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.
1998 Chevrolet Cavalier Z24, 2D Convertible, StandardFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Scan Tool Does Not Communicate With EBCM
NOTE:
A short to ground will cause an open fuse(s). Before performing this diagnostic procedure, inspect the fuse(s) for an open.
- Remove the scan tool from the Data Link Connector (DLC). Disconnect the electronic brake control module (EBCM) connector. Test for an open or short to ground in the power circuit(s) to the EBCM. See 1998 SYSTEM WIRING DIAGRAMS CHEVROLET - CAVALIER or 1998 SYSTEM WIRING DIAGRAMS PONTIAC - SUNFIRE article. If there is no fault in the power or ground circuits, go to next step. If there is any fault, repair and perform data link communications system check. See DATA LINK COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM CHECK .
- Test for an open in the ground circuit(s) to the EBCM. See 1998 SYSTEM WIRING DIAGRAMS CHEVROLET - CAVALIER or 1998 SYSTEM WIRING DIAGRAMS PONTIAC - SUNFIRE article. If there is no fault in the ground circuits to the EBCM, go to next step. If there is any fault, repair and perform data link communications system check. See DATA LINK COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM CHECK .
- Test for an open, short to ground or short to battery between terminal No. 9 of the DLC and C2 terminal A1 of the EBCM with a DVOM. See Figure . If there is no fault in the circuit, go to next step. If there is any fault, repair and perform data link communications system check. See DATA LINK COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM CHECK .
- Replace the EBCM. See ELECTRONIC BRAKE CONTROL MODULE in ANTI-LOCK/TCS - ABS-VI article in BRAKES. Perform data link communications system check. See DATA LINK COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM CHECK .
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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