Code 43: Electronic Spark Control (ESC)

1983 Pontiac Grand Prix Base, 5.0 HSECTION Code 43: Electronic Spark Control (ESC)
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 28 other vehicles, including the 1984 Pontiac Phoenix, 1984 Pontiac Parisienne, 1984 Pontiac Grand Prix, 1984 Pontiac Firebird, and 1984 Pontiac Bonneville. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Code 43 indicates that the Electronic Spark Control (ESC) retard signal has been seen by the ECM for too long a period of time. When voltage at term. "L" at the ECM is low, spark is retarded. Normal voltage in non-retard mode is about 7.5 volts or more.

NOTE: The following step numbers refer to the numbers in the accompanying flow chart(s).
  1. Normal voltage would be over 7.5 volts. If 7.5 volts is present at term. "L", the reason for a Code 43 is a poor connection to ECM or faulty ECM.
  2. Over 6 volts indicates an overly sensitive knock sensor or controller, or noise in the engine that triggers knock sensor.
  3. This test checks for grounded ECM.
  4. This test checks for an open in wire from ESC to ECM. If over 6 volts was obtained at term. "C" of the ESC, the fault is an open to term. "C" of the ESC, the fault is an open to term. "L" of ECM.
  5. This test checks for 12 volt ignition source to ESC term. B". Reading at term. "B" should be battery voltage.
Fig 1: Code 43: Electronic Spark Control (ESC) Flow Chart
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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.
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  • β€’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.