, 12, 13 and 14–26 and tighten the terminal tension as
necessary.

Recommendation/Instructions for Equinox, Terrain
1.

Locate the instrument panel fuse block. Refer to SI for the specific location.

2.

Locate the fuse in the fuse block that controls the component that is displaying the condition.

3.

With the vehicle in PARK and the parking brake set, start the vehicle.

4.

With the vehicle running, wiggle the fuse in question and observe function of the component.

5.

If moving the fuse makes the condition change (operative/inoperative) proceed to the next step. If the condition does not change, refer to the
appropriate diagnostic and repair procedures in SI.

6.

Remove the affected fuse from the fuse block.

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7.

With the fuse removed, using the graphic above, determine which terminal is the feed side.

In the above graphic, the feed side of the fuse is highlighted in red.

8.

Using test adapter J-35616-35 for relay terminals, inserted in the feed side, perform a drag test and determine if the terminal has sufficient
tension.

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If J-35616-35 in not available, create a drag test fuse by cutting off one of the terminals as shown.
9.

Adjust the terminal tension as follows:

9.1. Insert an awl between the fuse block housing and the terminal as shown.
9.2. Gently pry the terminal inward to tighten the terminal opening. Perform this procedure on both sides of the terminal.
10. Using the drag test tool, perform a drag test and verify the terminal tension.
11. Reinstall the fuse and verify the condition has been corrected.
12. Repeat the terminal tension drag test on the remainder of fuse locations highlighted in red and tighten the terminal tension as necessary.

Warranty Information
For vehicles repaired under warranty, use:
Labor Operation

Description

Labor Time

N9690*

Check and Adjust Instrument Panel Fuse Block Terminal Tension

0.5 hr

Add

Clear Stored or Set DTCs

0.2 hr

*This is a unique labor operation for bulletin use only. It will not be published in the Labor Time Guide.
Additional Key Words: Light, Lighting, Lamp, Bulb, Power, BCM, Inop, Inoperative, DTC, Stop, Turn Signal, Park, IP, IPJB, IPBEC
GM bulletins are intended for use by professional technicians, NOT a "do-it-yourselfer". They are written to inform these technicians of conditions
that may occur on some vehicles, or to provide information that could assist in the proper service of a vehicle. Properly trained technicians have the
equipment, tools, safety instructions, and know-how to do a job properly and safely. If a condition is described, DO NOT assume that the bulletin
applies to your vehicle, or that your vehicle will have that condition. See your GM dealer for information on whether your vehicle may benefit from the
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information.

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