Test Description

2001 Chevrolet Cavalier LS, 2.4 TSECTION Test Description
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 numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.

  1. 4:  The exhaust system has very low back pressure under normal conditions. If the exhaust system is restricted, a significant increase in the exhaust pressure is noticed on the J 35314-A  . Removing the HO2S sensor may set a DTC. When finishing this diagnostic table, be sure to clear all codes.
  2. 5:  This step will isolate the catalytic converter from the remainder of the exhaust system.
  3. 8:  Confirming that the condition has been fixed is essential. If the symptom still exists and the vehicle has a dual exhaust system, proceed to Step 2 and repeat diagnostic procedure on the opposite exhaust pipe.
Restricted Exhaust

Step Action Value(s) Yes No
1 Did you verify the customers complaint? - Go to Step 2  -
2 Did you review the exhaust symptoms diagnostic information and perform the necessary inspections? - Go to Step 3  Go to Symptoms - Engine Exhaust 
3 Is the system equipped with dual exhaust? - Go to Diagnostic Aids Go to Step 4 
  1. Remove the O2S that is in front of and closest to the catalytic converter. Refer to Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S) Replacement (Pre Catalytic Converter) or Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S) Replacement (Post Catalytic Converter) .
  2. Install the J 35314-A  in place of the O2S sensor. See Special Tools and Equipment .
  3. Start the engine.
  4. Observe the exhaust system back pressure reading on the gauge.
Does the reading exceed the specified value?
14 kPa (2 psi) Go to Step 5  Go to Step 8 
  1. Turn the engine off and place the ignition in the lock position.
  2. Remove the J 35314-A  still installed increase and monitor engine speed to 2,000 RPM. See Special Tools and Equipment .
  3. Re-install the O2S sensor. Refer to Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S) Replacement (Pre Catalytic Converter) or Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S) Replacement (Post Catalytic Converter) .
  4. Remove the post-catalyst HO2S sensor. Refer to Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S) Replacement (Pre Catalytic Converter) or Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S) Replacement (Post Catalytic Converter) .
  5. Install the J 35314-A  in place of the post HO2S sensor. See Special Tools and Equipment .
  6. Start the engine.
  7. Increase and monitor the engine speed at 2,000 RPM.
  8. Observe the exhaust system back pressure reading on the gauge.
Does the reading exceed the specified value?
14 kPa (2 psi) Go to Step 6  Go to Step 7 
6 Inspect the exhaust system for the following conditions:
  • Damage in the exhaust pipe
  • Debris in the exhaust pipe
  • Muffler or resonator internal failure
  • Two-layer exhaust pipe separation

Did you find and correct the condition?
- Go to Step 8  -
7 Replace the catalytic converter. Refer to Catalytic Converter Replacement .
Did you find and correct the condition?
- Go to Step 8  -
  1. Remove the J 35314-A  and reinstall the HO2S sensor. See Special Tools and Equipment . Refer to Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S) Replacement (Pre Catalytic Converter) or Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S) Replacement (Post Catalytic Converter) .
  2. Clear any codes.
  3. Road test the vehicle in order to verify the repair.
Did you correct the condition?
- System OK Go to Step 2 
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

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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.