1994 Oldsmobile 88 Cant Pull Computer Codes

CBECK05

MEMBER
1994 OLDSMOBILE 88
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
98,000 MILES

My Oldsmobile 88 Royale will cut off randomly while driving. It will then only start after 5-10 minutes. The heck engine light comes on at random times but the times do not relate to when the car shuts off. Anyway, when trying to get the car fixed, the Meineke mechanics tried to pull the engine codes to see what was wrong. The problem is there is always an error in pulling the codes and nothing can be returned from the car's computer. 2 other repair companies have the same problem.

Any ideas as to the problems of the car shutting off or not being able to pull the codes from he computer?

Thanks

1 Reply

RASMATAZ

MECHANIC
75,992 POSTS

Hi cbeck05, Welcome to Carpros and TY for the donation

Maybe they're not doing it right pulling code/s-see below

RETRIEVING CODES (NON-SCAN)
NOTE:On models using a 12-terminal DLC (previously referred to as the ALDL), if a wire is present at terminal "B", inserting a jumper wire into test and ground terminals of DLC with engine running will cause fuel injected vehicles to enter field service mode. Flashes of SERVICE ENGINE SOON light will not indicate codes if this is done. See FIELD SERVICE MODE CHECK in BASIC TESTING article in this section. On models not using a 12-terminal DLC or not having a wire present in terminal "B", codes must be retrieved using a hand-held scan tester.

DATA LINK CONNECTOR (DLC) TEST TERMINALS
ApplicationGround/Test
16-Pin DLC(1)
(1)Tech 1 scan tester required to activate output/field service mode.

Turn ignition on. DO NOT start engine. SERVICE ENGINE SOON light should glow. Locate DLC attached to control module wiring harness. Most DLC's are located under dash on driver side of vehicle. For exact location of DLC, proceed to COMPONENT LOCATIONS in the SYSTEM & COMPONENT TESTS article in this section. Insert jumper wire from terminal "B" (diagnostic test terminal) to terminal "A" (ground) of DLC. See Fig. 1 .
SERVICE ENGINE SOON light should begin to flash codes. Each code will be repeated 3 times. If codes are not flashed or SERVICE ENGINE SOON light does not glow, perform DIAGNOSTIC CIRCUIT CHECK in BASIC TESTING article in this section. To exit diagnostic mode, turn ignition off and remove jumper wire from DLC connector.
Fig. 1: ALDL/DLC Connector Terminal ID
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
READING TROUBLE CODES
Control module stores component failure information under a related trouble code which can be recalled for diagnosis and repair. Trouble codes may be read by counting flashes of SERVICE ENGINE SOON light or by reading digital display on a scan tester. Scan tester is faster to use, more accurate and capable of reading information which otherwise would necessitate testing individual control module and sensor/solenoid connector terminals using a digital voltmeter. See SCAN TESTER USAGE and SCAN DATA .
NOTE:When using most scan testers, a time delay exists between serial data updates. For instantaneous response, a digital voltmeter must be used.

If scan tester is not available, reading flashes of SERVICE ENGINE SOON light is possible by grounding diagnostic test terminal "B" (if a wire is present) of DLC with ignition on and engine off. See Fig. 1 . For example, "FLASH, FLASH, pause, FLASH, longer pause "identifies Code 21. First series of flashes is first digit of trouble code. Second series of flashes is second digit of trouble code. Trouble codes are displayed starting with lowest numbered code. Each code is displayed 3 times. Codes will continue to repeat as long as DLC test terminal is grounded.
NOTE:Trouble codes will be recorded at various operating times. Some codes require operation of that sensor or switch for 5 seconds; others require operation for 5 minutes or longer at normal operating temperature, vehicle speed and load. Therefore, some codes may not set in a service bay operational mode and may require road testing vehicle in order to duplicate condition under which code will set.