Section 423 (Engine Controls Troubleshooting - No Codes - 3.8L): Introduction

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 7 other vehicles, including the 2003 Pontiac Grand Prix, 2003 Pontiac Bonneville, 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 2003 Chevrolet Impala, and 2003 Buick Regal. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Before diagnosing symptoms or intermittent faults, perform DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM CHECK - ENGINE CONTROLS under SELF-DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM in SELF-DIAGNOSTICS - 3.8L BONNEVILLE, GRAND PRIX, IMPALA, LESABRE, MONTE CARLO, PARK AVENUE & REGAL article. Use this article to diagnose driveability problems when a current DTC is not present.

Symptom checks are intended to direct the technician to malfunctioning component(s) so that further diagnosis may be performed. A symptom should lead to further testing of specific components or systems, or verification of adjustment specifications.

Use intermittent test procedures to locate intermittent driveability problems that do not occur when the vehicle is being tested. These problems may cause a noticeable driveability problem or cause the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) to illuminate on some vehicles.

It is also possible that certain driveability concerns have been rectified by the manufacturer through reprogramming the PCM. Check with manufacturer for latest information on updated programs.

NOTE: For specific testing procedures, see SYSTEM & COMPONENT TESTING - 3.8L BONNEVILLE, GRAND PRIX, IMPALA, LESABRE, MONTE CARLO, PARK AVENUE & REGAL article. To verify specifications, see appropriate ON-VEHICLE ADJUSTMENTS article, or SERVICE & ADJUSTMENT SPECIFICATIONS article.