Catalytic converters must be warm before they can work properly. On a cold start the PCM provides a rich mixture to keep the cold engine running.
All that extra fuel goes into the catalytic converter. But the exhaust isn't very hot, because, ah, the engine is pretty cold. GM has employed several strategies to fire up the catalytic converter quicker and reduce cold start emissions. One way is to use a secondary air pump that pumps outside air directly into the catalytic converter.
A good starting point in your diagnosis is checking all system fuses and fusible links. This can be done using the DVOM on the voltage setting. You will want to test the fuses with circuits loaded. Some fuses will appear normal until a load is placed on their respective circuit; at which point they will fail. This has been the cause of many 'phantom malfunctions'. Consult your vehicle information source for fuse and fusible link locations. If all fuses are in working order, you may want to check TCM relay operation by swapping identical relays. Usually the horn relay, starter relay, fuel pump relay, air conditioning clutch relay, and controller relays are similar enough in design to swap for diagnostic purposes.
If your pcm - idm communications error check engine light is illuminated, it's best to take it in for diagnostic testing, which can feel like a hassle. Because while the lights vary in appearance from vehicle to vehicle, all have the same basic meaning: There's a problem with the car's emissions system. The on-board diagnostics system C242C and engine control unit are in charge of monitoring a bunch of different pcm - idm communications error, and if they get a reading that's a little out of whack, up pops the check engine light.
Difficulty Level (Expert)
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Repair Time (60 Min.)
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| Cost Prediction : $ 80-120 |
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C242C is a kind of Chassis Trouble Code
Diagnosing chassis noises can be one of the most frustrating problems technicians face. Fortunately, manufacturers have engineered noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) diagnostic techniques and equipment to find the source of the noise. |
You can view according C242C DTC for your car model. We selected several models to see obd2 solutions click and view it.
Engine OBD 2 Codes website is a freeware resource center for engine trouble codes.
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