Checking the Basics

PURPOSE
All troubleshooting must begin by "CHECKING THE BASICS". Certain basic faults can be undetectable by the self-diagnostic system of the Engine Control Module (ECM) and in some cases can actually interfere with the self-checking and fault memory operation. Low battery voltage, for example, can cause erroneous faults to set in the control unit.

On the other hand, system fault memories are cleared whenever the control unit or the battery is disconnected. Therefore, all fault memories should be read prior to any vehicle power interruption or troubleshooting. Prior to any teardown, repair or component replacement, the following steps should always be considered.

COMPLAINT VERIFICATION
Whenever possible the repairing technician should personally verify the complaint. Having experienced the malfunction, the technician is less likely to try to repair non-existent faults.

MALFUNCTION VERIFICATION
Today's sophisticated automotive systems are easily misunderstood, which can lead to repairs that attempt to force a particular system to perform in a way that it was never intended to operate. Therefore, the troubleshooting technician should compare the system operation to the nominal system operation as described in the section DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION. Furthermore, the technician is also encouraged to compare the problem vehicle system operation with a known good vehicle.

PREVIOUS REPAIRS
The vehicle repair history can provide explanations to unusual complaints which seem to elude normal troubleshooting attempts. Incorrect components or unapproved repairs can have subtle influences on seemingly unrelated systems.

BATTERY STATE OF CHARGE
Batteries in a state of partial discharge can have a dramatic effect of ECM and related components.

POSITIVE BATTERY CABLE INTEGRITY
All B+ connections must be in perfect condition for trouble-free electronic system operation. Refer to ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC DIAGRAMS for B+ interconnects.

FUSE INTEGRITY
Fuses are employed to prevent possible damage to electrical components and wiring harnesses. Fuses and their connections must be without dynamic resistance. Dynamic resistance can only be checked using the voltage drop method of testing.

FUSIBLE LINK INTEGRITY
Fusible links are employed to prevent possible damage to electrical components and wiring harnesses. Fuse links must be checked visually and electrically.

NEGATIVE GROUND CONNECTIONS
As all electrical circuits are a circle, all B- connections must also be checked and verified to be in perfect condition. A poor "common" ground point will cause seemingly unrelated systems to influence one another.

POWER TRAIN CABLE ATTACHMENTS
Metal cables attached to the engine or transmission which appear overheated and/or discolored indicate the need to thoroughly test all ground connections.

POWER SUPPLY RELAYS
Fuel pump and main relays as well as their plug connections can be a source of intermittent operation which will not set a fault in the ECM fault memory.

CRANKSHAFT POSITION/SPEED SENSOR
Monolithic sensors should be checked statically and dynamically. Physical mounting and condition of the sensor must be assured.

HIGH TENSION COIL AND SECONDARY COMPONENTS WIRING
The secondary ignition system should be checked visibly as well as with a suitable engine analyzer and scope. All components should be examined for tight connections and freedom from carbon tracking, moisture and corrosion.

FUEL DELIVERY AND FUEL RAIL PRESSURE
Fuel delivery must begin at once when cranking and the pressure in the fuel rails must be within specifications. Fuel pressure retention must be maintained between the fuel pump outlet and the pressure regulator after engine shutdown.

SPARK PLUG CLEARANCE
The spark plug gap, if out of specification, can significantly impair engine performance. Spark plug type, condition and gap must verified according to specification.

VACUUM AND VAPOR HOSE INTEGRITY
Vacuum and vapor hoses must be routed correctly and not leaking. Always use the underhood label for primary information and refer to VACUUM AND VAPOR DIAGRAMS for verification.

AIR/FUEL RATIO
Adaptive engine management systems efficiently compensate for conditions which may affect the combustion process. However, when troubleshooting idle quality or driveability complaints, it is still necessary to consider the following:

^ Injector spray pattern quality
^ Presence of unmetered air leaks
^ Evaporative purge system
^ Excessive engine oil dilution
^ Substandard fuel or unapproved additives
^ Carbon build-up

TESTING EQUIPMENT
High standard testing equipment is essential if accurate results are expected. The use of faulty equipment will result in erroneous test results. Use only suitable test leads, terminals and probe tips.