6E±516
6VE1 3.5L ENGINE DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
Detonation/Sparks Knock Symptoms
StepNo Ye s Value(s) Action
201. Check for an engine mechanical problem. Perform
a cylinder compression check. Refer to
Engine
Mechanical
.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repairGo to Step 21
211. Review all diagnostic procedures within this table.
2. If all procedures have been completed and no
malfunctions have been found, review/inspect the
following:
Visual/physical inspection
Tech 2 data
Freeze Frame data/Failure Records buffer
All electrical connections within a suspected
circuit and/or system.
3. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repair
Contact
Technical
Assistance
6E±517
6VE1 3.5L ENGINE DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
Rough, Unstable, or Incorrect Idle, Stalling Symptom
StepActionValue(s)Ye sNo
1DEFINITION:
Engine runs unevenly at idle. If severe, the engine or
vehicle may shake. Engine idle speed may vary in
RPM. Either condition may be severe enough to stall
the engine.
Was the ªOn-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Checkº
performed?
ÐGo to Step 2
Go to OBD
System
Check
2Was the ªElectric Throttle Control (ETC) System
Checkº performed?
ÐGo to Step 3
Go to ETC
System
Check
31. Perform a bulletin search.
2. If a bulletin that addresses the symptom is found,
correct the condition as instructed in the bulletin.
Was a bulletin found that addresses the symptom?
ÐGo to Step 14Go to Step 4
4Was a visual/physical check performed?
ÐGo to Step 5
Go to Visual/
Physical
Check
51. Check the PCM grounds for cleanliness, tightness
and proper routing. Refer to the PCM wiring
diagrams in
Electrical Diagnosis.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repairGo to Step 6
6Observe the long term fuel trim on the Tech 2.
Is the long term fuel trim significantly in the negative
range (rich condition)?
ÐGo to Step 7Go to Step 8
71. Check items that can cause the engine to run rich.
Refer to
Diagnostic Aids in DTC P0172 Diagnostic
Support
.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repairGo to Step 10
8Is the long term fuel trim significantly in the positive
range (lean condition)?
ÐGo to Step 9Go to Step 10
91. Check items that can cause the engine to run lean.
Refer to
Diagnostic Aids in DTC P0171 Diagnostic
Support
.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repairGo to Step 10
101. Check for incorrect idle speed. Ensure that the
following conditions are present:
The engine is fully warm.
The accessories are ªOFFº.
2. Using a Tech 2, monitor the Engine Speed.
Is the Engine Speed within the specified values?
Desired Idle
Speed
Go to Step 12Go to Step 11
6E±518
6VE1 3.5L ENGINE DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
Rough, Unstable, or Incorrect Idle, Stalling Symptom
StepNo Ye s Value(s) Action
111. Visually/physically inspect for the following
conditions:
Restricted air intake system. Check for a
possible collapsed air intake duct, restricted
air filter element, or foreign objects blocking
the air intake system.
Large vacuum leak. Check for a condition that
causes a large vacuum leak, such as an
incorrectly installed or faulty crankcase
ventilation valve or a disconnected brake
booster hose.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repairGo to Step 9
12Check the injector connections. If any of the injectors
are connected to an incorrect cylinder, correct as
necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repairGo to Step 13
131. Perform the ªInjector Coil/Balance Testº in Fuel
Metering System
.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repairGo to Step 14
141. Check for fuel in the pressure regulator vacuum
hose.
2. If fuel is present, replace the fuel pressure regulator
assembly. Refer to
Fuel Metering System.
3. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repairGo to Step 15
151. Check for proper ignition voltage output with spark
tester J 26792 (ST-125). Refer to
Electronic Ignition
System
for the procedure.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repairGo to Step 16
161. Remove spark plugs. Check for wet plugs, cracks,
wear, improper gap, burned electrodes, or heavy
deposits. Refer to
Electronic Ignition System.
NOTE: If spark plugs are gas or oil fouled, the cause of
the fouling must be determined before replacing the
spark plugs.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repairGo to Step 17
171. Check for a loose ignition coil ground and ION
Sensing Module circuit.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repairGo to Step 18
181. Check ignition coils for cracks or carbon tracking.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repairGo to Step 19
6E±519
6VE1 3.5L ENGINE DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
Rough, Unstable, or Incorrect Idle, Stalling Symptom
StepNo Ye s Value(s) Action
19Using a Tech 2, monitor the throttle position 1 and 2
angle with the engine idling.
Is the TP angle at the specified value and steady?
8 ~ 10%Go to Step 20
Refer to DTC
for further
diagnosis
201. Check the positive crankcase ventilation (PCV)
valve for proper operation. Refer to
Crankcase
Ventilation System
.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repairGo to Step 21
211. Check the transmission range switch circuit. Use a
Tech 2 and be sure the Tech 2 indicates that the
vehicle is in drive with the gear selector in drive or
overdrive.
2. If a problem is found, diagnose and repair the
transmission range switch as necessary (refer to
4L30-E Automatic Transmission Diagnosis).
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repairGo to Step 22
221. Check for the following engine mechanical items.
Refer to
Engine Mechanical for diagnosis
procedures:
Low compression
Sticking or leaking valves
Worn camshaft lobe(s)
Camshaft drive belt slipped or stripped
Incorrect valve timing
Worn rocker arms
Broken valve springs
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repairGo to Step 23
231. Check for faulty motor mounts. Refer to Engine
Mechanical
for inspection of mounts.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repairGo to Step 24
241. Review all diagnostic procedures within this table.
2. If all procedures have been completed and no
malfunctions have been found, review/inspect the
following:
Visual/physical inspection
Tech 2 data
Freeze Frame data/Failure Records buffer
All electrical connections within a suspected
circuit and/or system.
3. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repair
Contact
Technical
Assistance
6E±520
6VE1 3.5L ENGINE DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
Poor Fuel Economy Symptom
StepActionValue(s)Ye sNo
1DEFINITION:
Fuel economy, as measured by an actual road test, is
noticeably lower than expected. Also, economy is
noticeably lower than it was on this vehicle at one time,
as previously shown by an actual road test.
(Non-standard tires will cause odometer readings to be
incorrect, and that may cause fuel economy to appear
poor when it is actually normal.)
Was the ªOn-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Checkº
performed?
ÐGo to Step 2
Go to OBD
System
Check
21. Perform a bulletin search.
2. If a bulletin that addresses the symptom is found,
correct the condition as instructed in the bulletin.
Was a bulletin found that addresses the symptom?
ÐVerify repairGo to Step 3
3Was a visual/physical check performed?
ÐGo to Step 4
Go to Visual/
Physical
Check
4Check owner's driving habits.
Is the A/C ªONº full time (defroster mode ªONº)?
Are tires at the correct pressure?
Are excessively heavy loads being carried?
Is acceleration too much, too often?
Was a problem found?
ÐGo to Step 5Go to Step 6
5Review the items in Step 4 with the customer and
advise as necessary.
Is the action complete?
ÐSystem OKÐ
61. Visually/physically check: Vacuum hoses for splits,
kinks, and improper connections and routing as
shown on the ªVehicle Emission Control
Informationº label.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repairGo to Step 7
71. Remove and check the air filter element for dirt or for
restrictions. Refer to
Air Intake System.
2. Replace the air filter element if necessary.
Was a repair required?
ÐVerify repairGo to Step 8
81. Remove spark plugs and check for wet plugs,
cracks, wear, improper gap, burned electrodes, or
heavy deposits. Refer to
Spark Plug Replacement.
NOTE: If spark plugs are gas or oil fouled, the cause of
the fouling must be determined before replacing the
spark plugs.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repairGo to Step 9
91. Check for low engine coolant level. Refer to Engine
Cooling
.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repairGo to Step 10
6E±521
6VE1 3.5L ENGINE DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
Poor Fuel Economy Symptom
StepNo Ye s Value(s) Action
101. Check for an incorrect or faulty engine thermostat.
Refer to
Engine Cooling.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repairGo to Step 11
111. Check for low engine compression. Refer to Engine
Mechanical
.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repairGo to Step 12
121. Check the TCC operation. Refer to 4L30-E
Transmission Diagnosis
.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repairGo to Step 13
131. Check the exhaust system for possible restriction:
Inspect the exhaust system for damaged or
collapsed pipes.
Inspect the muffler for heat distress or possible
internal failure.
Check for a possible plugged three-way
catalytic converter by checking the exhaust
system back pressure. Refer to
Restricted
Exhaust System Check
.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repairGo to Step 14
14Check for proper calibration of the speedometer.
Does the speed indicated on the speedometer closely
match the vehicle speed displayed on the Tech 2?
ÐGo to Step 16Go to Step 15
15Diagnose and repair an inaccurate speedometer
condition as necessary. Refer to
Vehicle Speed
Sensor
in Electrical Diagnosis.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repairÐ
161. Check the air intake system and the crankcase for
air leaks. Refer to
Air Intake System and
Crankcase Ventilation System.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repairGo to Step 17
171. Review all diagnostic procedures within this table.
2. When all procedures have been completed and no
malfunctions have been found, review/inspect the
following:
Visual/physical inspection
Tech 2 data
Freeze Frame data/Failure Records buffer
All connections within a suspected circuit
and/or system.
3. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repairGo to Step 18
18Perform the procedure in Fuel System Pressure Test.
Was the fuel pressure normal?
Ð
Contact
Technical
Assistance
Verify repair
6E±522
6VE1 3.5L ENGINE DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
Excessive Exhaust Emissions or Odors Symptom
StepActionValue(s)Ye sNo
1DEFINITION:
Vehicle fails an emission test. Vehicle has excessive
ªrotten eggº smell. (Excessive odors do not necessarily
indicate excessive emissions.)
Was the ªOn-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Checkº
performed?
ÐGo to Step 2
Go to OBD
System
Check
21. Perform a bulletin search.
2. If a bulletin that addresses the symptom is found,
correct the condition as instructed in the bulletin.
Was a bulletin found that addresses the symptom?
ÐGo to Step 13Go to Step 3
3Was a thorough visual/physical check performed?
ÐGo to Step 4
Go to Visual/
Physical
Check
41. Check for vacuum leaks. Check vacuum lines,
intake manifold, throttle body, etc.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Were any vacuum leaks located?
ÐGo to Step 13Go to Step 5
51. Check the fuel cap for proper installation.
2. Secure the fuel cap if necessary.
Was the fuel cap installed properly?
ÐGo to Step 6Go to Step 13
61. Check the fuel pressure. Perform the procedure in
Fuel System Pressure Test.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐGo to Step 13Go to Step 7
71. Check for a faulty, plugged, or incorrectly installed
crankcase ventilation valve; also check the
crankcase ventilation system for plugging.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐGo to Step 13Go to Step 8
81. Check the injector connections.
2. If any of the injectors are connected to an incorrect
cylinder, correct as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐGo to Step 13Go to Step 9
91. Perform the ªInjector Coil/Balance Testº in Fuel
Metering System
.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐGo to Step 13Go to Step 10
101. Refer to Engine Cooling for cooling system
diagnosis.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐGo to Step 13Go to Step 11
111. Check EVAP canister for fuel loading. Refer to
Evaporative Emission Control System.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐGo to Step 13Go to Step 12
6E±523
6VE1 3.5L ENGINE DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
Excessive Exhaust Emissions or Odors Symptom
StepNo Ye s Value(s) Action
121. Remove excessive carbon buildup with a top engine
cleaner. Refer to the instructions on the top engine
cleaner can.
2. Perform the exhaust emission test.
Does the vehicle pass the test?
ÐSystem OKGo to Step 14
13Perform the exhaust emission test.
Does the vehicle pass the test?
ÐSystem OKGo to Step 14
14Does the exhaust emission test indicate excessive CO
and HC levels or is long term fuel trim significantly in the
negative range (rich condition)?
ÐGo to Step 15Go to Step 16
151. Check items that can cause the engine to run rich.
Refer to
Diagnostic Aids in DTC P0172 Diagnostic
Support
. Make any necessary repairs.
2. Perform the exhaust emission test.
Does the vehicle pass the test?
ÐSystem OKGo to Step 17
161. Check items that can cause the engine to run lean.
Refer to
Diagnostic Aids in DTC P0171 Diagnostic
Support
. Make any necessary repairs.
2. Perform the exhaust emission test.
Does the vehicle pass the test?
ÐSystem OKGo to Step 17
171. Check the EGR system (refer to DTC P0401).
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐGo to Step 13Go to Step 18
181. Check for an engine mechanical problem.
Perform a cylinder compression check (refer to
Engine Mechanical).
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐGo to Step 13Go to Step 19
191. Review all diagnostic procedures within this table.
2. If all procedures have been completed and no
malfunctions have been found, review/inspect the
following:
Visual/physical inspection
Tech 2 data
Freeze Frame data/Failure Records butter
All electrical connections within a suspected
circuit and/or system.
3. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
ÐVerify repair
Contact
Technical
Assistance