C4 Tech/Performance L98 Corvette and LT1 Corvette Technical Info, Internal Engine, External Engine

SES Light Code

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Old Mar 31, 2009 | 08:42 PM
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Default SES Light Code

I do not have a FSM for my '90 and I am getting a code 15. I thought there was a place here where I could check codes but I think its in the tech pages we cannot access anymore. My question is, what is a code 15? and how can I fix it?

Thanks in advance!
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Old Mar 31, 2009 | 08:47 PM
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1985-1991: ECM Codes
Code #12: Normal No Codes.
Code #13: Open Oxygen Sensor Circuit.
Code #14: Coolant Sensor Circuit Low.
Code #15: Coolant Sensor Circuit High.
Code #21: Throttle Position Sensor High.
Code #22: Throttle Position Sensor Low.
Code #23: Manifold Air Temperature Circuit High.
Code #24: Vehicle Speed Sensor.
Code #25: Manifold Air Temperature Circuit Low.
Code #32: EGR System Failure.
Code #33: Mass Air Flow Sensor High.
Code #34: Mass Air Flow Sensor Low.
Code #36: Mass Air Flow Sensor Burn-Off Function Fault.
Code #41: Cylinder Select Error.
Code #42: Electronic Spark Timing.
Code #43: Electronic Spark Control.
Code #44: Lean Exhaust indication.
Code #45: Rich Exhaust Indication.
Code #46: Vehicle Anti Theft Fault.
Code #51: Faulty Mem-Cal.
Code #52: Fuel Calpak Missing.
Code #52: (1990-91 Corvette Only): Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Low.
Code #53: System Over Voltage.
Code #54: Fuel Pump Circuit Low Voltage.
Code #55: Defective ECM.
Code #62: Engine Oil Temperature Sensor Circuit High.
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Old Apr 1, 2009 | 07:51 AM
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Thanks!! Coolant circuit high... Would that be the temp sensor on the pass. head? When installing my headers I cracked the plastic off the connector but the leads still appear to be touching. Right now it is only held on by electrical tape. Is there a way to get a replacement wire connector?
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Old Apr 1, 2009 | 07:54 AM
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TRy here
http://www.eficonnection.com/eficonn..._pigtails.aspx
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Old Apr 1, 2009 | 08:21 AM
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Wow!! Cool site, thanks!
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Old Apr 1, 2009 | 09:04 AM
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Originally Posted by Kubs
Wow!! Cool site, thanks!
Yes Indeed ! This site is added to favorites...
I'm going to order a new pigtail, as sensor is on the way----Code 15 here too!
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Old Apr 1, 2009 | 09:06 AM
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NAPA Auto Parts stores always have a good selection of sensor connector pigtails too, if you don't want to wait on shipping and paying shipping fees.
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Old Apr 1, 2009 | 09:16 AM
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Originally Posted by onedef92
NAPA Auto Parts stores always have a good selection of sensor connector pigtails too, if you don't want to wait on shipping and paying shipping fees.

Thanks! I'll stop by and see if they've got it!
I checked with Ecklers and it's on backorder until the end of April??
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Old Apr 1, 2009 | 09:49 AM
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Does having this code make it run rich or have something bad happen? I dont want to overheat my cats or damage something having this issue. I will be making a 3 hour trip this weekend. Is it still OK to drive for now?
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Old Apr 1, 2009 | 09:58 AM
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Originally Posted by Kubs
Does having this code make it run rich or have something bad happen? I dont want to overheat my cats or damage something having this issue. I will be making a 3 hour trip this weekend. Is it still OK to drive for now?
I don't think so, but I'm not an authority on the issue! I'd like to know for certain as well ! Here's all the info I have on the code 15-- Copied from another source---spelling errors and all) This is the info pertaining to a '93LT1

CIRCUIT DESCRIPTION:
The coolant temperature sensor is a thermistor used to vary voltage in the reference circuit from the Electronic Control Module (ECM) to the sensor. The ECM applies a 5.0 volt reference voltage at circuit 410 to the sensor. When the engine is cold, the sensor (thermistor) resistance is high, and the ECM will measure high voltage (near reference voltage). As the engine warms, the sensor resistance decreases, current through the sensor increases and the circuit voltage drops. Each voltage value in the reference circuit corresponds to a specific temperature. At normal engine operating temperature (85°C - 95°C/185°F - 203°F) the voltage will measure about 1.5 to 2.0 volts.

Code 15 will set if signal voltage indicates a coolant temperature below -49°C (-56°F).

TEST DESCRIPTION
Numbers below refer to circled numbers on the diagnostic chart.


Determines if the ECM is reading conditions necessary for this coed to set.
This test simulates conditions for a code 14. If the ECM recognizes the sow signal voltage (indicating high temperature), and the "Scan" tool displays temperature 130°C (266°F) or more, then the ECM and wiring are OK.
This est will determine if circuit 410 is open. There should be 5 volts present at the sensor connector when measured with a high impedance digital volt/ohm meter (DVOM).
DIAGNOSTIC AIDS:
A "Scan" tool displays engine temperature in degrees centigrade and fahrenheit. After engine is started, the temperature should rise steadily to about 90°C/ 195°F then stabilize when thermostat opens. A faulty connection or open in circuits 410 or 808 will cause a Code 15. If Code 21 or 52 is also present, check circuit 808 for faulty wiring or connections. Also check connections at sensor and ECM ground connections. If no problems can be found


Last edited by Epimax; Apr 1, 2009 at 10:01 AM.
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Old Apr 1, 2009 | 02:23 PM
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Does anyone know if driving it like this will hurt anything until I get a new connector?
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Old Apr 1, 2009 | 02:31 PM
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Besides the SES light coming on how is it running?
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Old Apr 1, 2009 | 02:45 PM
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It runs fine and seems to have full power. It takes a little longer to start but it did that sometimes before I changed stuff.
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Old Apr 1, 2009 | 03:13 PM
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If it was me I would more then likely drive it seeing as I knew what was wrong and it was not that big of a deal. But you have to make that decision for your self. You could always reattach the wire best you can, clear your codes see if it comes back.
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Old Apr 1, 2009 | 03:16 PM
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silly question, but I am still new and just starting my 86 resto; when you get the SES light, how can you tell which code is being thrown? Do you need a scan tool, or is there some system of flashing lights to designate the code? BTW: thanks in advance for the list of codes, I am sure I will need that sooner or later!~
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Old Apr 1, 2009 | 03:52 PM
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Use a paper clip to scan the ALDL read the flashes on the display. I would also recommend getting the FSM

http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c4-t...e-readers.html

Last edited by floridamale; Apr 1, 2009 at 03:57 PM.
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Old Apr 1, 2009 | 04:08 PM
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Originally Posted by Kubs
Does anyone know if driving it like this will hurt anything until I get a new connector?

I've driven mine a few days now with no problem besides the annoying check engine light...
The analog gauge works fine, so I can still monitor engine temps!
I'd drive it!
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Old Apr 2, 2009 | 10:10 AM
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Epimax,

Did you get your new sensor yet? What did the part store call it and what does it look like? The only sensor I can find has a two prong connector on it and I need one with a clip like connector. Do I have to convert? Or am I looking at the wrong coolant sensor?
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Old Apr 2, 2009 | 10:20 AM
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Originally Posted by Kubs
Does anyone know if driving it like this will hurt anything until I get a new connector?
Normally when the ECM sees a sensor value out of range such as the conditions required to set a DTC it will ignore that input and use a preset value that should protect other components. I don't think you will have a problem driving it but use common sense, if it runs bad or you see other indications of a problem give it some thought.
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Old Apr 2, 2009 | 01:07 PM
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Originally Posted by Kubs
Epimax,

Did you get your new sensor yet? What did the part store call it and what does it look like? The only sensor I can find has a two prong connector on it and I need one with a clip like connector. Do I have to convert? Or am I looking at the wrong coolant sensor?
Here ya go..
(It's called a coolant temperature sensor)

I bought the 1'st at Autozone, and the new one (which arrived today) from ecklers. $14.99. This one is on the water pump...
Also hear it's available at Napa, etc...
(This catalog says its for 85-96 models)
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