Circuit Description
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 GMC Sonoma and 2002 Chevrolet S10 Pickup. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) uses information from the ignition control (IC) module and the camshaft position (CMP) sensor in order to determine when an engine misfire is occurring. By monitoring the variations in the crankshaft rotation speed for each cylinder the PCM is able to detect individual misfire events. A misfire rate that is high enough can cause the three-way catalytic converter (TWC) to overheat under certain conditions. The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) will flash ON and OFF when the conditions for the TWC overheating are present.