Code 66, N Body, A/C Pressure Sensor: Notes

1991 Pontiac Firebird Formula, 5.0 F, Standard, M39SECTION Notes
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1991 Oldsmobile Cutlass Cruiser, 1991 Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera, 1991 Oldsmobile Cutlass Calais, 1991 Buick Skylark, and 1991 Buick Century. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The A/C pressure sensor responds to changes in A/C refrigerant system high side pressure. The ECM uses A/C compressor load input to determine engine idle speed. Sensor uses a 5-volt reference signal from the ECM and returns an input signal to the ECM on a separate line. Low pressure (zero psi) will return a signal of about .1 volt. High pressure will return a signal of about 4.9 volts.

NOTE: Test numbers refer to test numbers on diagnostic chart.
  1. Checks voltage signal from A/C pressure sensor to ECM.
  2. Checks to see if high signal is from a shorted sensor or a short to voltage in the circuit. Normally, disconnecting the sensor would make a normal circuit go to nearly zero volts.
  3. Checks to see if low voltage signal is from the sensor or circuit. Jumpering the sensor signal circuit to 5-volt reference checks the circuit, connections and ECM.
  4. Checks to see if the low voltage signal was due to an open in the sensor circuit or 5-volt reference circuit since the prior step eliminated the pressure sensor.
RENDER: 1.0x

NO RELATED

Recommended Tools & Savings

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.

Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

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.