"Hard Failures"

When system failures occur, "check engine" light will illuminate. This is a continuous system function for the purpose of alerting the vehicle operator of a component malfunction. If light comes on and remains on (light may flash) during vehicle operation, cause of malfunction must be determined using diagnostic (code) charts.

The control systems have a built-in fail-safe mechanism. If a sensor fails while driving, the system will use a calculated substitute value to continue engine operation. In this condition, driving performance will be affected but the vehicle may still be driven.

The code(s) remain accessible until after malfunction is repaired or codes are intentionally cleared. Malfunction is determined using diagnostic (code) charts. If more than one code is present, the lowest number trouble code is to be diagnosed first.