Visual/Physical Check

Several of the symptom procedures call for a careful visual and physical inspection. This can lead to correcting a problem without further tests and can save valuable time. This inspection should include the following areas:
^ Inspect the PCM grounds for being clean, tight, and in their proper location.
^ Inspect vacuum hoses for splits, kinks, and proper connections, as shown on Vehicle Emission Control Information label. Inspect thoroughly for any type of leak or restriction.
^ Inspect the air intake ducts for being collapsed, damaged areas, looseness, improper installation, or leaking, especially between the mass air flow (MAF) sensor and the throttle body.
^ Inspect for air leaks at throttle body mounting area, mass air flow (MAF) sensor and intake manifold sealing surfaces.
^ Inspect the wiring harness for poor connections, pinches, cuts, or other damage.
^ Inspect for loose, damaged, or missing sensors and/or components.

Use the tables when diagnosing a symptom complaint:
^ Intermittent Conditions
^ Hard Start
^ Surges/Chuggles
^ Lack of Power, Sluggishness, or Sponginess
^ Detonation/Spark Knock
^ Hesitation, Sag, Stumble
^ Cuts Out, Misses
^ Poor Fuel Economy
^ Poor Fuel Fill Quality
^ Rough, Unstable, or Incorrect Idle and Stalling
^ Dieseling, Run-On
^ Backfire
^ Engine Cranks but Does Not Run
^ Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Inoperative
^ Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Always On