Intermittent Trouble Code Determination

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2001 Saturn LW300 and 2001 Saturn L300. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Intermittent is a DTC or symptom, with a condition that cannot be duplicated. Before attempting to diagnose an intermittent condition, ensure powertrain diagnostic system check has been performed. See POWERTRAIN DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM CHECK under SYSTEM CHECKS.

Duplicating Failure Conditions

Freeze frame and failure records data contain the conditions present when DTC set. Review and record freeze frame and failure records data. Clear DTCs using scan tool. Turn ignition off and wait 15 seconds. Operate the vehicle under the same conditions noted in freeze frame and failure records data, as closely as possible. Vehicle must also be operating within code enable criteria. See CODE ENABLE CRITERIA in appropriate DTC test. Monitor DTC Status for the DTC being tested. The scan tool will indicate RAN, when the enabling conditions have been satisfied long enough for the DTC to run. The scan tool will also indicate whether the DTC passed or failed. An alternate method is to drive the vehicle with the DVOM connected to a suspected circuit. An abnormal reading on the DVOM when the problem occurs, may help you locate the problem.

Wiring Harness & Electrical Connectors

Many intermittent open or shorted circuits come and go with harness or connector movement caused by vibration, engine torque, and bumps or rough pavement.
Test for intermittents by moving related connectors and wiring while monitoring appropriate scan tool data. With engine running, move related connectors and wiring while monitoring engine operation. Verify if harness or connector movement affects scan tool data display, component or system operation, or engine operation. Repair condition as necessary.

Intermittents caused by electrical connectors are usually caused by poor electrical connections, terminal tension and/or wiring problems.

Check for poor mating of connector halves, terminals backed out or not fully seated in connector body, improperly formed or damaged terminals or poor terminal tension. Also check for poor terminal to wire connections including terminals crimped over insulation, swollen and stiff sections of wire in suspect circuits, wires that are broken inside the insulation, pinched, cut or rubbed through wiring or wiring that is in contact with hot exhaust components. Repair condition as necessary.

Control Module & Component Power & Grounds

Many vehicles have multiple circuits supplying power to control modules. Other components may have separate power circuits that may also need to be tested. Check connections at module or component connectors, fuses, and any intermediate connections between power source and the module or component. Ensure that the circuit can carry the current necessary to operate the component. Test all control module ground and system ground circuits. Control module may have multiple ground circuits. Other components may have separate grounds that may also need to be tested. Check grounds for clean and tight connections at the ground connection. Check the connections at the component and in splice packs, where applicable.

Temperature Sensitivity

An intermittent condition may occur when a component or connection reaches normal operating temperature. Condition may occur only when component or connection is cold, or hot. Use freeze frame and failure records, scan tool snapshot or vehicle data recorder to help diagnose this type of intermittent. If intermittent is related to heat, check for high ambient temperatures, underhood or engine generated heat, circuit generated heat due to a poor connection, or high electrical load. If intermittent is related to cold, check for low ambient temperatures or water intrusion.

Electromagnetic Interference & Electrical Noise

Some electrical components or circuits are sensitive to Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) or other types of electrical noise. Check for misrouted wiring that is too close to high voltage or high current devices. Check for wires that are too close to secondary ignition components, electrical motors or the generator. Check for non-factory or aftermarket add-on accessories such as lights, 2-way radios, amplifiers, electric motors, remote starters, alarm systems, or cell phones. Test for open diode across AC compressor. Some relays may contain a clamping diode. Check that generator is operating properly.