Trouble Code Identification: Notes

1990 Chevrolet Chevy Van G20, 4.3 Z, 475/M40SECTION Notes
  1. The DEC system codes indicate a failure of a specific sensor and/or circuit. Sensor/circuit diagnosis may indicate replacement of the ECM. Code 51 indicates that PROM is improperly installed or has failed.
  2. Code 52 indicates that the ECM has failed and must be replaced. If the ECM is replaced and the condition was not corrected, the following may be the cause:
    • An incorrect ECM or PROM application may cause a malfunction and may, or may not, set a code.
    • The ECM connector may be the problem. Connector terminals may have to be removed from the connector to properly check them.
    • PROM failure. Although the PROM rarely fails, it could be the cause of the problem.
    • Replacement ECM may be faulty.
    • Intermittent problem. Make a careful physical inspection of affected sensor/circuit.
    • A shorted solenoid, coil relay, or harness may cause an ECM to fail and a replacement ECM to fail when it is installed. Use Short Circuit Tester (J-34636), to check for short circuits.
TROUBLE CODE IDENTIFICATION

Code (Affected Circuit) Probable Cause
12 (Engine Speed Sensor) No engine speed sensor reference pulse to ECM.
14 (CTS High Temp.) Sensor or signal line grounded.
15 (CTS Low Temp.) Sensor, connections, or wires open.
21 (TPS Voltage High) Open circuit or misadjusted TPS.
22 (TPS Voltage Low) Circuit grounded.
23 (TPS Not Calibrated) Voltage not .25-1.3 volts at curb idle.
24 (Vehicle Speed Sensor) VSS circuit open or grounded.
31 (MAP Voltage Low) Open or short to ground.
32 (EGR Loop Error) Improper EGR vacuum signal.
33 (MAP Voltage High) Open or short to ground.
51 (PROM Fault) Improperly installed or faulty PROM.
52 (ECM Fault) Fault in ECM circuit.
53 (5-Volt Reference Overload) Grounded 5-volt reference signal.
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:

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