Identifying Intermittent Conditions
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 GMC Sierra, 2010 GMC Cab & Chassis Sierra, 2010 Chevrolet Silverado, and 2010 Chevrolet Cab & Chassis 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 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
- Electro-magnetic 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.