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.
Engine Controls - System/Component Tests - 1.6L: Introduction: Terminology
Due to federal government requirements, manufacturers are required to use the same names and acronyms for similar systems and components. The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), in an effort to standardize automotive terminology, has renamed components and systems that preform similar functions. The following SAE TERMINOLOGY table will help eliminate confusion when dealing with some of these components and systems. Only relevant components and systems whose names have changed from current General Motors Corp. terminology have been listed.
| Former Name Or Acronym | New Name Or Acronym | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| ALDL | Data Link Connector (DLC) | ||
| CHECK ENGINE Light | Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) | ||
| Code | Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) | ||
| CTS | Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor | ||
| Diagnostic Circuit Check | On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check | ||
| EFI | Sequential Multiport Fuel Injection (SFI) | ||
| ESC System | Knock Sensor (KS) System | ||
| EST System | Ignition Control (IC) System | ||
| MAT Sensor | Intake Air Temperature (IAT) Sensor | ||
| Oxygen Sensor (O2) | Heated Oxygen Sensor (HO2S) | ||
| Oxygen Sensor (O2) | Oxygen Sensor (O2S) | ||
| Park/Neutral (P/N) Switch | Park/Neutral Position PNP) Switch | ||
| Port Fuel Injection | Multiport Fuel Injection (MFI) | ||
| Scan Data | Scan Tester (ST) Data | ||
| SERVICE ENGINE SOON Light | Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) | ||
| Thermostatic Air Cleaner (TAC) | Air Cleaner (ACL) | ||
| Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) | Throttle Position (TP) Sensor | ||
| Throttle Position Switch | Closed Throttle Position (CTP) Switch | ||
| Throttle Position Switch | Wide Open Throttle (WOT) Switch | ||
|
|||
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Disclosure: Verified tool recommendations may earn an affiliate commission at no 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.
Rather have a pro handle this?
A certified mobile mechanic comes to your home or office. They bring the tools, you stay comfortable. No tow truck, no waiting room, no surprises.
No obligation. See pricing before you book.