GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Important Preliminary Checks Before Starting

Before using the Symptom tables perform the Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check and verify all of the following items:

    •  The PCM and the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) are operating correctly. Refer to MIL operation in Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check .
    •  There are no DTCs stored.
    •  The scan tool data is within the normal operating range. Refer to Scan Tool Data List .
    •  Verify the customer's complaint.
    •  Perform the Visual/Physical Check in this section.

Locate the correct symptom in the list at the end of this section. Follow the procedures in the appropriate diagnostic table. If the problem can not be duplicated, or is determined to be intermittent, refer to Intermittent Conditions .

Visual/Physical Check

Notice: Use the connector test adapter kit J 35616-A for any test that requires probing the following items:

   • The PCM harness connectors
   • The electrical center fuse/relay cavities
   • The component terminals
   • The component harness connector
Using this kit will prevent damage caused by the improper probing of connector terminals.

Several of the symptom procedures call for a careful visual and physical inspection. This can lead to correcting a problem without further tests and can save valuable time. This inspection should include the following steps:

    • Verify the PCM grounds are clean, tight, and in the proper locations. Refer to Power and Grounding Components and to Power and Grounding Component Views in Wiring Systems.
    •  Inspect the vacuum hoses for splits, kinks, and proper connections as shown on Vehicle Emission Control Information label. Inspect thoroughly for any type of leak or restriction. Refer to Emission Hose Routing Diagram .
    •  Inspect the air intake ducts for collapsing, damaged areas, looseness, an improper installation, or leaking, especially between the MAF sensor and the throttle body.
    • Inspect for air leaks at throttle body mounting area, at the mass air flow (MAF) sensor, and at the intake manifold sealing surfaces.
    •  Inspect the wiring harness for poor connections, pinches, cuts, or other damage.
    •  Inspect for loose, damaged, or missing sensors or components.
    •  Inspect the aftermarket/after factory add-ons and accessories for correct installation. These accessories may lead to an emission related OBD2 failure while in use, but do not fail when the accessories are not used. Following the manufacturer's instructions does not guarantee the accessories will not interrupt the vehicle's normal operation as manufactured.

Use the following tables when diagnosing a symptom complaint:

    •  Hard Start
    •  Surges/Chuggles
    •  Lack of Power, Sluggishness, or Sponginess
    •  Detonation/Spark Knock
    •  Hesitation, Sag, Stumble
    •  Cuts Out, Misses
    •  Poor Fuel Economy
    •  Poor Fuel Fill Quality
    •  Rough, Unstable, or Incorrect Idle and Stalling
    •  Dieseling, Run-On
    •  Backfire
    •  Restricted Exhaust System Check