92 GA stranded me again??

I have a 92 Grand Am SE with a 3.3 V6 and this is what happens. When I first start it the idle is fine but before it goes into closed loop the idle will jump up and down or will even die. During that time the doors will automatically lock. Now this is the second time it has done it (doors locked automatically) and left me stranded and will not happen a 3rd but why is it doing this?? I have replaced, computer,TPS,IAC, O2 sensor, VSS and NSS. I need help! Took it to the shop the first time and they told me the plugs were loose and I don't buy that one but other than that they couldn't find anything wrong.:banghead::banghead::banghead:

Replace or adjust the PRNDL switch. I would replace it since vehicle is very old and it is possible that the contacts inside are worn out. The one on the top of the transmission below your power buster. What happens is pcm does not know if transmission is in park or drive and does not know how to adjust idle for it, that explains why you got locked so car was in P engine running and when you closed the door pcm received signal that the transmission is in D when it was in P. If you had a good scanner this would be easy to check. I see that you like to work on cars, so it is time to invest into better scanner that can read live engine data, ipc, abs, trans and body codes. With mine I can even shift gears.

I just realized that you replaced NSS neutral safety switch, I can bet that this problem started after you replaced nss, it is not adjusted or it is bad.

Replace or adjust the PRNDL switch. I would replace it since vehicle is very old and it is possible that the contacts inside are worn out. The one on the top of the transmission below your power buster. What happens is pcm does not know if transmission is in park or drive and does not know how to adjust idle for it, that explains why you got locked so car was in P engine running and when you closed the door pcm received signal that the transmission is in D when it was in P. If you had a good scanner this would be easy to check. I see that you like to work on cars, so it is time to invest into better scanner that can read live engine data, ipc, abs, trans and body codes. With mine I can even shift gears.

I just realized that you replaced NSS neutral safety switch, I can bet that this problem started after you replaced nss, it is not adjusted or it is bad.
I don't know if the problem started after I replaced it because I was not driving it yet. I had a code for the NSS so I replaced it.

3100 - Can you name names i.e. recommend a few models of scanners? and approx cost? I've been pressed into service maintaining 4 aging cars now, and I'm getting to accept that I could use my own scanner, not just borrow one from the 'Zone. And Christmas is coming.....

3100 - Can you name names i.e. recommend a few models of scanners? and approx cost? I've been pressed into service maintaining 4 aging cars now, and I'm getting to accept that I could use my own scanner, not just borrow one from the 'Zone. And Christmas is coming.....


I have one like this I paid it bit cheaper but trust me it is money well spent.

Color screen, it even has fast fixes data base, bulletins, color coded electrical diagrams, you can even use it as a scope with appropriate software and do GM SPS programing. http://www.google.com/products/catalog?hl=en&q=otc+genisys+2.0&cid=7635687454265904067&sa=image#p

abs, ipc, pcm, airbag, trans codes no problem with this one, also you can do ckp relarn, you can disable individual injectors, comand fans on, test ipc bulbs, and much much more

Under your shifter is prndl control module get it from junk yard this can cause problems that you described also.

I have one like this I paid it bit cheaper but trust me it is money well spent.

Color screen, it even has fast fixes data base, bulletins, color coded electrical diagrams, you can even use it as a scope with appropriate software and do GM SPS programing. http://www.google.com/products/catalog?hl=en&q=otc+genisys+2.0&cid=7635687454265904067&sa=image#p

abs, ipc, pcm, airbag, trans codes no problem with this one, also you can do ckp relarn, you can disable individual injectors, comand fans on, test ipc bulbs, and much much more
very nice indeed but ouch..... I only spent $500 for mine but does only half of what your does.

One of my friends has explorer 4.0 1995 and one day he called me to connect it to my scanner to see why his engine is shutting off at lights. pcm did not give any codes, all he could tell me was that he hears uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu sound before the engine dies, this problem was intermittent so I was never able to duplicate it. But believe it or not this scanner has fast fix data base for each type of the vehicle with the most common problems explaining each symptom and providing solutions for each. I was able to find his symptom describing humming sound under the hood and was instructed to replace iac valve. Problem was fixed and within 20 min and 150$ + for my pocket - did not want to take money from my friend but he insisted.

Holy crap, I'm gonna have to save some money...

3100 - One of the 4 cars i'm working with is a 2004 Volvo S60 2.4 non-turbo. Apparently Volvo has their VADIS system, which you have to pay big bucks to log on to. Currently the air-bag (SRS) warning light is on since I failed to disconnect the battery before fixing the turn-signal switch. Dealer and other shops want minimum $200.00 to turn this light off. I know this isn't a volvo thread... but the volvo thread here rots. Does your Genisys handle '04 Volvo S60's? including airbag and transmission systems? Apparently the volvos have 30-to-40 separate computers in them. I found a "PPC Diagnostic System" from a co. called BSR for $200.00, which I will buy in a heartbeat if I can find it. It will read&clear all codes in the S60's. It's apparently hard to find availability. If OTC/Genisys will handle '04 S60's I'll seriously consider upping my ante.... Thanks in advance

3100 - One of the 4 cars i'm working with is a 2004 Volvo S60 2.4 non-turbo. Apparently Volvo has their VADIS system, which you have to pay big bucks to log on to. Currently the air-bag (SRS) warning light is on since I failed to disconnect the battery before fixing the turn-signal switch. Dealer and other shops want minimum $200.00 to turn this light off. I know this isn't a volvo thread... but the volvo thread here rots. Does your Genisys handle '04 Volvo S60's? including airbag and transmission systems? Apparently the volvos have 30-to-40 separate computers in them. I found a "PPC Diagnostic System" from a co. called BSR for $200.00, which I will buy in a heartbeat if I can find it. It will read&clear all codes in the S60's. It's apparently hard to find availability. If OTC/Genisys will handle '04 S60's I'll seriously consider upping my ante.... Thanks in advance


Currently I only have domestic and asian software installed since I don't get many chances to work on European cars. And yes if you buy European software and connectors it will work. Google that scanner to find more options and accessories for it. You can even install software for heavy duty diesel vehicles. Also if your volvo has standard obd2 connector this scanner can be used to read standard data read codes, erase codes,acess some generic engine data values etc even if you don't have European software installed.

Well ordered a new module today for $60, will get in a couple of days so cross my fingers...