Test Description

2009 Chevrolet Tahoe Base, 4.8 CSECTION Test Description
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 8 other vehicles, including the 2011 GMC Yukon XL, 2011 GMC Yukon, 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe, 2011 Chevrolet Suburban, and 2011 Chevrolet Avalanche. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
WARNING:

While engine is operating, the exhaust system will become extremely hot. To prevent burns avoid contacting a hot exhaust system.

The numbers below refer to the step numbers in the diagnostic table.

  1. 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  Exhaust Back Pressure Gauge.

    Removing the heater oxygen sensor (HO2S) may set a diagnostic trouble code (DTC). When finishing this diagnostic table, be sure to clear all codes.

  2. This step will isolate the catalytic converter from the remainder of the exhaust system.

  3. 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 the 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 
  1. Remove the heated oxygen sensor (HO2S) that is in front of and closest to the catalytic converter. Refer to Heated Oxygen Sensor Replacement - Bank 1 Sensor 1 (1500 Series) , Heated Oxygen Sensor Replacement - Bank 1 Sensor 1 (2500 Series) , or Heated Oxygen Sensor Replacement - Bank 2 Sensor 1 (1500 Series) , Heated Oxygen Sensor Replacement - Bank 2 Sensor 1 (2500 Series) .
  2. Install the J 35314-A  Exhaust Back Pressure Gauge in place of the HO2S sensor.
  3. Start the engine.
  4. Increase and monitor the engine speed at 2, 000 RPM.
  5. Observe the exhaust system back pressure reading on the gauge.
Does the reading exceed the specified value?
3.4 kPa (0.5 psi) Go to Step 4  Go to Step 7 
  1. Turn the engine OFF and place the ignition in the lock position.
  2. Remove the J 35314-A .
  3. Re-install the HO2S sensor. Refer to Heated Oxygen Sensor Replacement - Bank 1 Sensor 1 (1500 Series) , Heated Oxygen Sensor Replacement - Bank 1 Sensor 1 (2500 Series) , or Heated Oxygen Sensor Replacement - Bank 2 Sensor 1 (1500 Series) , Heated Oxygen Sensor Replacement - Bank 2 Sensor 1 (2500 Series) .
  4. Remove the post-catalyst HO2S sensor. Refer to Heated Oxygen Sensor Replacement - Bank 1 Sensor 2 (1500 Series) , Heated Oxygen Sensor Replacement - Bank 1 Sensor 2 (2500 Series) , or Heated Oxygen Sensor Replacement - Bank 2 Sensor 2 (1500 Series) , Heated Oxygen Sensor Replacement - Bank 2 Sensor 2 (2500 Series) .
  5. Install the J 35314-A  in place of the post HO2S sensor.
  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?
3.4 kPa (0.5 psi) Go to Step 5  Go to Step 6 
5 Inspect the exhaust system for the following conditions:
  • Damage in the exhaust pipe
  • Debris in the exhaust pipe
  • Muffler internal failure
  • Two-layer exhaust pipe separation

Did you find and correct the condition?
- Go to Step 7  -
6 Replace the catalytic converter. Refer to Catalytic Converter Replacement (with Exhaust Clamp) .
Did you find and correct the condition?
- Go to Step 7  -
  1. Remove the J 35314-A .
  2. Re-install the HO2S sensor. Refer to Heated Oxygen Sensor Replacement - Bank 1 Sensor 2 (1500 Series) , Heated Oxygen Sensor Replacement - Bank 1 Sensor 2 (2500 Series) , or Heated Oxygen Sensor Replacement - Bank 2 Sensor 2 (1500 Series) , Heated Oxygen Sensor Replacement - Bank 2 Sensor 2 (2500 Series) .
  3. Clear any codes.
  4. 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.