1990 Chevrolet Cavalier Base, 4D Wagon, 3.1 T, Automatic, 125C/MD9FACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Fuel Injected: Notes

  1. Check operation of SERVICE ENGINE SOON light. Turn ignition on with engine off. See Figure . SERVICE ENGINE SOON light should be on steady. If light illuminates and stays on steady, go to next step. If light does not illuminate, go to SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT INOPERATIVE. If light flashes, go to step 3).
  2. Grounding the ALDL "test" terminal at this time should cause SERVICE ENGINE SOON light to flash a Code 12, followed by any codes stored in ECM memory. If light goes from bright to dim, this is not considered a code. If light dims or remains on, and does not flash Code 12, see SERVICE ENGINE SOON LIGHT ON STEADY OR WON'T FLASH CODE 12.
  3. If light begins to flash as soon as ignition is turned on, check for a short to ground on the diagnostic test terminal wire between ALDL terminal "B" and ECM terminal No. 5. If circuit is okay, replace ECM.
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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