GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Check

Action

Definition: A mild to severe ping, usually worse under acceleration. The engine makes sharp metallic knocks that change with the throttle opening.

Preliminary Checks

Refer to Symptoms

Verify the customer concern.

Cooling System Checks

    • Check for a low engine coolant level.
    • Check for the proper tension on the drive belts.
    • Check for restricted air flow through the radiator, or restricted coolant flow.
    • Check for a faulty thermostat. Refer to Thermostat Diagnosis
    • Check for a correct coolant mixture.

Sensor Check

Check for an Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor that has a shift in value. Refer to Temperature vs Resistance

Fuel System Checks

    • Check if a Lean system causes this condition. Drive the vehicle at the speed of the complaint. Monitoring the Fuel Trim will help identify the problem.
    • If the system is Lean, the Long Term Fuel Trim will be greater than 150.
    • Check the fuel pressure. Refer to Fuel System Diagnosis
    • Check for a poor fuel quality and a proper octane rating.
    • If the fuel trim readings are normal and there are no engine mechanical concerns, then fill the fuel tank with a known gool fuel and re-evaluate the vehicle's performance.

Ignition System Checks

    • Check the spark plugs for their proper heat range and gap.
    • Check the Knock Sensor (KS) system operation.
    • Check the ignition timing.

Engine Mechanical Checks

    • Check for carbon build up. Remove the carbon with a top engine cleaner. Follow the instructions on the can.
    • Check the combustion chamber pressure by performing a compression test.

Additional Checks

    • Check for the proper operation of the EGR Valve. Refer to Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) System Diagnosis
    • Check the Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) operation. Refer to Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) Diagnosis or Torque Converter Clutch Diagnosis in Automatic Transmission.
    • Check the Service Bulletins for calibration updates.