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HOMESERVICE MANUALSCHEVROLET2001CAVALIER LS, 2.4 TREPAIR AND DIAGNOSISEXTERNAL PAGESDIFFERENT CARSECTION 212 (ENGINE CONTROLS - 2.2L (L61) INTRODUCTION)DESCRIPTION AND OPERATIONPOWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (PCM) DESCRIPTIONMALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) OPERATION
2001 Chevrolet Cavalier LS, 2.4 T

Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Operation

2001 Chevrolet Cavalier LS, 2.4 TSECTION Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Operation
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Pontiac Sunfire and 2004 Chevrolet Cavalier. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) is located in the instrument panel cluster. The MIL will display as either SERVICE ENGINE SOON or one of the following symbols when commanded ON:

Fig 1: MIL Symbol On Instrument Cluster
GM800893Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

The MIL indicates that an emissions related fault has occurred and vehicle service is required.

Fig 2: Check Engine Light Symbol
GM802451Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

The following is a list of the modes of operation for the MIL:

  • The MIL illuminates when the ignition is turned ON, with the engine OFF. This is a bulb test to ensure the MIL is able to illuminate.
  • The MIL turns OFF after the engine is started if a diagnostic fault is not present.
  • The MIL remains illuminated after the engine is started if the control module detects a fault. A diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is stored any time the control module illuminates the MIL due to an emissions related fault. The MIL turns OFF after three consecutive ignition cycles in which a Test Passed has been reported for the diagnostic test that originally caused the MIL to illuminate.
  • The MIL flashes if the control module detects a misfire condition which could damage the catalytic converter.
  • When the MIL is illuminated and the engine stalls, the MIL will remain illuminated as long as the ignition is ON.
  • When the MIL is not illuminated and the engine stalls, the MIL will not illuminate until the ignition is cycled OFF and then ON.
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