check engine OPEL FRONTERA 1998 Workshop Manual

6E–285 ENGINE DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
Hesitation, Sag, Stumble Symptom
StepActionVa l u e ( s )Ye sNo
1DEFINITION:
Momentary lack of response as the accelerator is
pushed down. Can occur at any vehicle speed. Usually
most pronounced when first trying to make the vehicle
move, as from a stop sign. May cause the engine to stall
if severe enough.
Was the “On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check”
performed?
—Go 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?
—Verify repairGo to Step 3
3Was a visual/physical check performed?
—Go to Step 4
Go to
Visual/Physic
al Check
41. Check the fuel control heated oxygen sensors
(HO2S, B1S1 and B2S1). The fuel control heated
oxygen sensors (HO2S) should respond quickly to
different throttle positions. If they don’t, check them
for silicon or other contaminants from fuel or use of
improper RTV sealant. The sensors may have a
white powdery coating.
Silicon contamination causes a high but false
HO2S signal voltage (rich exhaust indication).
The PCM will then reduce the amount of fuel
delivered to the engine, causing a severe
driveability problem. For more information, refer
to
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) and Sensors.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
—Verify repairGo to Step 5
51. Check the fuel pressure. Refer to Fuel System
Pressure Test.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
—Verify repairGo to Step 6
6Observe the TP angle display on Tech 2 while slowly
increasing throttle pedal.
Does the TP angle display steadily increase from 0% at
closed throttle to 100% at WOT?
—Go to Step 7Go to Step 18
7Monitor the long term fuel trim on Tech 2.
Is the long term fuel trim significantly in the negative
range (rich condition)?
—Go to Step 8Go to Step 9
81. 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?
—Verify repairGo 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?
—Verify repairGo to Step 10

6E–286
ENGINE DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
Hesitation, Sag, Stumble Symptom
StepNo Ye s Va l u e ( s ) Action
101. 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?
—Verify repairGo to Step 11
111. Check for a loose ignition coil ground.
Refer to
Electronic Ignition System.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
—Verify repairGo to Step 12
121. Check the ignition coils for cracks or carbon
tracking.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
—Verify repairGo to Step 13
131. Remove spark plugs and 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?
—Verify repairGo to Step 14
141. Check the PCM grounds for clearness, 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?
—Verify repairGo to Step 15
151. Check the MAF sensor connections.
2. If a problem is found, replace the faulty terminals as
necessary. Refer to
Electrical Diagnosis for wiring
repair procedures.
Was a problem found?
—Verify repairGo to Step 16
161. Visually/physically check vacuum hoses for splits,
kinks, and proper connections and routing as
shown on the “Vehicle Emission Control
Information” label.
2. If a problem is found, repair as necessary.
Was a problem found?
—Verify repairGo to Step 17

6E–288
ENGINE DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
Default Matrix Table
Service Procedure Default Strategy
A referral strategy has been established to assist the
technician with additional information when the cause of
the failure cannot be determined. If no problem is found
after performing diagnostics, then refer to the default
matrix table for further diagnostic information.
Default Matrix Table
Strategy Based Diagnostic Charts
Initial DiagnosisDefault Section(s)
On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System
CheckVehicle does not enter diagnostics.Chassis Electrical
On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System
CheckVehicle enters diagnostics and
communicates with Tech 2. MIL is
“ON” in diagnostics. Engine does not
start and run.Ignition System Check
On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System
CheckEngine starts and runs, no PCM
codes set. Customer complains of
vibration.—
On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System
CheckEngine starts and runs, no PCM
codes set. Customer complains of
harsh or soft shift, poor performance,
delayed or no engagement into drive
or reverse, transmission fluid leak,
transmission noise or vibration, or
improper TCC operation.Automatic Transmission
PCM Power and Ground CheckOn-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System
Check.Chassis Electrical
PCM Power and Ground CheckOn-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System
Check. PCM power and ground
circuits OK. Data link voltage
incorrect.Chassis Electrical
On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System
CheckEngine starts and runs, no PCM
codes set. Customer complains of
harsh or soft shift, poor performance,
delayed or no engagement into drive
or reverse, transmission fluid leak,
transmission noise or vibration, or
improper TCC operation.Automatic Transmission
SymptomsInitial DiagnosisDefault Section(s)
Intermittents1. On-board Diagnostic (OBD)
system check.
2. Careful visual/physical
inspections.Chassis Electrical
Hard Starts1. OBD system check.
2. Sensors (ECT, MAP, MAF, TP) ;
MAP output chart.
3. Fuel system electrical test, fuel
system diagnosis.
4. Ignition system.
5. IAC system check.Engine Mechanical, Ignition
System Check, Exhaust System
Diagnosis
Surges and/or Chuggles1. OBD system check.
2. Heated oxygen sensors.
3. Fuel system diagnosis.
4. Ignition system.Calibration ID “Broadcast
Code”/Service Bulletins, Ignition
System Check, Generator
Output, Exhaust System
Diagnosis, 4L30-E System Test

6E–289 ENGINE DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
Symptoms Default Section(s)Initial Diagnosis
Lack of Power, Sluggish or Spongy1. OBD system check.
2. Fuel system diagnosis.
3. Ignition system.
4. Knock sensor.
5. EGR operation.
6. EGR system check.Refer to Exhaust System in
Engine Exhaust, TCC Operation,
Calibration ID/Service Bulletins
Detonation/Spark Knock1. OBD system check.
2. Transmission range switch.
3. EGR operation.
4. EGR system check.
5. TCC operation.
6. Fuel system diagnosis.
7. Ignition system.
8. Knock sensor.TCC operation, Cooling System,
Ignition System Check,
Calibration ID/Service Bulletins
Hesitation, Sag, Stumble1. OBD system check.
2. TP.
3. MAP output check.
4. Fuel system diagnosis.
5. Fuel injector and fuel injector
balance test.
6. Ignition system.EGR Operation, EGR System
Check, Generator Output
Voltage (refer to
Chassis
Electrical
), Calibration ID/Service
Bulletins, Ignition System Check
Cuts Out, Misses1. OBD system check.
2. Cylinder balance test.Ignition System Check
Rough, Unstable, or Incorrect Idle,
Stalling1. OBD system check.
2. Fuel injector and fuel injector
balance test.
3. Ignition system.
4. IAC operation.
5. EGR operation.MAP Output Check, Throttle
Linkage, IAC System Check,
EGR System Check, A/C Clutch
Control Circuit Diagnosis,
Crankcase Ventilation System,
Calibration ID/Service Bulletins,
Generator Output Voltage (refer
to
Chassis Electrical), Exhaust
Diagnosis
Poor Fuel Economy1. OBD system check.
2. Careful visual/physical inspection.
3. Ignition system.
4. Cooling system.TCC Operation, Exhaust System
(refer to
Engine Exhaust)
Engine Cranks But Will Not Run1. OBD system check.Fuel System Electrical
Diagnosis, Fuel System
Diagnosis, Fuel Injector and Fuel
Injector Balance Test.
Excessive Exhaust Emissions or
Odors1. OBD system check.
2. Emission test.
3. Cooling system.
4. Fuel system diagnosis.
5. Fuel injector and fuel injector
balance test.
6. Crankcase ventilation system.
7. Ignition system.
8. MAP output check.EGR System Check, Exhaust
Diagnosis, Calibration ID/Service
Bulletins
Dieseling, Run-On1. OBD system check.
2. Careful visual/physical inspection.
3. Fuel system diagnosis.—

6E–290
ENGINE DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
Symptoms Default Section(s)Initial Diagnosis
Backfire1. OBD system check.
2. Ignition system.
3. Fuel system diagnosis.
4. Fuel injector and fuel injector
balance test.
5. EGR operation, EGR system
check.Exhaust System Diagnosis,
Intake Casting Flash, Ignition
System Check
Catalyst Monitor1. OBD system check.
2. Careful visual/physical inspection.
3. Heated oxygen sensors.Exhaust System
Fuel Trim1. OBD system check.
2. Careful visual/physical inspection.
3. Fuel system diagnosis.
4. Heated oxygen sensors, MAF
sensors.Exhaust System Intake Air
System
Evaporative Emissions1. OBD system check.
2. Careful visual/physical inspection.
3. Fuel system diagnosis.—
Heated Oxygen Sensors1. OBD system check.
2. Careful visual/physical inspection.Exhaust System

6E–299 ENGINE DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
damage, therefore, it is important to use care when
handling and testing electronic components.
NOTE: To prevent possible Electrostatic Discharge
damage, follow these guidelines:
Do not touch the control module connector pins or
soldered components on the control module circuit
board.
Do not open the replacement part package until the
part is ready to be installed.
Before removing the part from the package, ground
the package to a known good ground on the vehicle.
If the part has been handled while sliding across the
seat, or while sitting down from a standing position, or
while walking a distance, touch a known good ground
before installing the part.
NOTE: To prevent internal PCM damage, the ignition
must be in the “OFF” position in order to disconnect or
reconnect power to the PCM (for example: battery cable,
PCM pigtail, PCM fuse, jumper cables, etc.).
IMPORTANT:When replacing the production PCM
with a service PCM, it is important to transfer the
broadcast code and production PCM number to the
service PCM label. This will allow positive identification of
PCM parts throughout the service life of the vehicle. Do
not record this information on the metal PCM cover.
IMPORTANT:The ignition should always be in the
“OFF” position in order to install or remove the PCM
connectors.
Service of the PCM should normally consist of either re-
placement of the PCM or EEPROM programming. If the
diagnostic procedures call for the PCM to be replaced,
the PCM should be checked first to ensure it is the correct
part. If it is, remove the faulty PCM and install the new
service PCM.
The service PCM EEPROM will not be programmed.
DTC P0601 indicates the check sum error.
Removal Procedure
1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
2. Block the wheels.
3. Remove the front console assembly.
1. Remove the four screws.
TS23755
2. Remove the transfer shift lever knob by
unscrewing the knob.
3. Move the transmission gear selector out of the
park position.
4. Lift up sharply on the back edge of the assembly.
5. Disconnect the seat heater switch connectors (if
equipped).
6. Disconnect the POWER and WINTER switch
connectors.
7. Lift out the front console assembly.
TS23756

6E–300
ENGINE DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
4. Disconnect the red, white, and blue electrical
connectors at the PCM.
5. Remove the two screws in the front of the PCM.
6. Remove the one screw at the left rear of the PCM.
7. Pull the PCM straight out from the dashboard.
TS23757
Installation Procedure
1. Insert the PCM into the dashboard.
Line up the holes in front for the mounting screws.
2. Install the PCM with two screws in the front and one
screw at the left rear.
3. Plug the red, white, and blue connectors into the
appropriate sockets.
TS23757
EEPROM
General Description
The Electronically Erasable Programmable Read Only
Memory (EEPROM) is a permanent memory that is
physically soldered within the PCM. The EEPROM
contains program and calibration information that the
PCM needs to control powertrain operation.
EEPROM Programming
1. Step-up – Ensure that the following conditions have
been met:
The battery is fully charged.
The ignition is “ON.”
The Vehicle Interface Module cable connection at
the DLC is secure.
2. Program the PCM using the latest software matching
the vehicle. Refer to up-to-date Techline equipment
user’s instructions.
3. If the PCM fails to program, Refer to
UBS 98 model
year Immobilizer Workshop Manual.
Functional Check
1. Perform the On-Board Diagnostic System Check.
2. Start the engine and run for one minute.
3. Scan for DTCs using the Tech 2.
Power Steering Pressure (PSP)
Switch
General Description
The Power Steering Pressure (PSP) switch closes when
the hydraulic pressure reaches 3920
690 kPa (570
100 psi). This causes the PCM to actuate the idle air
control valve in order to prevent the additional load from
slowing down the engine. The switch opens when the
hydraulic pressure drops to 2970
560 kPa (430 80
psi).
Removal Procedure
1. Disconnect the PSP switch pigtail from the wiring
harness.
The pigtail is permanently attached to the switch.
Do not attempt to remove the wires from the
sensor.
Have a container ready to catch the power steering
fluid that leaks out of the line when the switch is
removed.

6E–301 ENGINE DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
2. Remove the PSP switch from the power steering line.
Plug the line to prevent excessive loss of fluid and
possible contamination of the power steering
system.
TS23760
Installation Procedure
1. Install the PSP switch in the power steering line.
TS23760
2. Connect the PSP switch pigtail to the wiring harness.
3. Check the power steering fluid level. Refer to
Power
Steering
.
4. Start the engine. Watch the PSP switch for signs of
fluid leakage.
Throttle Position (TP) Sensor
Removal Procedure
1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
2. Disconnect the TPS electrical connector.3. Remove the bolts and the TP sensor from the throttle
body.
TS23747
NOTE: Do not clean the TP sensor by soaking it in
solvent. The sensor will be damaged as a result.
Function Check
Use a Tech 2 to check the TP sensor output voltage at
closed throttle.
The voltage should be under 0.85 volt.
If the reading is greater than 0.85 volt, check the
throttle shaft to see if it is binding. Check that the
throttle cable is properly adjusted, also. Refer to
Throttle Cable Adjustment.
If the throttle shaft is not binding and the throttle cable
is properly adjusted, install a new TP sensor.
Installation Procedure
1. Install the TP sensor on the throttle body with the
bolts.
TS23747

6E–303 ENGINE DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
4. Check the transfer case oil level. Add fluid if
necessary.
5. Connect the negative battery cable.
Air Cleaner/Air Filter
Removal Procedure
1. Loosen the clamp between the air cleaner lid and the
mass air flow sensor.
2. Release the four latches securing the lid to the air
cleaner housing.
3. Remove the air cleaner lid.
TS23973
4. Remove the air filter element.
TS23794
5. Remove the retaining bolts and the air cleaner
housing from the vehicle.
130RT002
Installation Procedure
1. Install the air cleaner housing in the vehicle with the
retaining bolts.
130RT002

6E–306
ENGINE DRIVEABILITY AND EMISSIONS
4. Remove the accelerator control cable (on the
accelerator pedal end).
TS23982
5. Remove the grommet.
6. Remove the accelerator control cable.
TS23983
Inspection Procedure
Check the following items, and replace the control cable if
any abnormality is found:
The control cable should move smoothly.
The control cable should not be bent or kinked.
The control cable should be free of damage and
corrosion.
Installation Procedure
1. Install the accelerator control cable.
TS23983
2. Install the grommet.
3. Install the accelerator control cable (on the
accelerator pedal end).
TS23982