Identifying Intermittent Conditions
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Pontiac Montana SV6, 2006 Chevrolet Uplander, and 2006 Buick Terraza. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Many intermittent conditions occur with harness or connector movement due to engine torque, rough pavement, vibration or physical movement of a component. Refer to the following for a list to help determine an intermittent condition:
- Moisture and water intrusion in connectors, terminals and components
- Connector mating
- Terminal contact
- High circuit or component resistance-High resistance can include any resistance, regardless of the amount, which can interrupt the operation of the component.
- Harness that is located too tight or chaffed circuits
- High or low ambient temperature
- High or low engine coolant temperatures
- High underhood temperatures
- Heat build up in component or circuit due to circuit resistance, poor terminal contact or high electrical load
- High or low system voltage
- High vehicle load conditions
- Rough road surface
- Electromagnetic interference (EMI)/circuit interference from relays, solenoids or other electrical surge
- Incorrect installation of non-factory, aftermarket and after factory add on accessories
If an intermittent is determined, refer to Testing for Intermittent Conditions and Poor Connections for specific strategies in diagnosing intermittent conditions.