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"Service Engine Soon" light stays on


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petelg
User

Jan 25, 2012, 1:58 PM

Post #1 of 2 (1703 views)
"Service Engine Soon" light stays on Sign In

Hi, I have a 1989 Buick Park Avenue.. I recently changed out the ignition module. Now the " Service Engine Soon" light stays on... an i fix this problem or does it have to go to a shop? Thaks for the help.....PeteSmile


Hammer Time
Ultimate Carjunky / Moderator
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Jan 25, 2012, 2:01 PM

Post #2 of 2 (1701 views)
Re: "Service Engine Soon" light stays on Sign In

 The "check engine" light is an indicator for a system that monitors many electronic functions in the system, also called the "malfunction indicator lamp" (MIL). It can come on for any of hundreds of different causes from any of the systems that the computer monitors. Some are very important and can lead to further component or engine damage and some are emissions related not as serious but still a problem and need to be repaired.

Your first step is to have the computer scanned to retrieve the trouble codes that were set when the check engine light came on. Those codes will give you specific information about what the computer saw and will get you pointed in the right direction to find your problem.



To extract a trouble from the computer for diagnostic purposes, the Assembly Line Communication Link (ALDL) connector is used.
Ground terminals A and B with the ignition "ON" and engine not running. The system will enter the diagnostic mode. In this mode, the computer will display a 12, three consecutive times, by flashing the "CHECK ENGINE", "SERVICE ENGINE SOON" or "MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP" or light. A 12 consists of one flash, a short pause, then two flashes in rapid succession.
After 12 is displayed, any stored trouble s will be displayed by flashing the "CHECK ENGINE", "SERVICE ENGINE SOON" or "MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP" light. All s are displayed 3 times each then a 12 will repeat. In the diagnostic mode, the computer will also energize all computer controlled relays and solenoids.


ALDL Connector (Located Underdash)


The ALDL diagnostic connector is located in the passenger compartment.



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We offer help in answering questions, clarifying things or giving advice but we are not a substitute for an on-site inspection by a professional.



(This post was edited by Hammer Time on Jan 25, 2012, 2:05 PM)






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