HARD FAILURES
Hard failures cause SERVICE ENGINE SOON light to illuminate and remain on until the malfunction is repaired. If light comes on and remains on (light may flash) during vehicle operation, cause must be found using diagnostic (code) charts. If a sensor fails, control unit will use a substitute value in its calculations to continue engine operation. In this condition, vehicle is functional, but driveability can be poor.
INTERMITTENT FAILURES
Intermittent failures cause SERVICE ENGINE SOON light to flicker or illuminate and go out about 10 seconds after the intermittent fault goes away. The corresponding trouble code, however, will be retained in ECM memory. If related fault does not reoccur within 50 engine restarts, it will be erased from ECM memory. Intermittent failures may be caused by faulty sensor, connector or wiring. See INTERMITTENTS in TESTS W/O CODES article in this section.
FIELD SERVICE MODE CHECK
On fuel injected models, SERVICE ENGINE SOON light will indicate operational mode of engine if ALDL is grounded while engine is running. This confirms proper fuel system operation and verifies closed loop operation. Clear codes and perform this test after any repair is completed. Field service mode check can be found by proceeding to FIELD SERVICE MODE CHECK (FUEL INJECTED) in BASIC TESTING article.
SCAN TESTER USAGE
Note. Before connecting "Scan" tester, check diagnostic system and ensure accurate information is received by "Scan" tester. Perform appropriate DIAGNOSTIC CIRCUIT CHECK in BASIC TESTING article. If vehicle does not pass diagnostic circuit check, information received by "Scan" tester may be invalid.
The "Scan" tester is a specialized tester can diagnose on-board computer control systems by providing almost instant access to circuit voltage information without crawling under dash or hood to back-probe sensors and connectors. "Scan" testers reduce diagnostic time by furnishing input data (voltage signals) which can be compared to specification parameters. See SCAN DATA table in this article.
"Scan" testers also furnish information on output device (solenoids and motors) status. However, status parameters are only an indication output signals have been sent to devices by the ECM. They do not indicate whether devices respond properly to that signal. This must be verified at output device using a voltmeter or test light.
Note. Code 12 should always exist when ALDL is grounded with key on and engine off, but it may not be indicated by all makes of "Scan" testers.
If trouble codes are not present, a problem may still exist. Driveability-related problems with codes displayed occur about 20 percent of the time, while driveability problems without codes occur about 80 percent of the time. Out-of-calibration sensors WILL NOT set a trouble code, but WILL cause driveability problems. A "Scan" tester is the easiest method of checking sensor specifications and other data parameters. Tester is also useful in finding intermittent wiring problems by wiggling wiring harnesses and connections (key on, engine off) while observing data parameters. See SCAN DATA tables in this article.
Note. Information obtained by "Scan" tester is only as accurate as the tester itself. If erroneous voltage signals are suspected, verify tester information using a digital voltmeter and wiring schematic. If non-existent codes are displayed, turn ignition off and remove tester. Turn ignition on and ground ALDL test terminal. If same codes do not flashed by SERVICE ENGINE SOON light as were indicated by "Scan" tester, tester cannot be used on vehicle and information obtained by it will not be guaranteed accurate.
SCAN DATA
Note. Information contained in these tables is typical of readings taken on vehicle with engine idling, upper radiator hose hot, throttle closed, transmission in Park or Neutral, closed loop status achieved and all accessories off (except as noted in tables). Data parameters are updated every 1 1/4 seconds. Not all devices and systems are used on all models. For additional information, see tester owner's manual.
| Tester Position | Units Measured | Nominal Value |
|---|---|---|
| A/C Clutch | On/Off | Off (On with A/C) |
| A/C Request | Yes/No | No/Yes (with request) |
| Battery Voltage | Volts | 13.5-14.5 |
| Block Learn | Counts | 118-138 (128 normal) |
| Clear Flood | On/Off | See Tester Manual |
| Coolant Temp. | °C | 85-105° (norm. temp) |
| Crank RPM | RPM | 100-900 |
| Cross Counts | Counts | 0-255 |
| Desired RPM | RPM | ECM desired RPM |
| EGR Duty Cycle | 0-100% | 0/closed-100/fully open |
| IAC | Counts | 0-50 |
| Injector Pulse Width | Mil./Sec | .8-3.0 |
| INT (Integrator) | Counts | 110-145 (128 normal) |
| Knock Retard (ESC) | Counts | 0-255 |
| Knock Signal | Yes/No | Yes when knock exists |
| MAT | °C | 10-90° |
| MAP | Volts | 1 (idle) to 4.5 (WOT) |
| Open/Closed Loop Satus | Ol/Cl | Closed/Open during extended idle |
| O2 Sensor | Millivolts | 100 (lean) to 999 (rich) |
| P/N Switch | P/N/RDL | Park/Neutral |
| P/S Switch | Norm/Hi | Normal |
| PROM I.D. | PROM # | Original factory number |
| RPM | RPM | Spec. +/-25 RPM Drive (A/T) |
| " | " | Spec. +/-50 RPM Neut. (M/T) |
| TCC | On/Off | Off (On with command) |
| TPS | Volts | 1.25 (idle) to 5.0 (WOT) |
| Throttle Angle | 0-100% | 0 (idle) to 110 (WOT) |
| Trouble Codes | Code # | No codes |
| Upshift Light Man. Trans. | On/Off | Off |
| VSS or MPH | MPH | 0-actual |
| 4th Gear Switch | On/Off | On/4th gear |
THROTTLE BODY INJECTION
CODE 13: OPEN OXYGEN SENSOR CIRCUIT
When exhaust temperature is less than 600°F (316°C), the O2 sensor is open and produces no voltage. An open sensor circuit or cold sensor will not allow system to enter closed loop operation.
Note. Test numbers refer to test numbers on diagnostic chart.
Test Number 1) Code 13 will set at normal operating temperature if at least 2 minutes have passed since engine start, O2 signal voltage is steady between .35-.55 volt and throttle position sensor signal is above idle. All conditions must be met for at least 1 minute.
Test Number 2) This determines if fault is in O2 sensor, ECM or wiring.
Test Number 3) Use only a high-impedance Digital Volt-Ohmmeter (DVOM) while checking for continuity in signal and ground circuits. If ground circuit is open, voltage on signal circuit will be greater than .6 volt.
CODE 14: COOLANT SENSOR SIGNAL VOLTAGE LOW
The ECM uses coolant temperature sensor inputs in determining control of fuel delivery, engine timing (EST), idle (IAC) and converter clutch (TCC). As the engine warms, the sensor resistance reduces. At normal operating temperature, voltage signal will be about 1.5-2.0 volts at ECM coolant sensor signal terminal.
Note. Test numbers refer to test numbers on diagnostic chart.
Test Number 1) This tests if code was set because of a hard failure or intermittent condition. Code 14 sets if signal voltage indicates a coolant temperature greater than 275°F (135°C) for more than 6 seconds.
Test Number 2) This simulates conditions for a Code 15. If the ECM recognizes the open circuit by displaying a low temperature, the ECM and wiring are not at fault.
CODE 15: COOLANT SENSOR SIGNAL VOLTAGE HIGH
As the engine warms, the sensor resistance reduces and voltage drops. At normal engine operating temperature, voltage will be about 1.5-2.0 volts at ECM coolant sensor signal terminal. If sensor signal circuit opens, ECM will see -40°F (-40°C) and deliver fuel for this temperature.
Note. Test numbers refer to test numbers on diagnostic chart.
Test Number 1) This checks if code was set as a result of a hard failure or intermittent condition. Code 15 will set if engine is running for more than 2 minutes and signal voltage indicates a coolant temperature less than -22°F (-30°C) for more than 30 seconds.
Test Number 2) This simulates conditions for a Code 14. If the ECM recognizes the grounded circuit and displays a high temperature, the ECM and wiring are okay.
Test Number 3) This determines if problem is ECM or wiring. There should be 5 volts present at sensor when measured with a DVOM.
CODE 21: TPS SIGNAL VOLTAGE HIGH
The Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) provides a varying voltage signal depending on throttle valve angle. Signal voltage varies from about .50 volt at idle to 4.5 volts at wide open throttle.
Note. Test numbers refer to test numbers on diagnostic chart.
Test Number 1) This test confirms Code 21 and checks if fault is a hard failure or an intermittent condition. Code 21 will set if TPS voltage is greater than 3.5 volts for 8 seconds with engine running. On 2.8L, Code 21 may set if MAP sensor signal less than 2 volts.
Test Number 2) This test simulates conditions for Code 22. If the ECM recognizes the low voltage signal and sets Code 22, the ECM and power and signal circuits are not at fault.
Test Number 3) This step isolates a faulty sensor, ECM or an open ground circuit.
CODE 22: TPS SIGNAL VOLTAGE LOW
The Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) provides a varying voltage signal depending on throttle valve angle. Signal voltage varies from less than about .50 volt at idle to 4.5 volts at wide open throttle.
Note. Test numbers refer to test numbers on diagnostic chart.
Test Number 1) This test confirms Code 22 and tests if the fault is a hard failure or an intermittent condition. Code 22 will set if engine is running, TPS voltage is less than .2 volt for 2 seconds.
Test Number 2) This simulates Code 21. If the ECM recognizes a high voltage signal and sets Code 21, the ECM and wiring are not at fault.
Test Number 3) On 2.8L, check and adjust TPS. On all others, replace TPS.
Test Number 4) This simulates a high voltage signal to check for on open TPS signal circuit.
CODE 23: MAT SIGNAL TEMP LOW (2.5L)
The ECM supplies and monitors a voltage signal (4-6 volts) to the sensor. When temperatures are low, sensor resistance is high and the ECM will see a high-monitored voltage signal. As temperature increases, sensor resistance decreases and voltage sensed by the ECM drops.
Note. Test numbers refer to test numbers on diagnostic chart.
Test Number 1) This checks if Code 23 is a hard failure or an intermittent condition. Code 23 will set if engine is running for one minute, MAT sensor temperature is less than -22°F (-30°C) and speed sensor signal is not present.
Test Number 2) This simulates conditions for a Code 25. If the "Scan" tester displays a high temperature, the ECM and wiring are not at fault.
Test Number 3) This checks for continuity of sensor signal and ground circuits.
CODE 24: VEHICLE SPEED SENSOR (EXCEPT 3.1L)
ECM applies and monitors a 12-volt signal on circuit No. 437 to Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS). VSS alternately grounds and opens circuit No. 437 when wheels are turning. This pulsing action takes place about 2000 times per mile. The voltage level and pulses increase with vehicle speed. The ECM converts the pulsing voltage to MPH. The ECM uses VSS information in calculations to determine vehicle adjustments.
A Code 24 sets when MPH is less than 2 MPH, transmission is not in Park or Neutral, engine speed is greater than 1400 RPM, circuit No. 437 voltage is constant and all of these conditions are met for 10 seconds. These conditions are met during a road load deceleration. The 2.8L may set this code while accelerating or at highway speeds.
Note. Test numbers refer to test numbers on diagnostic chart.
Test Number 1) Monitors ECM voltage on VSS circuit. With wheels turning, pulsing action will result in a varying voltage. Variation will be greater at low speeds to an average of 4-6 volts are about 20 MPH.
Test Number 2) A voltage of less than one volt at ECM connector indicates circuit No. 437 wire is shorted to ground. Disconnect vehicle speed sensor connector. If voltage is now greater than 10 volts, vehicle speed sensor is faulty. If voltage remains less than 10 volts, circuit is grounded. If circuit is not grounded, check for faulty ECM connector or ECM. Before replacing the ECM, PROM should be checked for correct application.
Test Number 3) A steady 8-12 volts at ECM connector indicates VSS circuit is open or speed sensor is faulty.
Test Number 4) This is normal voltage which indicates a possible intermittent condition.
CODE 24: VEHICLE SPEED SENSOR (3.1L)
ECM applies and monitors a 12-volt signal on circuit No. 437 to Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS). VSS alternately grounds and opens circuit No. 437 when wheels are turning. This pulsing action takes place about 2000 times per mile. The voltage level and pulses increase with vehicle speed. The ECM converts the pulsing voltage to MPH. The ECM uses VSS information in calculations to determine vehicle adjustments. A Code 24 will set when MPH reads less than 2 MPH and transmission is not in Park or Neutral, engine speed is greater than 1400 RPM, circuit No. 437 voltage is constant and all of these conditions have been met for 30 seconds.
Note. Test numbers refer to test numbers on diagnostic chart.
Test Number 1) Disregard Code 24 that sets with drive wheels not turning. If speedometer is not functioning properly, service speedometer.
Test Number 2) A steady 8-12 volts at ECM connector indicates VSS circuit is open or speed sensor is faulty. A voltage of less than one volt at ECM connector indicates circuit No. 437 wire is shorted to ground. Disconnect wire at vehicle speed sensor. If voltage is now greater than 10 volts, vehicle speed sensor buffer is faulty. If voltage remains less than 8 volts, circuit is grounded. If circuit is not grounded, check for faulty ECM connector or ECM. Before replacing the ECM, PROM should be checked for correct application.
CODE 25: MAT SENSOR TEMP. HIGH (2.5L)
The ECM applies and monitors a voltage signal (4-6 volts) to MAT sensor. When manifold air is cold, the sensor resistance is high and ECM sees a high signal voltage. As air warms, resistance decreases and voltage sensed by the ECM drops. Sensor resistance can be measured at sensor terminals with harness disconnected.
Note. Test numbers refer to test numbers on diagnostic chart.
Test Number 1) This checks if the code is a hard failure or an intermittent condition. Code 25 will set if a VSS signal is present and MAT sensor temperature is greater than 302°F (150°C) is sensed for more than 2 seconds.
CODE 32: EGR SYSTEM ERROR 2.5L/5.0L/4.3L EXCEPT S & T) & 5.7L (LESS THAN 8500 GVWR)
ECM controls a solenoid regulating vacuum to the EGR valve. The normally closed solenoid prevents vacuum from passing until it is energized by ECM. A properly operating EGR will directly affect fuel integrator counts. With EGR valve open, integrator counts will be less than without EGR operation. If monitored integrator counts do not change with EGR commanded, Code 32 will set.
Note. Test numbers refer to test numbers on diagnostic chart.
Test Number 1) When test terminal "B" of the ALDL connector is grounded, EGR solenoid should be energized, allowing vacuum to the EGR valve. Vacuum should hold.
Test Number 2) SERVICE ENGINE SOON light should also flash while diagnostic terminal is grounded. If SERVICE ENGINE SOON does not operate it may indicate the Quad-Driver damage by low TCC circuit resistance.
Test Number 3) When jumper wire is removed from terminal "B", vacuum to the EGR valve should bleed through a vent in the solenoid and EGR valve should close. Vacuum gauge may or may not bleed off vacuum, however, this does not indicate a problem.
Test Number 4) Determines if fault lies in electrical control part of the system, connector or solenoid.
Test Number 5) This system uses a negative backpressure EGR valve. Valve should hold vacuum with engine off.
Test Number 6) When engine is started, backpressure should cause vacuum to bleed off and valve should fully close.
CODE 32: EGR SYSTEM ERROR 2.8L, 3.1L, 4.3L (S & T), 5.7L (GREATER THAN 8500 GVWR) & 7.4L
ECM controls a solenoid that regulates vacuum to the EGR valve. The normally closed solenoid prevents vacuum from passing until it is energized by ECM. A properly operating EGR will directly affect fuel integrator counts. With EGR valve open, integrator counts will be less than without EGR operation. If monitored integrator counts do not change with EGR commanded, Code 32 will set.
ECM checks EGR operation when vehicle speed is greater than 50 MPH, engine vacuum indicates cruise and throttle is steady.
Note. Test numbers refer to test numbers on diagnostic chart.
Test Number 1) With ignition on and engine off, solenoid should not be energized or allow vacuum to pass to EGR valve. When test terminal "B" of the ALDL connector is grounded, EGR solenoid should be energized, allowing vacuum to the EGR valve. Vacuum should hold.
Test Number 2) Checks for plugged EGR passages. If passages are plugged, engine may have severe detonation on acceleration.
Test Number 3) SERVICE ENGINE SOON light should also flash while diagnostic terminal is grounded. If it does not this may indicate the Quad-Driver has been damaged by low TCC circuit resistance.
Test Number 4) Vehicle must be driven during this test to produce sufficient load to operate EGR. Lightly accelerating (approximately 1/4 throttle) will produce a large and stable enough reading to determine if ECM is commanding system on.
CODE 33: MAP SENSOR SIGNAL VOLTAGE HIGH
The Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor responds to changes in manifold pressure (vacuum). If MAP sensor fails, ECM will substitute a fixed MAP value and use the TPS input to control fuel delivery.
Note. Test numbers refer to test numbers on diagnostic chart.
Test Number 1) This test confirms Code 33 and determines if it is a hard failure or an intermittent condition. Code 33 will set when voltage signal reading is too high for a time greater than 6 seconds and if the TPS voltage indicates throttle is closed.
Test Number 2) This step simulates conditions for a Code 34. If the ECM recognizes and sets Code 34 (low MAP signal), the ECM and 5-volt reference and MAP signal circuits are not at fault.
CODE 34: MAP SENSOR SIGNAL VOLTAGE LOW
The Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor responds to changes in manifold pressure (vacuum). If the MAP sensor fails, the ECM will substitute a fixed MAP value and use TPS input to control fuel delivery.
Note. Test numbers refer to test numbers on diagnostic chart.
Test Number 1) This confirms Code 34 and determines if code was a hard failure or an intermittent condition. Code 34 will set when ignition is on and MAP signal voltage is low. On some systems, engine must be running to set code.
Test Number 2) Jumpering harness terminals "B" to "C" will determine if problem is sensor, ECM or wiring.
Test Number 3) "Scan" tester may not display 12 volts. The important thing is the ECM recognizes the voltage as greater than 4 volts (high MAP voltage signal), indicating the ECM and MAP signal circuit are not at fault.
CODE 35: IDLE SPEED ERROR (2.5L)
Code 35 will set when closed throttle engine speed is 150 RPM greater or less than correct idle speed for 20 seconds.
Note. Test numbers refer to test numbers on diagnostic chart.
Test Number 1) IAC tester is used to extend and retract IAC valve. Movement is verified by changing engine speed. If no engine speed change occurs, valve can be retested when removed from throttle body.
Test Number 2) Checks IAC movement quality from step 1). Between 700-1500 RPM, engine speed should change smoothly with each tester light flash while extending or retracting. If IAC valve is retracted beyond control range (about 1500 RPM), it may take many flashes in the extend position before engine speed reduces. This is normal on some engines. Fully extending the IAC may cause engine to stall. This may be normal.
Test Number 3) Steps 1) and 2) verified proper IAC valve operation. This step checks IAC circuits. Each light on the node light should flash Red and Green, while the IAC valve is cycled. While the color sequence is not important, if either light is off or does not flash Red and Green, check circuits beginning with poor terminal contacts.
System Too Lean
If air/fuel ratio is too lean, the idle speed may be either too high (check for vacuum leaks) or too low. Engine speed may vary and disconnecting the IAC may not help. "Scan" and/or digital voltmeter (10 megohm) will read an oxygen sensor output less than 300 mv (.3 volt). Check for low fuel pressure or water in the fuel.
System Too Rich
If air/fuel ratio is too rich, idle speed will be too low and "Scan" tester counts will usually be greater than 80. The system may be obviously rich with Black smoke from tailpipe. "Scan" tester and/or voltmeter will read an oxygen sensor voltage signal fixed greater than 800 mv (.8 volt). Look for high fuel pressure or leaking/sticky injectors. Remove IAC and inspect bore for foreign material or evidence of IAC valve dragging the bore. A silicone-contaminated oxygen sensor will produce lean air/fuel mixture. Oxygen sensor output would be fixed greater than 800 mv (.8 volt). This may also set Code 45.
Throttle Body
Remove IAC and inspect bore for evidence of IAC valve dragging.
IAC Valve Connections
Carefully inspect connections for looseness or corrosion.
PCV Valve
The wrong PCV valve may cause incorrect idle speed.
Code 35: Idle Speed Error (2.5L) Circuit Diagram. Scheme 73
Code 35: Idle Speed Error (2.5L) Flow Chart. Scheme 74
CODE 42: ELECTRONIC SPARK TIMING (EST) WITH HEI IGNITION
Code 42 indicates ECM has seen an open or short to ground in HEI EST or by-pass circuits.
Note. Test numbers refer to test numbers on diagnostic chart.
Test Number 1) This test confirms Code 42 and determines if fault is a hard failure or intermittent condition.
Test Number 2) This tests for a normal EST ground path through the ignition module. If circuit No. 423 is shorted to ground, reading will be less than 500 ohms.
Test Number 3) As test light voltage touches circuit No. 424, the module should switch. This causes ohmmeter to "over-range" with meter in 100-200 ohm range. A higher ohm range will indicate over 5000 ohms. This test assures the module switched.
Test Number 4) If module did not switch, this step tests for a short in circuit No. 423, an open in circuit No. 424 and a faulty ignition module connection or module.
Test Number 5) This step confirms Code 42 is a faulty ECM and not an intermittent problem in circuits No. 423 and 424.
CODE 43: ELEC SPARK CONTROL SIGNAL VOLTAGE LOW (EXCEPT 2.5L)
- If conditions for a Code 43 exist, Scan tester will display YES. A knock signal should exist at idle unless an internal or system problem exists.
- Determines if system is functioning. Usually, a knock signal can be made by tapping on the exhaust manifold. If knock signal is not made, try tapping on engine block near sensor.
- Because Code 43 sets when the signal voltage on the spark retard line remains low, this test should cause the signal on that line to go high. The 12-volt signal should be seen by the ECM as a no knock signal if the ECM and wiring are okay.
- This test determines if the knock signal is detected on the sensor-to-controller line or if the ESC module is at fault.
- If sensor line is routed too close to secondary ignition wires, the ESC module may see the interference as a knock signal.
- This checks ground circuit to module. An open ground will cause the voltage on the monitored line to be about 12 volts. This would cause the Code 43 functional test to fail.
- Touch sensor-to-controller wire with a test light connected to 12 volts. This should generate a knock signal to the controller. This determines if the ESC controller is operating correctly.
CODE 44: LEAN EXHAUST INDICATION
Sensor acts like an open sensor circuit and produces no voltage when exhaust temperature is less than 600°F (316°C). An open sensor circuit or cold sensor causes "open loop" operation.
Note. Test numbers refer to test numbers on diagnostic chart.
Test Number 1) Code 44 sets when O2 sensor signal at ECM is less than .2 volt for 50 seconds or more and system is operating in "closed loop".
O2 Sensor Wire
O2 sensor wire may be mispositioned and touching exhaust manifold. Check for ground between sensor and wire connector.
Fuel Contamination
Water, even small amounts, near the in-tank fuel pump inlet can reach fuel injector, causing a lean exhaust and setting Code 44.
Fuel Pressure
System will be lean if fuel pressure is low. It may be necessary to monitor fuel pressure while driving vehicle. For fuel pressure checking procedure, see BASIC TESTING article.
Exhaust Leaks
If the exhaust system has large leaks, exhaust system negative pressure pulses can cause outside air to be drawn into the system and past the O2 sensor. Vacuum or crankcase leaks can also cause a lean condition.
If Code 44 is intermittent, see INTERMITTENTS in H - TESTING W/O CODES article.
Code 44: Flow Chart Lean Exhaust Indication. Scheme 75
CODE 45: RICH EXHAUST INDICATION
Sensor acts like an open sensor circuit and produces no voltage when exhaust temperature is less than 600°F (316°C). An open sensor circuit or cold sensor causes "open loop" operation. Code 45 indicates a rich exhaust and diagnosis should begin with: fuel pressure, leaking injector, HEI shielding, canister purge saturation, coolant sensor, MAP sensor, O2 sensor contamination and TPS intermittent output.
Note. Test numbers refer to test numbers on diagnostic chart.
Test Number 1) Tests if O2 sensor is registering a rich condition. Code 45 is set when vehicle is at operating temperature (in "closed loop"), throttle angle is greater than 5 percent, O2 sensor signal at ECM is greater than .7 volt for 60 seconds or more.
Fuel Pressure High
If fuel pressure is too high, air/fuel ratio will be rich. For fuel pressure checking procedure, see BASIC TESTING article. The ECM can compensate for slight increases but if air/fuel ratio becomes too rich a Code 45 will be set.
Ignition Ground
If an open occurs at circuit No. 453, HEI induced electrical "noise" may result, causing simulated reference pulses picked up by ECM on EST harness reference line. Additional pulses result in a higher than actual engine speed signal. The ECM will increase injector pulse width ("on" time) to match the increased RPM signal. "Scan" tester will show higher than actual RPM, which can help diagnose problem.
Fuel Canister
Charcoal canister fuel saturation will cause a rich air/fuel ratio. If full of fuel, check canister control and hoses.
MAP Sensor
If ECM senses higher than normal manifold pressure (low vacuum) the system can go rich. Disconnecting the MAP sensor allows ECM to substitute a fixed value for the MAP sensor. If rich condition disappears, replace MAP sensor and continue testing.
TPS
An intermittent TPS output will cause the system to operate rich due to a false indication of engine acceleration.
O2 Sensor Contamination
O2 sensor contamination, caused by silicone in certain fuels or use of improper RTV sealant, may cause a White-powdery coating to cover O2 sensor. The false high signal voltage produced (or low oxygen content sensed) is interpreted by the ECM as a rich mixture, causing the ECM to set Code 45.
EGR Problem
EGR valve sticking open at idle is usually accompanied by a rough idle and/or stalling. If Code 45 is intermittent, see INTERMITTENTS in H - TESTING W/O CODES article.
Code 45: Flow Chart Rich Exhaust Indication. Scheme 76
CODE 51: FAULTY PROM/MEM-CAL
Ensure all pins are fully inserted in socket. If okay, replace PROM/MEM-CAL, clear memory and recheck. If Code 51 reappears, replace ECM.
CODE 52: FAULTY CALPAK (EXCEPT 2.5L)
Ensure all pins are fully inserted in socket. If okay, replace CALPAK, clear memory and recheck. If Code 51 reappears, replace ECM.
CODE 53: SYSTEM OVERVOLTAGE (2.5L)
This code indicates a basic charging system problem. Code 53 will set when voltage at ECM terminal is greater than 17.1 volts for 2 seconds. Check and repair charging system.
CODE 54: FUEL PUMP CIRCUIT (EXCEPT 3.1L)
Code 54 will set if the ECM does not see 12 volts on the fuel pump signal voltage monitor during the first 2 seconds after ignition is turned on.
Code 54: Fuel Pump Circuit/Circuit Diagram ("S", "T" & "M" Series). Scheme 77
Code 54: Fuel Pump Circuit/Circuit Diagram (All Other Models). Scheme 78
Code 54: Fuel Pump Circuit Flow Chart. Scheme 79
CODE 54: FUEL PUMP CIRCUIT (3.1L)
Code 54 will set if the ECM does not see 12 volts on the fuel pump signal voltage monitor during the first 2 seconds after ignition is turned on.
Code 54: Fuel Pump Circuit Circuit Diagram (3.1L). Scheme 80
Code 54: Fuel Pump Circuit Flow Chart (3.1L). Scheme 81
CODE 55: ECM ERROR (EXCEPT 2.5L)
Ensure ECM grounds are good and MEM-CAL is properly latched. If okay, replace ECM. Clear codes and confirm closed loop operation. Check operation of "SERVICE ENGINE SOON" light.
SUMMARY
If hard fault codes are not present and driveability symptoms or intermittent codes exist, proceed to TESTS W/O CODES article for diagnosis by symptom (i.e. ROUGH IDLE, NO START, etc.), or intermittent diagnostic procedures.