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 Prizm LSi, Automatic, A245E/MS7FACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
System Check
- Turn ignition switch to ON position. Engage and disengage parking brake. BRAKE indicator should go on when parking brake is engaged, and go out when disengaged.
- Remove master cylinder reservoir cap. Hold float down (brake fluid level switch is closed). BRAKE indicator should light when float is held down.
- Place manual selector lever in Park or Neutral (A/T) or depress clutch pedal (M/T). Turn ignition switch to START position. Starter should crank and BRAKE indicator should go on, and then go out.
- Turn ignition switch to ON position. Engine ECT gauge should indicate current engine coolant temperature. Outside ambient temperature gauge (if equipped) should indicate outside air temperature in Fahrenheit. Fuel gauge should indicate approximate fuel level. Oil pressure indicator should go on.
- Start engine. Oil pressure indicator should go out. Tachometer (if equipped) should indicate engine RPM.
- Run engine until normal operation temperature is attained. ECT gauge should indicate current engine coolant temperature.
- Open and close each door one at a time. Door ajar indicator should go on each time a door is opened and go out when door is closed.
- Road test vehicle and ensure speedometer is operating properly.
- After performing appropriate testing procedure(s) and making repairs, perform a functional system check to ensure system is operational.
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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