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HOMESERVICE MANUALSBUICK1980CENTURY BASE, 3.8L ENG VIN AREPAIR AND DIAGNOSISENGINE PERFORMANCEENGINE CONTROL SYSTEMSCOMPUTER CONTROLLED CATALYTIC CONVERTER SYSTEM C-4TESTING & DIAGNOSISDIAGNOSTIC MEMORY
1980 Buick Century Base, 3.8L Eng VIN A

Diagnostic Memory

1980 Buick Century Base, 3.8L Eng VIN ASECTION Diagnostic Memory

C-4 system is designed with a short-term memory. It will store a trouble code as long as the ignition switch is on. When it is turned off, the memory will be erased. To remember intermittent problems, and because some trouble codes do not register for 5-18 minutes after engine warmup, a long-term memory is sometimes needed. To create a long-term memory, connect the orange terminal lead "S" ("R" on 3.8L V6) of the ECM to fuse block cavity marked "GAUGES".

NOTE: Some 1980 vehicles are equipped with a full-time long term memory. To erase memory on these, after repairs are completed, disconnect ECM terminal "S" ("R" on 3.8L V6) and reconnect to briefly interrupt power supply to memory.
RENDER: 1.0x

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.