2001 Chevrolet Malibu
Service vehicle soon, check engine light.
GM Computer codes P0442 Evap system.
The intake manifold gasket was replaced about about 2.5 months ago.
About 2 weeks ago the service vehicle soon light came on, but it would clear when car was restarted.
Yesterday, dash would not light up and auto head lights would not come on immediately after car was started, but everything would start working after a few seconds. Now various warning lights will stay on and gas gauge will not work after a start, but everything then starts working after a few seconds. Now the check engine light is on with a code of P0442. These problems do not occur each time the car is started. A different combination of head lights not working or warning lights occur each time.
Answer:Be sure to check that the battery cables are tight on the battery, and then follow the ground cable down to make sure it is clean and tight. There are also several grounds on the transmission - engine bell housing.
Sounds like most of the electrical problems are related, except for the Check engine light. code P0442 is a small leak in the Evaporative Emission System. Possibly a bad vent valve in the back, or a fuel tank sending unit seal leaking.
The electrical problems may all be related to the Body Control Module. This BCM controls the functions of the things you are having problems with. Also could be the ignition switch. The ignition feeds power to many of the cars systems, including the lights you have problems with, and the BCM, along with other things. If there was a problem internally to the switch, you would loose power or have low voltage to these areas.
I would also start pulling on various wiring harnesses to check for a loose connection that would effect all these systems.
Chevy Malibu A/C And Radio Won't Turn On
I have a 2002 Chevy Malibu. When I crank the vehicle the engine starts, but the a/c and radio do not turn on for about two minutes. Also, the gas needle sits on empty with the fuel light on for about two minutes as well. After two minutes the car will go back to normal. Do you know what the problem is with my car?
Answer: This may be a problem in the BCM (Body Control Module). The BCM is part controller for these items on this car. Also the the ignition switch is a common problem on this car. The Ignition switch feeds power to these systems, as well as the BCM. A way to test the ignition switch is to have the car running and actually tap on the head of the key with a small hammer or your knuckle to see if this will cause these systems to act up up or correct themselves. The ignition switch is behind the ignition cylinder that the key goes into, and tapping can cause it to act up.
