I've ran searches and find the typical DIC code listings but I haven't found this code.

On the DIC: QC Code 413131

This came up after fueling the car. It comes and goes and occasionally the DIC will display "Configure Options" immediately after the code disappears.

Today it came up but went away, later on my return trip it came up and stayed on. All gauges are fine, no loss of power, battery is new.

Ideas?

Thanks
Rick

 

That code isn't on any list of DTC codes I've ever seen.

 

Anybody? This is driving me nuts. It's not associated with any of the systems codes. It just pops up and displays QC Code 413131.

I thought I read somewhere that every C5 had a QC code unique to it but I can't find that now .if I hit reset it goes to enter QC code and each spot where a digit was flashes with a line. I left it alone and the original 413131 came back.

Car runs fine no other codes for any of the systems showing, I don't want to get stranded somewhere.

Bill Curlee, anyone?

 

Sounds like some kind of super secret factory diagnostics thing. I wouldn't mess with it.

 

Sounds like a job for Bill Curlee. Never seen or heard of a code like that one. The codes usually will start with a letter followed by four digits and a h or c or hc.

 

That's why I'm going nuts, I have all the DIC codes and this one is nothing like them.

Looked through the service manuals and found nothing too.

 

According to a very old post on the corvette action center (http://www.corvetteactioncenter.com/...nu-option.html) a QC code is some sort of configuration command that is used by the engineering group. The post recommended NOT to mess with it. That's about all I could find on the subject. I searched yesterday for the specific number you posted, but no luck...

It is too bad that Bill (aka Evil Twin) is on a hiatus from the forum. He'd be the guy with the answer!

Good luck!

 

Thanks for the link Scott, that's where I saw this before. I too just left it alone, it would occasionally jump to Quick Configure Options but what that is I have no clue. Maybe a PM to Evil Twin is in order, I saw he was posting yesterday. Thanks again for the link, I knew I wasn't going crazy! I just want it to stop popping up and be assured I want have any problems.

 

How in the world are you reading that DATA NUMBER / DTC?

Are you using the DIC Code reader internal to the IPC or a external Code Reader???????

Are you using this procedure:

READING YOUR C5 Engine Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC)

This procedure should be carried out any time you experience a problem with your C5. Most inexpensive store bought aftermarket code readers will ONLY read power train DTC’s. Reading the DTC’s with the C5 built in code reader will allow you to read ALL the modules in the vehicle.

The Diagnostic Display Mode is entered with the following procedure:
1) Turn on the ignition but don't start the engine.
2) Press the RESET button to turn off any warning messages. (i.e. door open, trunk open ect)
3) Press and hold the OPTIONS button
4) While holding OPTIONS, press FUEL button four times within a 10 -second period.

Initially, the on-board diagnostics go into an Automatic Mode which will cycle through each module and shows diagnostic codes in a pre-set sequence: PCM - TCS - RTD - BCM - IPC - RADIO - HVAC - LDCM - RDCM - SCM - RFA. All codes will be displayed for each module. ( i.e. PCM = 4 codes) If none are present in a given module, you will see No More Codes on the display.

There are two types of diagnostic codes, Current and History designated with a letter suffix, “C” or “H”. A current code indicates a malfunction is present in the module displaying data. A history code indicates a problem existed sometime in the last 40 or 50 ignition cycles. When not accompanied by a current code of the same number, it's potential evidence of a previous problem, now resolved, that was not removed by clearing the codes. More likely it's an indication of an intermittent malfunction.

Intermittent codes are the most challenging of the diagnostics. An intermittent code may have happened once, may have happened more than once but is inconsistent or may be happening on a regular basis but not at the time the codes are displayed. History codes can also be caused by a current malfunction in a system that is not operating at the time codes are displayed. An example is the rear window defogger which doesn't operate until the Body Control Module detects engine rpm. For history codes set by a module that does not operate with the key on and engine off, a special diagnostic tool called a Scan Tester is necessary to properly diagnose the malfunction.

Once the system has displayed all modules, it goes into the manual mode which allows selection of each module using combinations of Driver Information Center buttons. Manual mode can also be entered during the automatic sequence by pressing any button except E/M. Once the display shows Manual Diagnostics, select a module by pressing the OPTIONS button to go forward or the TRIP button to go back. Once a module is selected, a code is displayed, and if more than one are present; press GAGES to go forward or FUEL to go back.
To exit the diagnostic mode at any time, press E/M. If you want to erase codes in a given module, press RESET To reset the codes once in manual mode, press and hold RESET until it displays NO CODES Press OPTIONS to go to the next module. Repeat the steps until you have reset the codes in all the computer modules.
NOTE!! Only reset the codes IF you want to - it is NOT necessary to do this. Clearing a code does not repair a problem. You are simply erasing the evidence of it in the module's memory. If you clear the code/s, and extinguish the Check Engine Light, your emissions status ready will NOT allow you to pass an emissions test until you have completed the required driving cycles. There are a few body module DTC’s that if set will prevent the module from operating properly. Once the DTC is cleared, the module will return to full function. This is not true for power train DTCs.

If you have never read and cleared your codes, there will probably be a lot of old history DTCs. It is recommended that you clear your codes and see if any come back during a driving cycle. Those are the ones that you need to concentrate on diagnosing.

Once you have the codes, the next question is: What to do with the information?
First, consult the factory service manual. Any serious C5 Do-It-Yourself owner should invest in the Corvette Service Manual of the appropriate model year. The Service Manual is really a requirement if you want to understand and work on your C5.

NOTE and a WARNING. You can read the DTCs while the engine is running. I pull mine up all the time while driving.
WARNING. Don’t become distracted while reading DTCs while your driving and cause an accident!!!!! Use common sense and drive safe.

These are some very good C5 Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) explanation web sites!!! They also explain how to read the DTCs

Here are some very good sites that explain what DTC mean:

http://www.gearchatter.com/viewtopic11755.php

http://www.obd-codes.com/trouble_cod...d-ii-codes.php

Make sure to include the H or C suffix when you post your DTCs!!

NOTE!!! Start the car and let it idle. Then take it for a drive and cause the problem to occur. When you return home pull the codes BEFORE you shut off the engine.


Do NOT discount the codes with the H following them. They can provide an audit trail for issues going on with the car. They ARE important in diagnosing problems.

Post ALL the codes that you pull with the engine running..........

Some codes go away WITHOUT setting an H code when you shut the engine off. I suspect you will have several codes that will show C or HC that do NOT show when the engine is turned off.

 

Bill - I think the OP may have a 1997 model. From what I have read, all the strange QC codes are coming up on 97's. I read somewhere that it "stopped happening" on the 98 and newer C5's.

Just a thought.

 

Yes, 1997, it just pops up sometimes it goes away and sometimes it doesn't. Nowhere in the codes list is anything like it, it displays on the DIC. When I've pulled codes I have only had codes for the O2 sensors since I have BB bullets. This just started last week after getting gas.

It's driving me

I'll post the codes tomorrow, thanks for the help.

 

Seeing "QC" makes me wonder if it's some sort of Quality Control code (verification/confirmation?) in the software at the time the BCM or DIC board was manufactured.

 

Bill - here's the codes that the DIC shows.

PCM - P0420 HC
P1431 H
P1571 H
TCS - no codes
RTD - No communication
BCM - no codes
IPC - B1527 H
Radio - no codes
HVAC - B3061 HC
B0441 H
LDCM - no codes
RDCM - B2265 H
SCM - U1016 H
RFA - No codes

Now the check engine light is on but, I have no idea why, running fine, must be a ground issue. I have a new battery so the battery is good.

Ideas?

Rick

 

PCM - P0420 HC = Catalyst System Low Efficiency Bank 1


P1431 H =DTC P1431 Fuel Level Sensor 2 Performance


P1571 H Dont worry about this one



The check Engine is on cause of the P series codes Specifically P0420. Add a few Chevron Techron Fuel treatments to your fill ups. Each fill up, add a treatments..

It deals with your Post CAT O2 sensor Most likely is bad and or the CAT may be bad.

The C (which means CURRENT) is what is causing the DTC to set

Here is the code definition:

DTC P0420 Catalyst System Low Efficiency Bank 1
Circuit Description
In order to maintain a reasonably low emissions of Hydrocarbons (HC), Carbon Monoxide (CO), and Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx), the engine controls system uses a three-way catalytic converter. The catalyst within the converter promotes a chemical reaction which oxidizes the HC and CO present in the exhaust gas. This reaction converts them into harmless water vapor and Carbon Dioxide. The catalyst also reduces NOx, converting it to Nitrogen. The PCM monitors this process using Bank 1 HO2S #2. Bank 1 HO2S #2, located in the exhaust stream past the three-way catalytic converter, produces an output signal which indicates the oxygen storage capacity of the catalyst. This determines the catalysts ability to convert exhaust emissions effectively. If the catalyst is functioning correctly, the Bank 1 HO2S #2 signal will be far less active than that produced by Bank 1 HO2S #1. If a problem exists which causes the PCM to detect excessive Bank 1 HO2S #2 activity outside of an acceptable range for an extended period of time, the PCM will set DTC P0420. This indicates that the three-way catalytic converters oxygen storage capacity is below a threshold considered acceptable.

Conditions for Setting the DTC
No AIR, CKP, CMP, IAT, IC, MAF, MAP, ECT, TP, EVAP, Left Bank HO2S, Misfire, Left Bank Fuel Trim, Injector, VSS, Engine Protection, or Transmission DTCs are set.
Engine is operating.
ECT is greater than 65°C (149°F).
Vehicle speed is less than 136 km/h (85 mph).
Throttle angle is greater than 10%.
Engine speed is less than 4000 RPM.
MAP is between 25 kPa and 80 kPa.
Air flow is between 14 gm/s and 40 gm/s.
Closed loop fuel control enabled.
The PCM determines oxygen storage capability of the catalytic converter has degraded below a calibrated threshold.
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
The PCM illuminates the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) when the diagnostic runs and fails.
The PCM records the operating conditions at the time the diagnostic fails. The PCM stores this information in the Freeze Frame and/or Failure Records.
Conditions for Clearing the MIL/DTC
The PCM turns OFF the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) after 3 consecutive ignition cycles that the diagnostic runs and does not fail.
A last test failed, or current DTC, clears when the diagnostic runs and does not fail.
A history DTC clears after 40 consecutive warm-up cycles, if no failures are reported by this or any other emission related diagnostic.
Use a scan tool in order to clear the MIL and the DTC.
Test Description
The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.

Before replacing the Three Way Catalytic Converter, correct any conditions which may have damaged the catalyst.

Step
Action
Value(s)
Yes
No

1
Did you perform the Powertrain On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check?
--
Go to Step 2
Go to Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check

2
Are any other DTCs set?
--
Go to the applicable DTC table
Go to Step 3

3
Check for the following conditions:

Verify that the three-way catalytic converter is an original equipment part.
Inspect the three-way catalytic converter for damage (dents, severe discoloration caused by excessive temperature, holes, etc.).
Insure that the internal three-way catalytic converter rattle caused by damaged catalyst is not present.
Inspect the exhaust system for leaks, damage, or loose or missing hardware (area from converter to HO2S #2 primarily).
Insure that the HO2S #1 and the HO2S #2 are secure and that the pigtails and wiring are not damaged or contacting the exhaust.
Did you find and correct the condition?
--
Go to Step 5
Go to Step 4

4
Replace the catalytic converter.

Is the action complete?
--
Go to Step 5
--

5
Select the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) option and the Clear DTC Information option using the scan tool.
Idle the engine at the normal operating temperature.
Select the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) option and the Specific DTC option, then enter the DTC number using the scan tool.
Operate the vehicle within the Conditions for Setting the DTC as specified in the supporting text, if applicable.
Does the scan tool indicate that this test ran and passed?
--
Go to Step 6
Go to Step 2

6
Select the Capture Info option and the Review Info option using the scan tool.

Does the scan tool display any DTCs that you have not diagnosed?
--
Go to the applicable DTC table
System OK



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Document ID# 57849
1997 Chevrolet/Geo Corvette



Document ID# 74199
1997 Chevrolet/Geo Corvette


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

DTC P1431 Fuel Level Sensor 2 Performance



Circuit Description
The Fuel Level sensor 2, mounted in the rear side of the right fuel tank, measures fuel level changes within the right fuel tank. The Fuel Level sensor 2 has a 5.0 volt reference circuit, a ground, and a signal circuit.

When the fuel level is low the sensor output voltage is high. When the fuel level is high the sensor output voltage is low.

The PCM uses inputs from the Fuel Level sensor 1 and the Fuel Level sensor 2 in order to calculate the total fuel remaining in both fuel tanks. The system sends this information via the serial data to the BCM. This information displays on the fuel gauge.

This diagnostic checks for a stuck Fuel Level sensor 2 signal. If the PCM determines that the fuel level (right tank) signal appears to be stuck based on a lack of signal variation expected during normal operation, this DTC sets.

Conditions for Setting the DTC
The engine operating.
The PCM determines that the Fuel Level sensor 2 voltage is not consistent with the Fuel Level sensor 1 voltage for 40 minutes.
OR

The Fuel Level sensor voltage input to the PCM is unchanged.
The above condition present for greater than 40 minutes.
Action Taken When the DTC Sets
The powertrain control module (PCM) stores the DTC information into memory when the diagnostic runs and fails.
The malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) will not illuminate.
The PCM records the operating conditions at the time the diagnostic fails. The PCM stores this information in the Failure Records.
Conditions for Clearing the DTC
A last test failed, or current DTC, clears when the diagnostic runs and does not fail.
A history DTC will clear after 40 consecutive warm-up cycles, if no failures are reported by this or any other non-emission related diagnostic.
Use a scan tool in order to clear the DTC.
Diagnostic Aids
The following occurs with this DTC set:

The vehicle fuel gauge displays empty.
The Check Gauge lamp illuminates.
The Driver Information Center displays a message.
If the Fuel Level sensor is operating OK, check the operation of the Jet Pump.

Using the Freeze Frame and/or Failure Records data may aid in locating an intermittent condition. If you cannot duplicate the DTC, the information included in the Freeze Frame and/or Failure Records data can help determine how many miles since the DTC set. The Fail Counter and Pass Counter can also help determine how many ignition cycles the diagnostic reported a pass and/or a fail. Operate vehicle within the same freeze frame conditions (RPM, load, vehicle speed, temperature etc.) that you observed. This will isolate when the DTC failed. For an intermittent condition, refer to Symptoms .

Test Description
The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.

Use DTC P0461 table if DTCs P0461 and P1431 set.

This step determines if a circuit condition is causing the fuel level signal to be at a fixed value.

This step determines if a circuit condition is causing the fuel level signal to be at a fixed value.

This step determines if fuel is being delivered to the right fuel tank jet pump.

The fuel pump will run for 2 seconds each time it is commanded ON with the scan tool. The fuel pump must be enabled several times to achieve the time specified in the diagnostic table.

This step verifies that the left fuel level sender voltage is not above the specified value. If the left fuel level sender voltage is above the specified value, the left fuel tank will have to be drained.

Drain the left fuel tank until the left fuel sender voltage is within the specified range in order to keep fuel from leaking from the left fuel tank.

This step determines if fuel is being transferred to the left fuel tank.

The fuel pump runs for 2 seconds each time it is commanded ON with the scan tool. The fuel pump must be enabled several times to achieve the time specified in the diagnostic table.

Foreign material in the fuel tank may cause the sensor to stick. Inspect the strainer for interfering with the float arm. A stuck sensor may not be apparent when the sensor is removed from the fuel tank. The following may have caused the DTCs to set:

The fuel tanks over filled.
Fuel level that is almost empty and then re-fueled with only a couple gallons.
The Fuel Level sender un-stuck while re-fueling.
The Fuel Level sender un-stuck on rough road or going around a corner.
The PCM will not reset the mileage for this diagnostic if the fuel tanks are re-fueled to the same level as before the repair was made. Perform the following procedure in order to re-fuel the vehicle after replacing a sending unit or fuel tank.

Add 25 percent of the fuel that you removed before the repair.
Start and idle the engine for 5 minutes.
Turn OFF the engine.
Add the remainder of the fuel.
Step
Action
Values
Yes
No

1
Did you perform the Powertrain On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check?
--
Go to Step 2
Go to Powertrain On Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check

2
Is DTC P0461 also set?
--
Go to DTC P0461 Fuel Level Sensor Performance
Go to Step 3

3
Disconnect the right fuel level sensor electrical connector.
Jumper the right fuel level sensor signal circuit to the 5 volt reference circuit.
Monitor the right fuel level sensor voltage using a scan tool.
Is the voltage at the specified voltage?
5.0V
Go to Step 4
Go to Step 11

4
Leave the ignition ON.
Test the continuity of the right fuel level sensor return circuit between the right fuel level sensor harness connector and a good ground.
Does the DMM display a resistance below the specified value?
5 ohms
Go to Step 5
Go to Step 12

5

Caution
Gasoline or gasoline vapors are highly flammable. A fire could occur if an ignition source is present. Never drain or store gasoline or diesel fuel in an open container, due to the possibility of fire or explosion. Have a dry chemical (Class B) fire extinguisher nearby.


Monitor the fuel level in the left tank with a scan tool.

Important
If the left fuel tank is empty DO NOT add more than 15 liters (4 gallons) of fuel.


Add fuel if the left fuel tank is empty.
Disconnect the siphon jet pump feed pipe from the right fuel tank. Refer to Y car fuel system .
Insert the siphon jet pump fuel feed pipe into an approved gasoline container.
Command the fuel pump ON for the specified time with a scan tool.
Measure the volume of fuel.
Is the volume of fuel greater than the specified value?
10 seconds

300 ml (0.633 pt)
Go to Step 6
Go to Step 13

6
Observe the left fuel level sender voltage with a scan tool.

Is the left fuel level sender voltage above the specified value?
1.25V
Go to Step 7
Go to Step 8

7
Drain the left fuel tank until the left fuel sender voltage is within the specified range. Refer to Draining Fuel Tanks .

Did you complete the action?
1.0-1.25V
Go to Step 8
--

8

Important
Inspect the fuel crossover hose if the right fuel tank is empty. Fuel flow to the right fuel tank is decreased during fueling if the crossover hose is collapsed or restricted.


Connect the siphon jet pump fuel feed pipe to the right fuel tank.
Disconnect the siphon jet pump fuel return pipe from the left fuel tank. Refer to Y car fuel system .
Insert the siphon jet pump fuel return pipe into an approved gasoline container.
Command the fuel pump ON for the specified time with the scan tool.
Measure the volume of fuel.
Is the volume of fuel greater than the specified value?
8 seconds

332.6 ml (0.703 pt)
Go to Step 9
Go to Step 14

9
Remove the right tank fuel level sensor. Refer to Fuel Sender Assembly Replacement .
Inspect for the following:
A stuck Fuel Level sensor (i.e. the fuel strainer interfering with the sender float arm)
Fuel tank deformed
Foreign material in the fuel tank (ice)
Did you find and correct the condition?
--
Go to Step 18
Go to Step 10

10
Connect the DMM between the fuel level sensor signal circuit and the fuel level sensor ground circuit (sensor side).
Set the DMM to the 400ohms range.
Sweep the fuel level sensor from stop to stop.
Does the resistance vary between the specified values?
40ohms (±1ohms) to 250ohms (±2.4ohms)
Go to Diagnostic Aids
Go to Step 15

11
Disconnect the PCM. Refer to PCM/TAC Module Replacement .
Test the right tank fuel level signal circuit and 5 volt reference circuit for high resistance.
If you find a condition, repair the condition as necessary. Refer to Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
--
Go to Step 18
Go to Step 16

12
Disconnect the PCM. Refer to PCM/TAC Module Replacement .
Test the right tank fuel level return circuit for an open or for high resistance.
If you find a condition, repair the condition as necessary. Refer to Wiring Repairs in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
--
Go to Step 18
Go to Step 16

13
Inspect the siphon jet pump fuel feed pipe for restrictions and repair as necessary.

Is the action complete?
--
Go to Step 18
--

14
Inspect the siphon jet pump fuel return pipe for restrictions and repair as necessary.

Did you find and correct the condition?
--
Go to Step 18
Go to Step 15

15
Replace the right tank fuel level sensor. Refer to Fuel Sender Assembly Replacement .

Is the action complete?
--
Go to Step 18
--

16
Inspect for a poor connection at the PCM. Refer to Testing for Electrical Intermittents in Wiring Systems.
If you find a poor connection, repair as necessary. Refer to Repairing Connector Terminals in Wiring Systems.
Did you find and correct the condition?
--
Go to Step 18
Go to Step 17

17

Important
Program the replacement PCM.


Replace the PCM. Refer to PCM/TAC Module Replacement .

Is the action complete?
--
Go to Step 18
--

18
Select the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) option and the Clear Information option with the scan tool.
Start the engine and idle at the normal operating temperature.
Select the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) option and the Specific DTC option, then enter the DTC number with the scan tool.
Operate vehicle within the Conditions for Running this DTC as specified in the supporting text, if applicable.
Does the scan tool indicate that this test ran and passed?
--
Go to Step 19
Go to Step 2

19
Select the Capture Info option and the Review Info option with the scan tool.

Are any DTCs displayed that have not been diagnosed?
--
Go to Applicable DTC Table
System OK



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Document ID# 74199
1997 Chevrolet/Geo Corvette

 

Thanks Bill, I've been adding the Techron to the gas every couple of tanks, it has helped. I have the aftermarket Billy Boat Bullets I was told that was causing the bad sensor reading but I'll check the cats.

The QC Code comes up on its on and then it occasionally jumps to "configure options" and then to "Quick Configure. I'm thinking this code must have something to do with the memory of the options selected.

I'm going to reset all the options, seat, mirrors, alarm, etc and see if that helps.

I appreciate your assistance on this, thanks.
Rick

 

You either have a bad post CAT O2 sensor.. or a bad post cat. O2 sensors and see if the issue changes sides.


Swap the post cat. O2 sensors and see if the issue changes sides.

 

Thanks for the help, I reset all the options I mentioned in the earlier post as the code popped up as soon as I backed out of the garage and immediately went to configure options. So I went through each one and reset them. Went for a ride and the strange QC Code 413131 never came back.

Hopefully it doesn't in the future. If it does I will look for a wiring issue with the Options button on the DIC. I read somewhere that it occasionally had a grounding issue.

Thanks Bill for the info on the O2 Sensors I had thought that was my problem with that code and you confirmed it. Fixing that issue next week.