1997 Geo Metro BaseFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE

Shift Indicator Light (M/T)

  1. Turn ignition on, and check shift indicator light. If shift indicator light did not illuminate, go to step 5). If shift indicator light illuminates, start engine. If shift indicator light goes out, go to next step. If shift indicator light does not go out, go to step 3).
  2. Check connectors for backed out terminals, improper mating, broken locks, improperly formed or damaged terminals and poor terminal-to-wire connections. An intermittent malfunction may be caused by a poor connection, rubbed through wire insulation or a wire broken inside insulation.
  3. Check for a short to ground between instrument cluster 13-pin connector terminal No. 3 (Light Blue wire) and PCM 26-pin connector terminal No. 18 (Purple/Red wire). If wires are good, check for a short to ground in instrument cluster printed circuit board. Repair as necessary. If printed circuit board is good, replace PCM. After repairs, ensure vehicle operates properly.
  4. Turn ignition off. Disconnect PCM 26-pin connector. Connect a jumper between ground and PCM 26-pin connector terminal No. 18 (Purple/Red wire). Turn ignition on, and check shift indicator light. If shift indicator light does not illuminate, disconnect jumper wire and go to next step. If shift indicator light illuminates, replace PCM. After repairs, ensure vehicle operates properly.
  5. Using a jumper wire, backprobe between instrument cluster 13-pin connector terminal No. 3 (Light Blue wire) and ground. If shift indicator light illuminates, check for an open in Light Blue wire or Purple/Red wire. If wires are good, replace PCM. After repairs, ensure vehicle operates properly. If shift indicator light does not illuminate, go to next step.
  6. Check for open in Black/White wire between instrument cluster 13-pin connector terminal and junction block. Check for an open IG fuse (15-amp) located in junction block. Check for poor connection at instrument cluster connector. Check for open in instrument panel printed circuit. Also check for faulty indicator bulb. Repair or replace as necessary. After repairs, ensure vehicle operates properly. If no problems are found, go to step 2).
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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.