1988 PONTIAC FIERO sensor

DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS 5.OL (VIN El 6EZ-C1-1
SECTION Cl
ELECTWONllC CONTROL MODULE (ECM) AND SENSORS
CONTENTS
GENERAL DESCRIPTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C1-1 Coolant Temperature Sensor . . . . . . . . C1-5
ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE (ECM) . . C1-1 MAT Sensor. . . . . . . . . . . .. . . ... . . . . $1 -5
PROM ........................... C1-1 MAP Sensor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C1 -6
CALPAK.........,................ C1-2 Oxygen (02) Sensor. . . . . . ... . . . a C1-6
ECM FUNCTION . . . , . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C1-2 Throttle Position Sensor (TPS) . . . . . . . . C1-6
INFORMATION SENSORS . . . . . . . . . . . . . C1-2 Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) . . . . . . . . . C1-6
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor . . C1-2 PIN Switch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C1-6
MAP Sensor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C1-2 (PSPS) . . . . . ... .. . . . ... . . .. .. . . . C1-6
MAT Sensor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C1-3 AJC Request Signal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C1-6
Oxygen (Oz) Sensor. . . . . . . . . .. . . . . . C1-3 Distributor Reference Signal . . . . . . . . . C1-6
Throttle Posit~on Sensor (TPS) . . . . . . . . C1-3 Knock Signal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C1-6
Knock Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C1-4 ON-CAR SERVICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C1-6
Park Neutral Switch (Auto Only) . . . . . . C1-4 ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE . . . . . . . 61-6
Crank Signal . . . . . . , . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C1-4 PROM ........................... C1-7
A/C "On" Signal . . . , . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C1-4 Functional Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C1-8
Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) . . . . . . . . . C1-4 CALPAK...................,...... C1-8
Distributor Reference Signal . . . . . . . . . C1-4 COOLANTSENSOR .. . . . . . . . , . . . . . . . . . C1-9
(PSPS) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C1-4 MAPSENSOR ..... ........ ... . .. . .* C1-9
DIAGNOSIS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C1-5 OXYGEN (02) SENSOR . . . . . . . . . a . . a . . C1-9
ECM ............................. C1-5 THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR (TPS) . . . . . C1-10
PROM ........................... C1-5 PARKINEUTRALSWITCH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C1-10
ECM INPUTS.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . , . . . . . C1-5 PARTS
INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C1-10
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE (ECM)
The electronic control module (KCMI (Figure C1-
1) is the control center of the fuel ir!jection system. It
constantly looks at the information from various
sensors, and controls the systems that affect vehicle
performance. The ECM performs the diagnostic
function of the system. It can recognize operational
problems, alert the driver through the "Service
Engine Soon" light, and store a code or codes which
identify the problem areas to aid the technician in
making repairs. See "Introduction" for more
information on using the diagnostic function of the
ECM. For service, the ECM has three parts:
a
Controller (the ECM without the PROM), a separate
calibrator (PROM), and a
CALPAK.
To allow one model of ECM to be used for many
different cars, a device called a Calibrator (or PROM)
(Programmable Read Only Memory) is used (see
Figure
C1-2). The PROM is located inside the ECM,
ancl has information on the vehicle's weight, engine,
transmission, axle ratio, and several others. While one
ECM part number can be used by many car lines, a
ECM PROM ACCESS COVER
1 ECM HARNESS
CONNECTORS TO ECM
45 1196-6E
Figure C1-1 Electronic Control Module (ECM) (5.OL)
PROM is very specific and must be used for the right
car. For this reason, it is very important to checlc the
latest parts book and Service Bulletin information for
the correct part number when replacing
a PROM.
An ECM used for service (called a controller)
comes without a
PROM. The PROM from the old blC>1
must be carefully removed and installctl in the new
EChI (see On-Car Service).

6EZ-C1-2 5.OL (VIN E) DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
PROM CARRIER
PROM (ENGINE CALIBRATOR)
Figure C1-2 - PROM (Calibrator) and CALPAK (5.OL)
CALPAK
ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE SENSOR
HARNESS CONNECTOR TO ECM
LOCKING TAB
4-2-85
*5S 1640-6E
Figure C1-3 - Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor
A device called a CALPAK is used to allow fuel
A failure in the coolant sensor circuit should set
delivery if other parts of the ECM are damaged. It has
either a Code 14 or Code 15. Remember, these codes
an access door in the ECM, and removal and
indicate a failure in the coolant temperature circuit,
replacement procedures are the
same as with a
so proper use of the chart will lead to either repairing
PRO;\/I. a wiring problem or replacing the sensor, to properly
If the CALPAK is missing, it will result in a no
repair a problem.
start
i111d run condition. The CALPAK must be
transferred to a replacement ECM.
MAP Sensor
ECM FUNCTION
The ECM supplies either 5 or 12 volts to power
various sensors or switches. This
is done through
resistances in the ECM which are so high in value
that a test light will not light when connected to the
circuit. In some cases, even an ordinary shop
voltmeter will not give an accurate reading because
its resistance is too low. Therefore, a 10 Meg Ohm
input impedance digital voltlmeter is required to
assure accurate voltage readings.
The ECM controls output circuits such as the
Injector, IAC, Cooling Fan Relay, etc. by controlling
the ground circuit through transistors in the ECM.
INFORMATION SENSORS
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor
The coolant sensor (Figure C1-3) is a thermistor (a
resistor which changes value based on temperature)
mounted in the engine coolant stream.
[,ow coolant
temperature produces a high resistance
( 100,000 ohms
at
-40°C/-40°F) while high temperature causes low
resistance
(70 ohms at 13O0C/266"F)
The ECM supplies a 5-volt signal to the cooliint
sensor thru a resistor in the ECM and measures the
voltage. The voltage will be high when the engine is
cold,
and low when the engine is hot. By measuring
the voltage, the ECM knows the engine coolant
temperature. Engine coolant temperature affects most
systems the ECM controls. The
manifold absolute pressure
(MAP) sensor
(Figure
(21-4) measures the changes in the intake
manifold pressure which result from engine load and
speed changes, and converts this to a voltage output.
A closed throttle on engine coastdown would
produce a relatively low
MAP output, while a wide-
open throttle would produce a high output. This high
output is produced because the pressure inside the
manifold is the same as outside the manifold, so you
measure 100% of outside air pressure. Manifold
absolute pressure (MAP) is the OPPOSITE of what
you would measure on a vacuum gage.
SENSOR
MANIFOLD VACUUM TUBE
ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR
Figure C1-4 - MAP Sensor

DRIVEABILPTY AND EMISSIONS 5.QL (VIN E) 6E2-C"1-3
MAT SENSOR (TYPICAL)
Figure C1-5 - MAT Sensor - Typical
When manifold pressure is high, vacuum is low. The
MAP
sensor is also used to measure barometric
pressure under certain conditions, which allows the
ECM to automatically adjust for different altitudes.
The ECM sends a 5-volt reference signal to the
MAP sensor. As the manifold pressure changes, the
electrical resistance of the sensor also changes. By
monitoring the sensor output voltage, the ECM knows
the manifold pressure. A higher pressure, low vacuum
(high voltage) requires more fuel, while a lower
pressure, higher vacuum (low voltage) requires less
fuel.
The
ECM uses the MAP sensor to control fuel delivery
and ignition timing.
A failure in the
MAP sensor circuit should set a
Code 33 or Code 34.
Manifold Air Temperature (MAT) Sensor
The manifold air temperature sensor (MAT) is a
thermistor, a resistor which changes value based on
the temperature of air entering the enigne. Low
temperature produces
a high resistance ( 100,000 ohms
at
- 40°C I- 40°F), while high temperature causes low
resistance (70 ohms at 130°C
I 226°F). The ECM
supplies a
5 volt signal to the sensor through a resistor
in the ECM and measures the voltage. The voltage
will be high when the intake air is cold and low when
the air is hot. By measuring the voltage, the ECM
knows the manifold air temperature.
The MAT sensor is also used to control spark
timing and to delay EGR when
intake air is cold.
A failure in the
MAT sensor circuit should set
either a Code 23 or Code 25.
Oxygen (02) Sensor
The exhaust oxygen sensor is mounted in the
exhaust system where it can monitor the
oxygen
content of the exhaust gas stream.
EXHAUST OXYGEN (02)
Figure C1-6 - Exhaust Oxygen (Oz) Sensor
The oxygen content in the exhaust reacts with the
oxygen sensor to produce a voltage output. This
voltage ranges from approximately
.1 volts (high 02 -
lean mixture) to .9 volts (low 02 - rich mixture).
By monitoring the voltage output of the O2 sensor,
the ECM will know what fuel mixture command to
give to the injector (lean mixture
- low voltage - rich
command, rich mixture
- high voltage - lean
command). This voltage can be measured with a
digital voltmeter having at least 10
Meg Ohms input
impedance. Use of standard shop type voltmeters will
result in very inaccurate readings.
'I'he 02 sensor, if open, should set a Code 13. A
shorted sensor circuit should set
a Code 44. A high
voltage in the circuit should set a Code 45. When any
of these codes are set, the car should run in the "Open
Loop" mode.
Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)
The throttle position sensor ('I'PS) is connected to
the throttle shaft on the
TBI unit (see Figure C1-7). It
is a potentiometer with one end connected to 5 volts
from the ECM and the other to ground. A third wire is
connected to the ECM to measure the voltage
from the
TPS. As the throttle valve angle is changed
(accelerator pedal moved), the output of the TPS also
changes. At a closed throttle position, the output of the
TPS is low (approximately
.5 volts). As the throttle
valve opens, the output increases so that, at wide-open
throttle, the output voltage should be approximately
5
volts.
By monitoring the output voltage from the TPS,
the
ECM can determine fuel delivery based on throttle
valve angle (driver
demand).If the sensor CKT is open,
the ECM will set a Trouble Code 22. If the circuit is
shorted, the ECM will think the vehicle is at WOT,
and a Trouble Code 21 will be set.

6EZ-C1-4 S.OL (VIN E) DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
THROTTLE VALVE
ENGINE CONTROL MODULE (ECM)
THROTTLE POSITION
(TPS)
8P 0321.
Figure C1-7 - Throttle Position Sensor (Typical)
A brolten or loose TPS can cause intermittent bursts of
fuel from the injector, and an unstable idle, because
the ECM thinks the throttle is moving. Once a trouble
code is set, the ECM will use an artificial value for
TPS, and some vehicle performance will return.
On all engines, the TPS is not adjustable. The
ECM uses the reading at idle for the zero reading, so
no adjustment is necessary.
Knock Sensor
The knock sensor is mounted in the engine block.
When abnormal engine vibrations (spark knock) are
present, the sensor produces a voltage signal, which is
sent to the ESC module.
See Section
"C5" for further information on the
electornic spark control
(ESC) system.
ParklNeutral Switch (Auto Only)
The parWneutra1 (PIN) switch indicates to the
ECM when the transmission is in park or neutral.
This information is used for the TCC
, and the IAC
valve operation.
Important
Vehicle should not be driven with parklneutral
switch disconnected as idle quality will be affected
and a possible false Code
24 VSS.
See Section
"8A" for more information on the PIN
switch, which is part of the neutrallstart and
backup light switch assembly.
Crank Signal
The ECM looks at the starter solenoid to tell when
the engine is cranking. It uses this to tell when the car
is in the Starting Mode.
If this signal is not available, car may be hard to
start in extremely cold weather.
AIC Request Signal
This signal tells the ECM that the AJC selector
switch is turned
"ON", and that the pressure cycling
switch is closed. The ECM uses this to adjust the idle
speed when the air conditioning is working.
Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS)
The vehicle speed sensor (VSS) sends a pulsing
voltage signal to the ECM, which the ECM converts to
miles per hour. This sensor mainly controls the
operation of the TCC system. See "TCC System" for
more information.
Distributor Reference Signal
The distributor sends a signal to the ECM to tell it
both engine rpm and crankshaft position. See "EST
System" for further information.
Power Steering Pressure Switch (PSPS)
I
This switch tells the ECM that the vehicle is in a
parking maneuver.
The ECM uses this information to
compensate for the additional engine load by moving
the IAC valve. The ECM will, also, turn
"OFF" the
A/C clutch when high pressure is detected.
( POWER STEERING PRESSURE SWITCH
Figure C'I-8 - Power Steering Pressure Switch (PSPS)

DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS 5.OL (VIN E) 6EZ-C1-5
DIAGNOSIS
Since the ECM can have a failure which may
effect only one circuit, following the diagnostic
procedures in this section can reliably tell when a
failure has occurred in the ECM. Also,
a Code
55 in
dicates a failure of the ECM.
If a diagnostic chart indicates that the ECM
connections or ECM is the cause of a
problem,and the
ECM is replaced, but does not correct the problem, one
of the following may be the reason:
e
connections. - The diagnostic chart will say "ECM
Connections or ECM". The terminals mav have to be
removed from the connector in order to check them
properly.
@ The ECM or PROM is not correct for the
. - The incorrect ECM or PROM may cause
a malfunction and may or may not set a code.
. - This means that
time the system is
being checked. In this case, refer to the "Symptoms"
portion of the manual and make a careful physical
Solenoids and relays are turned "ON" and "OFF" by
the ECM, using internal electronic switches called
"Drivers".
A shorted solenoid, relay coil, or harness in a
GMP4 computer will not damage the ECM,
but will cause the circuit and controlled
component to be inoperative. When the
circuit fault is not present or has been
repaired, the "Quad-Driver" will again
operate in a normal manner due to it's fault
protected design. If a fault has been repaired
in a circuit controlled
by a "Quad-Driver", the
original
ECM should be reinstalled and the
circuit checked for proper operation.
ECM
replacement will not be necessary if the
repaired circuit or component now operates
correctly.
534636 or BT8405 testers or equivalent provide a
fast, accurate means of checking for a shorted coil or a
short to battery voltage.
e , - Although the
PROM rarely
fails,it operates as part of the ECM.
Therefore, it could be the cause of the problem.
Substitute a known good PROM.
o . - After the
ECM is replaced, the system should be rechecked for
proper operation. If the diagnostic chart again
indicates the ECM is the problem, substitute a known
good ECM. Although this is a rare condition, it could
happen. The
components or circuits and the codes or
charts, related to them are:
@ Code 55 indicates a failure of the ECM.
@ PROM - Code 51.
@ Coolant Temperature Sensor - CHARTS 14 -
15.
@ MAP sensor - CHART 33 or 34. To check the
sensor with no code set, use CHART
C-1D.
e TPS - CHARTS 21 or 22.
e PIN switch - CHART C-1A
@ Crank Signal - CHART C-1B
@ O2 Sensor - CHARTS 13,44,45.
@ VSS - CHART 24 and in TCC System.
e Distributor - CHART 42 and in EST system.
@ Distributor - Chart and in the EST system.
ECM
A faulty ECM will be determined in the diagnostic
charts, or by a Code 55.
PROM
An incorrect or faulty PROM, which is part of the
ECM, may set a Code 51.
ECM INPUTS
All of the sensors and input switches can be
diagnosed by the use of a "Scan" tool. Following is
a
short description of how the sensors and switches can
be diagnosed by the use of "a Scan" tool. The
"Scan"
tool can also by used to compare the values for a
normal running engine with the engine you're
diagnosing.
Coolant Temperature Sensor
A "Scan" tool displays engine temp. in degrees
centigrade. After the engine is started, the
temperature should rise steadily to about
90°C, then
stabilize when thermostat opens.
A fault in the
coolant sensor circuit should set a Code 14 or 15. The
code charts also contain a chart to check for sensor
resistance values relative to temperature.
MAT Sensor
A "Scan" tool displays temperature of the air
entering the engine and should read close ambient air
temperature, when engine is cold, and rise
as
underhood temperature increases. If the engine has
not been run for several hours (overnight), the MAT
sensor temperature and coolant temperature should
read close to each other.

6EZ-C1-6 5.OL (VIN E) DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
A failure in the MAT sensor circuit should set a Code
23 or 25. The code charts also contain
a chart to check
for sensor resistance values relative to temperature.
MAP Sensor
A "ScanJ' tool reads manifold pressure and will
display either volts or
kPa of pressure.
Key "ONJ', engine stopped, (no vacuum), MAP will
read high voltage or pressure, while at idle
(highvacuum), MAP will read low voltage or pressure.
Likewise, on accel., MAP will read high and on decel.,
will read low.
A failure in the MAP sensor, or circuit, should
result in a Code 33 or 34.
Oxygen (02) Sensor
The "Scan" tool has several positions that will
indicate the state of the exhaust gases,
02 voltage,
integrator, and block learn. See "Scan" tool position
information in the Introduction of Section
"6E".
A problem in the O2 sensor circuit should set a
Code 13 (open circuit), Code
44 (lean 02 indication),
Code
45 (rich 02 indication). Refer to the applicable
chart, if any of these codes were stored in memory.
Throttle Position Sensor (TPS)
A "Scan" tool displays throttle position in volts.
The
5.OL should read under 1.25 volts, with throttle
closed and ignition on, or at idle. Voltage should
increase at a steady rate as throttle is moved toward
WOT. The ECM has the ability to Auto-Zero the TPS
voltage, if it is below about 1.25 volts. This means
that any voltage less than 1.25 volts volts will be
determined by the ECM to be
0% throttle. Some
"Scan" tools have the ability to read the percentage of
throttle angle and should read
0%, when the throttle
is closed.
A failure in the TPS circuit or TPS, should
set a Code 21 or 22.
Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS)
A "Scan" tool reading should closely match with
speedometer reading, with drive wheels turning. A
failure in the VSS circuit should set a Code
24.
PIN Switch
A "Scan" tool should read "ON", when in park or
neutral and "OFF", when in drive. This reading may
vary with different makes of tools. Refer to CHART C-
IA for
PIN switch diagnosis.
Power steering Pressure Switch (POPS)
A Scan" tool should read "OFF" normally, and
"ON" with high pressure. This reading may vary with
different makes of tools. Refer to CHART
C-1E for
PSPS diagnosis.
NC Request Signal
If the low pressure switch is closed and AIC is
"ON", the "Scan" tool should indicate
A/C "ON".
Distributor Reference Signal
A "Scan" tool will read this signal and is displayed
in rpm. See Section
"C4", for more information on the
Ignition System
.
Knock Signal
A "Scan" tool will indicate when the ESC module
signals the ECM that knock is present. See Section
"C5" for further information on the ESC System.
ON-CAR SERVICE
ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE (ECM)
Service of the ECM should normally consist of
either replacement of the ECM or a PROM change.
If the diagnostic procedures call for the ECM to be
replaced, the engine calibrator (PROM) and ECM
should be checked first to see if they are the correct
parts. If they are, remove the PROM from the faulty
ECM and install it in the new service ECM. THE
SERVICE ECM
WILL NOT CONTAIN A PROM.
Trouble Code "51" indicates the PROM is installed
improperly or has malfunctioned. When Code "51" is
obtained, check the PROM installation for bent pins or
pins not fully seated in the socket. If the PROM is
installed correctly and Code
"51" still shows, replace
the PROM.
Important
When replacing the production ECM with a
service ECM (controller), it is important to
transfer the Broadcast code and production ECM
number to the service ECM label. Please do not
record on ECM cover. This will allow positive
identification of ECM parts throughout the service
life of the vehicle.

DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS 5.OL (VIN E) 6EZ-C1-9
Figure C1-13 Removing Calpak
COOLANT SENSOR
NOTICE: Care must be taken when handling
coolant sensor. Damage to coolant sensor
will affect proper operation of the Fuel
Illjection system.
Remove or Disconnect
1. Negative battery cable.
2. Electrical connector.
3. Carefully back out coolant sensor.
lnstall or Connect
1. Sensor in engine.
2. Electrical connector.
3. Negative battery cable.
MAT Sensor
Remove or Disconnect
I. Negative battery cable.
2. Electrical connector.
3. Carefully back out sensor.
a Install or Connect
I. Coat threads only with sealant, PIN 1052080 or
equivalent.
2. Sensor in engine.
3. Electrical connector.
4, negative battery cable.
OXYGEN SENSOR
NOTICE:
The oxygen sensor uses a permanently
attached pigtail and connector. This
pigtail should not be removed from the
oxygen sensor. Damage or removal of the
pigtail or connector could affect proper
operation of the oxygen sensor.
rn Important
Take care when handling the oxygen sensor - - -
(Figure (21-14). The in-line electrical connector
and louvered end must be kept free of grease, dirt
or other contaminants. Also, avoid using cleaning
solvents of any tvpe.
Do not drop or roughly
handle the oxygen sensor.
a Remove or Disconnect
1 Negative battery cable.
2. Electrical connector.
3. Carefully back out oxygen sensor.
The oxygen sensor may be dit'ficult to remove
when engine temperature is below
48°C (120°F).
Excessive force may damage threads in exhaust
manifold or eshaust pipe.
1. Negative battery cable.
2. Electrical connector.
3. Carefully back out Oxygen Sensor.
lnstall or Connect
rn Important
A s~ecial anti-seize compound is used on the
oxygen sensor threads. The compound consists of
a liquid graphite and glass beads. The graphite
will tend to burn away, but the glass beads will
remain, making the sensor easier to remove.
New or service sensors will already have the
compound applied to the threads. If a sensor is
removed from an engine, and, if for any
reason it is
to be reinstalled, the threads must have
anti-sei~e
compound applied before reinstallation.
1. Coat threads of oxygen sensor with anti-seize
compound
PIN 3613695 or equivalent if neceshary.
2. Sensor, and torque to 41 N,M (30 ft. Ibs.).
3. Electrical connector.
4. Negative battery cable.
MAP SENSOR
Other than checking for loose hoses and electrical
connections the only service possible
is unit
replacement if diagnosis shows sensor to
be faulty.

6EZ-Cl-10 5.OL (VIN El DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
THROTTLE POSIT ION SENSOR (TPS)
n Remove or Disconnect
1 Air cleaner.
2 Electrical connector.
3 Two TPS attaching screws, lockwashers and
retainers.
4. Sensor.
Install or Connect
1. With throttle valve in the normal closed idle
position, install throttle position sensor on throttle
body assembly, making sure TPS pickup lever is
located ABOVE tang on throttle actuator lever.
2. Retainers and two TPS screws and lockwashers
using a thread locking compound on the screws.
Use loctite 262,
GM part No. 1052624, or
equivalent. Tighten screws.
3. Connector.
4. Air cleaner.
PARKINEUTRAL SWITCH
See Section 8A for location of paruneutral switch. On-
Car Service and Adjustment Procedures are also listed
there.
PARTS INFORMATION
PART NAME GROUP
Controller, ECM ..................... 3.670
Calibrator, PROM .................... 3.670
Sensor, Coolant Temp. ................. 3.682
MAT Sensor ........................ 3.682
Sensor, Exhaust Oxygen ............... 3.682
Sensor, MAP ........................ 3.682
Sensor Kit, Throttle Position ............ 3.764
Switch, Neu Saf and Backing LP ......... 2.698
Figure C1-14 Oxygen Sensor