Code 42, Ignition Control - All Models: Notes

1995 GMC Suburban K2500, 6.5 FSECTION Notes
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 19 other vehicles, including the 1996 Chevrolet Chevy Van, 1995 GMC Vandura Special, 1995 GMC Vandura, 1995 GMC Sonoma, and 1995 GMC Safari. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Code 42 indicates control module has seen an open or short to ground in Ignition Control (IC) or by-pass circuits.

NOTE: Test numbers refer to test numbers on diagnostic chart.
  1. This test confirms Code 42 and determines if fault is a hard failure or intermittent condition.
  2. This tests for a normal IC ground path through ignition module. If circuit is shorted to ground, reading will be less than 500 ohms.
  3. As test light voltage touches by-pass circuit, module should switch. This causes ohmmeter to "over-range" with meter in 100-200 ohm range. A higher ohm range will indicate over 5000 ohms. This test assures module switched.
  4. If module did not switch, this step tests for a short in IC circuit, an open in by-pass circuit and a faulty ignition module connection or module.
  5. This step confirms Code 42 is a faulty control module and not an intermittent problem in IC and by-pass circuits.
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:

  • β€’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • β€’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • β€’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • β€’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.