ECM Trouble Code Definitions

1987 Pontiac Firebird Formula, 5.0 H, AutomaticSECTION ECM Trouble Code Definitions
ECM TROUBLE CODE DEFINITION

Code No. Circuit Affected
12 (1) No RPM reference pulse
13 Open oxygen sensor circuit
14 Coolant sensor circuit shorted
15 Coolant sensor circuit open
21 TPS signal voltage high
22 TPS signal voltage low
23 MAT voltage high
23 M/C solenoid voltage low
24 VSS circuit
25 MAT sensor signal voltage low
31 Purge sol. voltage high (carb.)
32 EGR vacuum control signal
32 BARO voltage low (carb.)
33 MAP sensor voltage high
33 MAF sensor frequency high (PFI)
34 MAP sensor voltage low
34 VAC sensor circuit
34 MAF sensor frequency low (PFI)
35 IAC (EFI) or ISC (carb.) speed error
36 MAF sensor burnoff
41 No distributor reference (HEI)
41 C(3)I ignition - cam sensor loss
41 Cylinder select error (MEM-CAL)
42 EST circuit open or grounded
43 ESC retard signal too low
44 Lean oxygen sensor value
45 Rich oxygen sensor value
51 Faulty PROM, MEM-CAL or ECM
52 Faulty/missing CALPAC or MEM-CAL
53 Faulty alternator, voltage high
54 Fuel pump voltage low
55 Faulty ECM
(1) Code "12" should be displayed only when no reference pulses are received by ECM (engine not running).
NOTE: Trouble code charts should only be used if "SERVICE ENGINE SOON" light is illuminated (indicating a current problem exists). Exceptions are Code 13, 15, 24, 44 and 45 charts, which may be used to help diagnose intermittent codes.
RENDER: 1.0x

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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.