Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
1988 Chevrolet Spectrum ExpressFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
CODE 13 (Open O2 Sensor Circuit)
- Ground test terminal at ALDL and connect dwell meter to feedback solenoid (6-cyl. scale). With engine idling, disconnect and ground O2 sensor connector to ECM. See Fig 1 . If dwell is greater than 10 degrees after 30 seconds, go to step 2). If dwell is less than 10 degrees after 30 seconds, O2 sensor or connection is faulty.
- Connect jumper between ECM terminals No. 3 and 20. If dwell is greater than 10 degrees after 30 seconds, go to step 3). If dwell is less than 10 degrees after 30 seconds, repair open from O2 sensor to ECM.
- Check ground at ECM terminal No. 20. If okay, ECM or connection are faulty.
Factory Service Tools
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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.
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