How to test the ignition module on a Chevy Cavalier?

If you’ve been wondering how you can test your ignition control module (ICM) on your 2.2L Chevy Cavalier or Pontiac Sunfire? Well, you’ve come to the right place.

Can a GM ignition control module be used?

The ignition control module (ICM) and ignition coil tests in this article assume that your vehicle is Cranking but NOT STARTING due to a NO SPARK Condition. If you’re GM car or truck starts and runs, this article will not help you.

Why is my ignition module not working properly?

It’s also possible the circuits may be critically damaged by overheating if the problem is not addressed after the first or second occurrence. If you cannot start the car, you need to test the ignition control module using a light timing tester to check the output of the module.

What was the ignition module for a 1996 GMC k1500?

1996 GMC K1500, K2500, K3500 Pick Up. All of the information you need to diagnose a misfire or a no-start problem (caused by the ignition coil, the ignition module, or the crankshaft position sensor). Wiring diagrams.

If you’ve been wondering how you can test your ignition control module (ICM) on your 2.2L Chevy Cavalier or Pontiac Sunfire? Well, you’ve come to the right place.

Where do you replace the ignition control module?

But whatever your vehicle model, follow these steps to replace the control module in your car. Park your vehicle in a safe place and locate the ignition module. Look under the dashboard. If yours is mounted here, unplug the module wiring harness.

How to test the ignition module and crank sensor?

We’ll first check for the basics like battery voltage and engine Ground to the ignition control module (ICM).

Where is the distributor on an ignition module?

Install the distributor on the engine following the match-mark and install the distributor cap. Look for the ignition coil and module assembly. Follow the spark plug wires starting at the spark plugs. The wires connect to the coil and module assembly, which may be mounted on the back of the engine.

What is the misfire code on a GM 2.2L?

Check engine light (CEL) on. Misfire Codes: P0300, P0301, P0302, P0302, P0304. Misfire Condition without any misfire codes lighting up the check engine light (also known as the Malfunction Indicator Light: MIL).

Where is the sensor located on a 4 cylinder engine?

You are looking for a small, black plastic electrical connection with a bolt between it and the engine. The sensor bolts onto the engine and is located near the starter, a metal cylinder bolted onto the side of the engine. This is the location for the majority of 4-cylinder engines.

What are the symptoms of a bad crankshaft position sensor?

Cost of Replacing a Bad or Failing Crankshaft Position Sensor. Common signs of a faulty crankshaft position sensor include issues starting the vehicle, intermittent stalling, and the Check Engine Light coming on. Our certified technicians can come to you and diagnose the problem.

Can a bad crankshaft sensor cause a cylinder to misfire?

Should you feel or hear a brief stutter in the engine, it may be a sign of misfiring cylinders from a bad crankshaft position sensor. A failing crankshaft position sensor cannot provide the right information about piston positioning in the engine, causing a cylinder to misfire.

Can a bad ESC module cause no spark?

Another common symptom of a faulty ESC module is a no start, or no spark condition. The ESC module is one of the components that directly controls engine spark, so if it fails, it can leave the vehicle without spark.

What causes a crank sensor to not start?

Now, if the NO START is caused by the ignition module or the crank sensor, usually the ignition coils will not fire any spark at all. Therefore, the second symptom that leads you on the path of a BAD ICM or crank sensor is: No spark at any of the ignition coils.

Can a car with no spark not start?

Car not starting or engine not sparking. Another common symptom of a faulty ESC module is a no start, or no spark condition. The ESC module is one of the components that directly controls engine spark, so if it fails, it can leave the vehicle without spark. A vehicle without spark may still crank, but will not be able to start or run.

Can a bad ignition module cause a car to stall?

Stalling: A failing ignition module can occasionally prevent the engine from getting spark, causing it to stall. 4. Car won’t start: An engine needs four basic things to run: fuel,compression, spark and exhaust.

Where is the valve clatter on a Cavalier 2.2 engine?

One important change has been made in the positioning of it in the 99 upwards Cavalier. It sits on the side of the engine in a cooler spot instead of at the back of the engine. Also, valve clatter is gone because the 2.2 engine has hydraulic lifters now.

Is there a problem with the GM 2.4 engine?

It drove my brother-in-law’s Buick Skylark with the 2.4 engine for nearly 200,000 miles with no problem. One important change has been made in the positioning of it in the 99 upwards Cavalier. It sits on the side of the engine in a cooler spot instead of at the back of the engine.

Why does my GM 2.2 engine make noise?

Could be the tensioner is wore out, but it would be all the time, not just when it is hot. You have to determine the location of the noise. If it is rear, lower, check the torque converter bolts. The 2.2 has a very bad reputation, both in reliability and performance.

Where is the spark plug on an ignition module?

Open the hood and remove the distributor cap using a Phillips screwdriver or ratchet and socket, but do not disconnect the spark plug wires from the distributor cap. Some ignition modules are mounted inside the distributor.

How does a GM ignition coil pack work?

Each ignition coil is fed power, in the form of 10 to 12 Volts, and a switching signal. These two signals are provided by the ignition control module (ICM). Now to test these two circuits, the ignition coil pack has to be removed and using the photos supplied in each test step, I’ll show how to test these Signals.

Where are the ignition coils on a Cavalier?

If you need to test the ignition coils sitting on top of the ignition control module, on your 2.2L Cavalier or Sunfire, click here: How To Test The GM Ignition Coil Packs: 2.2L Chevrolet Cavalier and Pontiac Sunfire. To see all of the GM 2.2L ‘How To Test’ Articles, you can go here: GM 2.2L Main Index Of Articles.

Where is the ignition module located?

On some cars, the ignition module may be housed on or inside the distributor. In other cases, it may be a standalone unit, or it may be integrated into the ignition coil assembly. The ignition module is easy to access and replace on some vehicles, but on others, it’s buried deep inside the engine compartment.

What happens if you have a bad ignition control module?

A faulty ignition control module can cause a number of problems. 1. Check engine light is on: The ECM monitors all parts of the vehicle that could affect emissions. This includes the ignition system. If it determines the ignition module has caused a problem with the system, it will turn on the check engine light.

How does the ECM control the ignition module?

On most vehicles built within the last few decades, the sensor’s signal is sent first to the ECM. The ECM then uses this information to control ignition module operation. On some vehicles, the ECM may control ignition timing above a certain engine RPM, while the ignition module has control below a certain RPM.

How can I tell if my ignition module is bad?

Connect the timer to the positive terminal of the battery and check the continuity of the black output wire while cranking the starter. If the light blinks, the module is good. If the light is blank or constant, the module is bad. Before you attempt to replace the control module, you must rule out other ignition system components.

When does an ignition module need to be replaced?

If the light blinks, the module is good. If the light is blank or constant, the module is bad. Before you attempt to replace the control module, you must rule out other ignition system components. The module is expensive and replacing it is a laborious process. Check the ignition coil for a spark.

We’ll first check for the basics like battery voltage and engine Ground to the ignition control module (ICM).

Why does my car have no spark when I start it?

As a result, This occurs after the ignition coil or module gets too hot. Furthermore, it could correct itself after the engine module cools. In some cases, a bad ignition coil will result in the vehicle not starting it all. A Bad Rotor Or Distributor Cap (cracks or carbon tracks that are allowing the spark to short to ground).

Can a bad ignition pickup cause an engine to stall?

One of the first symptoms of a bad ignition pickup is an engine that stalls and eventually will not restart. Consequently, An old or failing ignition pickup may cut out signal intermittently, which may cause the engine to stall. The engine may suddenly just shut off, almost as if the key had been turned off.

How do you replace an ignition control module?

Remove the two electrical plugs on the side, then remove the two screws that are attaching the ICM to the distributor. You’re now ready to install the new ignition control module.

Where is the ignition coil and module located?

Look for the ignition coil and module assembly. Follow the spark plug wires starting at the spark plugs. The wires connect to the coil and module assembly, which may be mounted on the back of the engine. You might have to raise the front of your car using a floor jack and safely support it on two jack stands.

How does the crank sensor work on the ignition module?

When the engine starts to crank, the crankshaft position sensor starts to produce and send its signal to the ignition control module (ICM). The ignition control module upon receiving this AC Volts crank signal, converts it into a DC digital signal and sends it to the ECM.

Is the ignition control module sensitive to heat?

The ignition control module in your vehicle controls ignition spark sequence and fires the ignition coil as well. However, this electronic component is very sensitive to heat.

Why does my GM car say no start no crank?

How to diagnose a no start no click on GM vehicle. If you have a late model GM vehicle and turn the key only to hear nothing, you’ll most likely think you have a dead battery—and you may. But a no start, no crank, no click condition can be far more involved than that.

What’s the difference between does not crank and does not start?

One is, the difference between does not crank and does not start conditions. Here’s the difference: Does not crank. The starter motor does not turn over the engine for it to start. Does not start. The starter motor does turn over the engine. The engine turns over but does not start. This article concentrates on the no start condition.

How to relearn the crank position variation variation?

Set the parking brake and block the drive wheels. Make sure that the hood is closed. 2. Start the engine and make sure that the engine coolant temperature is at least 158 degrees F. (70 degrees C.) 3. Turn the engine off for at least 10 seconds. 4. Select the crankshaft position variation learn procedure (CASE Learn)on your scanner.

What causes a car to stall with no spark?

Consequently, An old or failing ignition pickup may cut out signal intermittently, which may cause the engine to stall. The engine may suddenly just shut off, almost as if the key had been turned off. Depending on the nature of the issue, sometimes the vehicle can be restarted and driven.

Why is there no spark in my ignition?

An ignition module requires some type of external input in order to activate. If your vehicle stalls unexpectedly during operation and will not start again, it is likely because of loose or corroded electrical connections in the ignition module. In this case, check the switch, clean oxidized terminals, and replace broken wires if necessary.

How long did it take to replace ignition switch on Cavalier?

Dealer had the car for 21 days, and replaced the switch clusters, ignition switch, reprogrammed body control module, replaced pcm and found burnt 3-4 clutch. At 40,613 miles the engine lost power and stalled again (while on the freeway).

Why did my Chevy Cavalier engine lose power?

The car began to lose power and would stall during driving. Dealer had the car for 21 days, and replaced the switch clusters, ignition switch, reprogrammed body control module, replaced pcm and found burnt 3-4 clutch. At 40,613 miles the engine lost power and stalled again (while on the freeway).

Are there any recalls on 1999 Chevy Cavalier?

Poor factory ecm calibration in all or most 1999 2. 2l Cavaliers can leave operator stranded in warm starting condition. Results in poor initial running and large amount of unburned hydroarbons released to atmosphere. A technical brochure exists to remedy the situation, but no recall.

Can you test the ignition coil pack on a Cavalier?

You’ll be able to test the ignition coil packs, ignition control module (ICM) without having to use a scan tool. So, whether your Cavalier or Sunfire has a misfire condition or a no start no spark condition, this article will help you to troubleshoot and diagnose the problem.

How to test the GM 2.2L ignition coil pack?

To see all of the GM 2.2L ‘How To Test’ Articles, you can go here: GM 2.2L Main Index Of Articles.

What happens to the crank sensor on a GMC?

The crankshaft sensor on GMC vehicles is synced to the powertrain control module, or PCM. When the crank sensor is replaced, it must be resynced to the PCM. Without resyncing, the PCM cannot properly determine the position of the crankshaft.

Can a bad ICM cause a crank sensor to go bad?

Therefore, the second symptom that leads you on the path of a BAD ICM or crank sensor is: No spark at any of the ignition coils. Of course, when it comes to Ignition System failures, this is not an absolute truth. These two components could display any number of behaviors when they go bad.

How can I test the crankshaft position sensor?

The crankshaft position sensor is a Magnetic Reluctor type sensor and produces an AC signal that can be measured with a multimeter (in AC Volts mode). On an osciloscope, it produces an analog waveform. There are several ways to test all of these signals. One is using an oscilloscope and the other is using a multimeter.

How can I tell if my Chevy ECM is running?

Turn the Chevy’s electrical system on, but leave the engine off. An active electrical system means the ECM will also be up and running. Count the flash codes and record them onto a sheet of paper. The check engine light will flash the codes at you, in a series of long and short pulses of light.

What causes a car to fail the bar 97 test?

Table 3a below shows the BAR-97- and OIS-to-vehicle communication standards. Vehicles fail for no communication for a variety of reasons. Common reasons include but are not limited to: damaged OBD connector or wiring, aftermarket stereo, transmission computer response instead of engine computer response, and invalid data from the vehicle.

What causes a car to fail a diagnostic test?

Vehicles fail for no communication for a variety of reasons. Common reasons include but are not limited to: damaged OBD connector or wiring, aftermarket stereo, transmission computer response instead of engine computer response, and invalid data from the vehicle. Vehicle communicates with BAR-97.

What is the 7x reference signal on the ignition module?

The ignition control module upon receiving this AC Volts crank signal, converts it into a DC digital signal and sends it to the ECM. This digital signal is called the 7X REFERENCE signal. The ECM, upon receiving this 7X REFERENCE signal, returns to the ignition module an Ignition Coil Control signal thru’ two different circuits.

Where is the ignition module located in a car?

It is usually located on or in the distributor housing in domestic vehicles, and on the firewall or wheel-well in foreign vehicles. Like all automobile components, the ignition module will eventually deteriorate and break.

Where is the CKP sensor on the ignition module?

As you can see, the CKP sensor signal is critical for the ECM and ignition control module to start sparking the Igntion coils at START UP and at all engine speeds. The CKP sensor is located on the block.

What kind of problem does my Chevy Cavalier have?

Have a 97 Z24. Came out to the car after work, wouldn’t start. Good battery, had headlights, windows, no radio, no signal lights. My brother is a mechanic. He met me at work and traced the wires. There is a gray wiring harness / connector on the driver side under the air intake tube.It must have 16-24 wires going in and out of it.

What should the voltage be on a Cavalier radiator fan?

Check the voltage with the meter by backprobing the sensor when the engine warms up. Probe the yellow wire on the sensor with the red wire or input wire on the voltmeter and probe the ground with the black wire on the voltmeter. The voltage should be between 1.5 to 2.0 volts. If not, shut the engine off.

What’s the gas mixture in my Chevy Cavalier?

We just bought new weather stripping for the front windows of the car and they were “discontinued” so we had to pay $75 for 2 pieces of rubber. but it starts great,new fuel filter, platium plugs 10,000 miles old, hook it up to a machine and is said air fuel mixture is at 14.6 when at idull, but get on the gas it’s drop to 12.2.

When did Chevy stop making the Cavalier Z24?

Chevy shut down the Z24 model following the 2002 model year. The 2002 Cavalier Z24 was available as a sedan or coupe, opening the door to buyers with families to enjoy the sportier and more powerful economy car. In its sedan guise, the Z24 was 180.9 inches long, 67.9 inches wide and 54.7 inches tall.

Why does my Cavalier 2.0 liter fan run at 190?

2000 Cavalier 2.0 Liter . Started loosing coolant. Pressure tesed no leaks. Found system pushing coolant out of overflow hose like a garden hose. Replaced thermostat, same problem. Fan runs @ 190 OK. I can only think there is a restricition in the system causing the backup.

What are the specs of a 2002 Chevy Cavalier Z24?

A four-speed automatic was available as an option. The 2002 Cavalier Z24 was no race car, but performed respectably for its class, as it sprinted to 60 mph in an estimated 8.7 seconds and ran through the quarter-mile in an estimated 16.2 seconds.

What kind of engine does a Chevy Cavalier have?

The common engine in the Chevy Cavalier is the 2.2 liter four cylinder. A few models have a 2.4 liter engine. Both engines use two oxygen sensors.