Bump Stoppers: Advanced Ride Control Adds Complexity

Many high-end sports and luxury models use adaptive or driver-controlled suspension components to maximize vehicle stability and optimize handling. Take Cadillac’s electronic road sensing system, for example. The system check procedure for 1997 Cadillac Seville involves OBD and special road test procedures. Check out the procedure as shown by Mitchell On Demand:

1. If this is the first time performing CVRSS system check for code, go to the next step. If this is not the first time performing CVRSS system check, go to step 6.

2. Using Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) on-board diagnostics, display and record all CVRSS codes and their status (current or history). If IPC displays NO RSS DATA, go to NO RSS DATA, LOSS OF SERIAL COMMUNICATION OR POWER for diagnosis. If IPC does not display NO RSS DATA, go to next step.

3. If any current CVRSS codes are set, go to applicable code for diagnosis. See CODE DESCRIPTION table under SELF DIAGNOSTICS. If no current CVRSS codes are set go to next step.

4. Clear CVRSS codes. Road test vehicle driving faster than 50 MPH for ten seconds and avoiding smooth road surfaces. DO NOT turn ignition off. After road test, using scan tool, cycle all CVRSS outputs. Wait 90 seconds. Using Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) on-board diagnostics, display and record all CVRSS codes and their status (current and history). If any current CVRSS codes are set, go to applicable code for diagnosis. See CODE DESCRIPTION table under SELF DIAGNOSTICS. If no current CVRSS codes are set, go to next step.

5. If any history CVRSS code are set, problem is intermittent. See NOTES ON INTERMITTENTS under SELF DIAGNOSTICS. If no history CVRSS codes are set, problem is not electrical. Check for a mechanical or hydraulic problem, or air in system.

6. Reinstall/reconnect all components/connectors. Turn ignition on, with engine off. Clear CVRSS codes. Road test vehicle driving faster than 50 MPH for ten seconds and avoiding smooth road surfaces. After road test, using scan tool, cycle all CVRSS outputs. Wait 90 seconds. Using Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) on-board diagnostics, display and record all CVRSS codes and their status (current or history). If any current CVRSS codes are set, go to applicable code for diagnosis. See CODE DESCRIPTION table under SELF DIAGNOSTICS. If no current CVRSS codes are set, system is okay.

This procedure is a little more complicated than bouncing all four corners for the car, and is typical of modern stability control technology. Someday, a scan tool and computer database will be a given in ride control diagnosis for all cars and light trucks. Will you be ready?