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.
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HOMESERVICE MANUALSPLYMOUTH1990COLT L4-1468CC 1.5L SOHCREPAIR AND DIAGNOSISPOWERTRAIN MANAGEMENTCOMPUTERS AND CONTROL SYSTEMSDESCRIPTION AND OPERATIONSYSTEM DESCRIPTION
1990 Plymouth Colt L4-1468cc 1.5L SOHC
System Description
1990 Plymouth Colt L4-1468cc 1.5L SOHCSECTION System Description
MPI Control System:
The Computerized Engine Control System is built around the electronic MPI Control Unit. The MPI Control Unit constantly monitors return signals from various sensor inputs and then responds by opening or grounding an output device circuit within the MPI Control Unit. As operating conditions change, the MPI Control Unit makes adjustments to maintain optimum performance and fuel economy.
This vehicle uses an oxygen sensor to provide the MPI Control Unit with information concerning air/fuel mixture. The O2 sensor is threaded into the exhaust manifold and measures the level of oxygen within the exhaust gas. A voltage is generated and sent to the MPI Control Unit as an input signal. The MPI Control Unit reads this signal input and the return signals from the other sensors, then will either enrich or lean the air/fuel mixture.
INPUTS
Power Supply (Ignition Switch Coupled)
Power Supply (Battery Backup)
Air Flow Sensor
Barometric Pressure Sensor
Intake Air Temperature Sensor
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor
Throttle Position Sensor
Idle Position Switch
No. 1 Cylinder Top Dead Center Sensor
Crank Angle Sensor
Oxygen Sensor
Vehicle Speed Sensor
A/C ON-OFF Switch
Inhibitor Switch (A/T)
Ignition Switch START terminal (start signal)
Power Steering Oil Pressure Switch
Park/Neutral Safety Switch (M/T)
Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor (California Models Only)
OUTPUTS
Fuel Injector Pulse Width
Idle Speed Control (ISC) Servo
Ignition Timing Power Transistor
Air-Conditioner Power Relay
Fuel Pump Control Relay
Evaporative Emission Purge Control Solenoid Valve
EGR Control Solenoid Valve (California Models Only)
Malfunction Indicator light
Instrument Panel:
MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT
If a component or system malfunction is detected, the MPI Control Unit will illuminate the "MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT" and record the corresponding trouble code(s) in its memory. However, when an irregular signal returns to normal and the engine control unit judges that it has returned to normal, the malfunction indicator light will go out. If the ignition switch is turned OFF and then ON again, the MPI Control Unit will not illuminate the Malfunction Indicator Light until the irregularity is detected again.
Under normal conditions, the Malfunction Indicator Light will be lit for 2.5 seconds immediately after the engine is started. This is to indicate that the light is not burned out and is operating normally.
RENDER: 1.0x
NO RELATED
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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.