Identifying Intermittent Conditions

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2009 GMC Sierra and 2009 Chevrolet Silverado. 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 movements of a component. Refer to the following for a list of issues that may cause an intermittent condition:

Moisture and water intrusion in connectors, terminals, and components
Incomplete connector mating
Poor 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 too short or tight.
Wire insulation that is chaffed or cut.
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 surfaces
Electro-magnetic interference (EMI)/circuit interference from relays, solenoids or other electrical surge
Incorrect installation of aftermarket, add on accessories