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.
Electronic Spark Control (ESC) Retard System (Without ESC Controller)
1990 Pontiac Grand Prix STE, 3.1 VSECTION Electronic Spark Control (ESC) Retard System (Without ESC Controller)
- An open or short circuit on the ESC wire to the ECM will set a related trouble code. A false detonation signal will not cause ECM to set a code.
- If a "Scan" tester is available, connect it to the ALDL connector. Tap on engine next to knock sensor and note "knock" parameter. Knock should be indicated on "Scan" tester.
- If a "Scan" tester is not available, connect tachometer to engine. Start engine and hold above idle. Using a metal object, tap on engine close to knock sensor. A noticeable decrease in engine RPM should occur. If no RPM decrease occurred, check knock sensor to ECM circuit.
- On vehicles equipped with automatic transmission, it may be necessary to place transmission in Drive for timing change to occur. Also, see KNOCK SENSOR in ENGINE SENSORS & SWITCHES in this article.
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:
- • 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.