Checks
| Action
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DEFINITION: Engine runs unevenly at idle. If severe, the
engine or vehicle may shake. Engine idle speed may vary in RPM. Either
condition may be severe enough to stall the engine.
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Preliminary Checks
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• | Search for service bulletins. |
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Fuel System
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• | Test the fuel filter for being plugged or restricted. |
• | Inspect items which can cause an engine to run rich (Long Term
FT significantly in the negative range). Refer to Diagnostic Aids for
DTC P0172 Fuel Trim System Rich
. |
• | Inspect items that can cause an engine to run lean (Long Term
FT significantly in the positive range). Refer to Diagnostic Aids for
DTC P0171 Fuel Trim System Lean
. |
• | Test for proper operation of the evaporative emission (EVAP)
control system. |
• | Inspect for fuel in the fuel pressure regulator vacuum hose. |
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Sensor/System
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• | The O2S 1 should respond quickly to different throttle
positions. If not, inspect the O2S 1 for silicon or other
contaminants from fuel or the use of improper RTV sealant. The sensors
may have a white powdery coating. Silicon contamination causes
a high but false O2S 1 signal voltage (rich exhaust
indication). The PCM will reduce the amount of fuel delivered
to the engine, causing a severe driveability problem. Refer
to oxygen sensor in
Information Sensors/Switches Description
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• | Test for proper operation of the following sensors: |
- | Check for proper operation at the IAC valve, |
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Ignition System
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• | Test for proper ignition voltage output with a J 26792
Spark Tester or equivalent. |
• | Inspect the spark plugs for the following conditions: |
- | Burnt electrodes or heavy deposits |
• | If the spark plugs are fuel or oil fouled, the cause of the fouling
must be determined before replacing the spark plugs. |
• | Inspect the ignition control module (ICM) for proper ground connection. |
• | Inspect the ignition coils for cracks or carbon tracking. |
• | Test/inspect the spark plug wires for the proper resistance and
condition. |
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Engine Mechanical
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• | Inspect engine mechanical for the following conditions: |
• | For incorrect basic engine parts. Inspect the following: |
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Additional Checks
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• | Inspect the exhaust system for the following conditions: |
- | Damaged or collapsed pipes |
- | Mufflers for heat distress or possible internal failure |
• | An engine miss condition can be caused by Electromagnetic Interference
(EMI) on the reference circuit. EMI can usually be detected by monitoring
engine RPM with a scan tool. A sudden increase in RPM with
little change in actual engine RPM change, indicates EMI
is present. If a problem exists, inspect routing of secondary
ignition wires, high voltage components (near ignition control
circuits). |
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