GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Inspections

Action

DEFINITION: The engine delivers less than expected power. There is little or no increase in speed when partially applying the accelerator pedal.

Preliminary

    • Refer to Symptoms - Engine Controls .
    • Compare the customer vehicle with a similar unit. Verify the customer concern.
    • Remove the air filter and inspect for dirt or a restriction. Refer to Air Cleaner Element Replacement .
    • Inspect the transmission shift pattern and the downshift operation. Refer to Diagnostic Starting Point - Automatic Transmission in Automatic Transmission.

Fuel System

    • Inspect for a restricted fuel filter, contaminated fuel, or improper fuel pressure. Refer to Fuel System Diagnosis .
    • Perform the fuel injector balance test. Refer to Fuel Injector Balance Test with Tech 2 .

Exhaust System

Inspect the exhaust system for a possible restriction. Refer to Restricted Exhaust in Engine Exhaust.

Additional

    • Inspect the control module grounds for being clean, tight, and in their proper location. Refer to Power and Grounding Component Views in Wiring Systems and Engine Controls Schematics .
    • Inspect the torque converter clutch (TCC) operation. Refer to Diagnostic Starting Point - Automatic Transmission in Automatic Transmission.
    • Inspect the A/C operation. Refer to HVAC Compressor Clutch Does Not Engage or HVAC Compressor Clutch Does Not Disengage in HVAC Systems-Automatic.
    • Test the generator output voltage. Refer to Diagnostic System Check - Engine Electrical in Engine Electrical.
    • Monitor the knock sensor (KS) system for excessive spark retard.

Engine Mechanical

Inspect the engine for the proper operation of the following items:

    • Engine compression--Refer to Engine Compression Test in Engine Mechanical.
    • Valve timing
    • Improper or worn camshaft--Refer to Camshaft and Bearings Cleaning and Inspection in Engine Mechanical.