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.
Intermittent Simulation
To reproduce the conditions creating an intermittent fault, use the following methods:
- Lightly vibrate component.
- Heat component.
- Wiggle or bend wiring harness.
- Spray component with water.
- Remove/apply vacuum source.
Monitor circuit/component voltage or resistance while simulating intermittent. Use test results to identify a faulty component or circuit.
On California vehicles, intermittent simulation may cause the CHECK ENGINE light to flash if an intermittent condition is reproduced on the following circuits.
- Code 12: Airflow meter circuit
- Code 13: Coolant (engine) temperature sensor circuit
- Code 14: Vehicle speed sensor circuit
- Code 33: Exhaust gas sensor circuit
- Code 35: Exhaust gas temperature sensor circuit
- Code 43: Throttle position sensor circuit
- Code 51: Injector circuit
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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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.
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