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Reading Trouble Codes

The ECM stores component failure information under a related trouble code which can be recalled for diagnosis and repair. Read trouble codes by counting SERVICE ENGINE SOON light flashes or with diagnostic "Scan" tester connected to the ALDL connector. The tester is faster, more accurate and capable of reading information which would require testing individual ECM and sensor/solenoid connector terminals with a digital voltmeter. See SCAN DATA TABLES and SCAN TESTER USAGE in this article.

NOTE: When using a "Scan" tester, there is a time delay between serial data updates. For instantaneous response, a digital voltmeter must be used.

If "Scan" tester is not available, SERVICE ENGINE SOON light flashes can be read by grounding ALDL diagnostic terminal with ignition on and engine off. For example, FLASH, FLASH, pause, FLASH, longer pause, indicates Code 21. The first series of flashes are the first digit of trouble code. The second series of flashes are the second digit of trouble code. Trouble codes are displayed starting with the lowest code. Each code is displayed 3 times and will continue as long as ALDL is grounded.

NOTE: Trouble codes will be recorded at various operating times. Some codes require sensor or switch operation for 5 seconds and others may require longer under certain conditions. Some codes may not set in a service bay operational mode.
ECM TROUBLE CODE DEFINITION

Code No. Circuit Affected
12 (1) No RPM reference pulse
13 Open oxygen sensor circuit open
14 Coolant Temp. Sensor (CTS) signal voltage low
15 CTS signal voltage high
21 Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) signal voltage high
22 TPS signal voltage low
23 Manifold Air Temp. (MAT) sensor signal voltage high
24 Vehicle Speed Sensor circuit
25 MAT sensor signal voltage low
32 EGR system error
33 Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor signal voltage high
34 MAP sensor signal voltage low
35 Idle Air Control idle speed error (2.5L)
42 EST circuit open or grounded
43 ESC retard signal too low (Except 2.5L)
44 Lean exhaust indicated
45 Rich exhaust indicated
51 Faulty PROM, MEM-CAL or ECM
52 Faulty/missing CALPAC
53 System voltage high (2.5L)
54 Fuel pump voltage low
55 Faulty ECM (Except 2.5L)
(1) Display of a Code 12 is normal when no reference pulses are received by ECM (engine not running).
NOTE: Trouble code charts should only be used if SERVICE ENGINE SOON light is illuminated (indicating a current problem exists). Exceptions are Codes 13, 15, 24, 44 and 45 charts, which may be used to help diagnose intermittent codes. Anytime Codes 51, 52, 54 or 55 are displayed with another code, start with 50-series code first and proceed to low profile numbered codes.