Visual/Physical Inspection

Several of the symptom procedures ask for a careful visual and physical inspection. The visual and physical inspection can lead to correcting a problem without further inspections, and can save valuable time. First inspect the following items:

• Inspect the PCM grounds for being clean, tight, and in their proper location. Refer to Master Electrical Component List andPower and Grounding Connector End Views in Wiring Systems.
• 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. Refer to Emission Hose Routing Diagram (L26, NU3) or Emission Hose Routing Diagram (L26 only) .
• 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, MAF sensor, and intake manifold sealing surfaces.
• The ignition wires are not cracked, brittle, or carbon tracked.
• Inspect the wiring harness for poor connections, pinches, cuts, or other damage.
• Inspect for loose, damaged, or missing sensors/components.

Use the following tables when diagnosing a symptom complaint:

• 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