Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Self-Diagnosis Function
The powertrain control module (PCM) diagnoses any troubles which may occur in the engine control system when the ignition switch is in the ON position with the engine running. The PCM indicates a malfunction by illuminating the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) when a fault occurs in any of the following systems:
- The heated oxygen sensor 1 (HO2S 1)
- The heated oxygen sensor 2 (HO2S 2)
- The engine coolant temperature (ECT) sensor
- The throttle position (TP) sensor (including the CTP switch)
- The vehicle speed sensor (VSS)
- The intake air temperature (IAT) sensor
- The mass air flow (MAF) sensor
- The camshaft position (CMP) sensor
- The crankshaft position (CKP) sensor
- The knock sensor (KS) system
- The evaporative emission (EVAP) control system
- The idle air control (IAC) system
- The CMP actuator solenoid system
- The rocker arm oil control system
- The misfire detection
- The fuel-trim
- The catalyst monitor
- The central processing unit (CPU) of the PCM
When the PCM detects a malfunction in one of the above areas, the PCM will illuminate or flash the MIL in order to notify the driver of the occurrence of a fault.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.