Diagnostic Procedures

2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer 4.2 S, 4WDSECTION Diagnostic Procedures
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Pontiac Aztek and 2002 Buick Rendezvous. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
  1. Did you perform the Diagnostic System Check-Engine Controls? If yes, go to next step. If no, see DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM CHECK - ENGINE CONTROLS  under SELF-DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM.
  2. Are DTCs P0443, P0449, P0452 or P0453 also set? If yes, see DTC P0443: EVAP PURGE SOLENOID CONTROL CIRCUIT , DTC P0449: EVAP VENT VALVE PERFORMANCE , DTC P0452: FUEL TANK PRESSURE SENSOR - LOW VOLTAGE  or DTC P0453: FUEL TANK PRESSURE SENSOR - HIGH VOLTAGE  . If no, go to next step.
  3. Remove the fuel fill cap. Turn ON the ignition, with the engine OFF. With a scan tool, monitor the FTP. Does the scan tool indicate FTP -0.5-0.5 in. H2O? If yes, go to next step. If no, see DTC P0453: FUEL TANK PRESSURE SENSOR - HIGH VOLTAGE .
  4. Disconnect the EVAP purge pipe from the EVAP canister purge valve. Install a hand held vacuum gauge to the EVAP purge port. Disconnect the EVAP canister purge valve harness connector. Monitor vacuum on the vacuum gauge. Start the engine and allow the engine to idle. Increase the idle to 1200-1500 RPM. Does the vacuum gauge indicate an increase in vacuum? If yes, go to next step. If no, see DIAGNOSTIC AIDS .
  5. Replace the EVAP canister purge valve. See appropriate REMOVAL, OVERHAUL & INSTALLATION article. After repairs, go to next step.
  6. Monitor the fuel tank pressure with a scan tool. Start the engine and allow the engine to idle for 3 seconds. Does the scan tool indicate fuel tank pressure is -0.5-0.5 in. H2O? If yes, go to next step. If no, go to step  3.
  7. Observe the stored information, Capture Info with a scan tool. Does the scan tool display any DTCs that you have not diagnosed? If yes, see DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE DEFINITIONS . If no, system is okay.
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

Recommended Tools & Savings

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

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.