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 the following circuits, systems, and conditions even though they could have malfunctions that result in driveability problems. A diagnostic code may not be displayed for the 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 the 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 or Cam sensor.(*)
Fuel Pressure - Fuel pressure is controlled by the 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 a clogged fuel injector, a sticking pintle, or that an incorrect injector is 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. (See individual symptoms and their definitions in ACRONYMS .
PCM Grounds - The PCM cannot detect a poor system ground. However, a diagnostic trouble code may be stored in the 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 the PCM monitors the exhaust oxygen content through the oxygen sensor when the system is in a closed loop, it cannot determine excessive oil consumption.
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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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.
