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.
Non-Monitored Circuits
The PCM does not monitor following circuits, systems, and conditions even though they could have malfunctions that result in driveability problems. A diagnostic code may not be displayed for following conditions. However, problems with these systems may cause a diagnostic code to be displayed for other systems. For example, a fuel pressure problem will not register a diagnostic code directly, but could cause a rich or lean condition. This could cause an oxygen sensor, fuel system, or misfire monitor trouble code to be stored in PCM.
Engine Timing (*) - The PCM cannot detect an incorrectly indexed timing chain, camshaft sprocket, or crankshaft sprocket. The PCM also cannot detect an incorrectly indexed distributor.
Fuel Pressure (*) - Fuel pressure is controlled by fuel pressure regulator. The PCM cannot detect a clogged fuel pump inlet filter, clogged in-line filter, or a pinched fuel supply.
Fuel Injectors (*) - The PCM cannot detect if a fuel injector is clogged, pintle is sticking, or wrong injectors are installed.
Fuel Requirements - Poor quality gasoline can cause problems such as hard starting, stalling, and stumble. Use of methanol-gasoline blends may result in starting and driveability problems.
PCM Grounds - The PCM cannot detect a poor system ground. However, a diagnostic trouble code may be stored in PCM as a result of this condition.
Throttle Body Air Flow (*) - The PCM cannot detect a clogged or restricted air cleaner inlet or filter element.
Exhaust System (*) - The PCM cannot detect a plugged, restricted, or leaking exhaust system.
Cylinder Compression (*) - The PCM cannot detect uneven, low, or high engine cylinder compression.
Excessive Oil Consumption - Although PCM monitors exhaust stream oxygen content through oxygen sensor when system is in a closed loop, it cannot determine excessive oil consumption.
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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.