Auto Repair Articles

1996 Oldsmobile Achieva, SL, with 101,000 miles on it. I changed out the Instrument Panel because the odometer was not working. Now it seems the computer will not accept the new instrument panel. I think that it needs to have the computer reset or reprogrammed, because the car will run for approximately 10 seconds, then shut off and there doesn’t seem anything else wrong. Please explain how to reset the computer or tell me where I can find out how to reset the computer.

Answer:

When replacing the instrument panel on this model you must perform a relearn to the theft system after the repair has been made. Here is what I would recommend that you try.

Time required, approximately 10 minutes.

1. Insure that the battery is fully charged.
2. Use the scan tool in order to clear the DTCs.
3. Turn the ignition switch from the OFF position to the CRANK position attempting to start the vehicle. The vehicle will start and then stall.
4. Leave the ignition switch in the ON position while observing the security indicator.
5. When the security indicator turns off, which can take up to 10 minutes, turn the ignition switch off. Wait 10 seconds.
6. Turn ignition to start, at this point the vehicle should start and run.

Question:

I have a unit to test a/c refrigerant level/pressure and if it needs more or needs other repairs. I need to locate the low side port of the a/c on a 3.5 liter 1999 Oldsmobile Intrigue engine to attach the unit. Can you tell me where it is?  Already Tried: Looked under the hood and was not sure if I located it or not. I think it is on the right side of the engine as you look at it in front of the brake lines and a bit lower.

Answer;

The low side fitting is on the accumulator on the right side of the engine compartment(driver side). You should be able to trace the large line at the compressor back to the accumulator assembly.

Air Conditioning Troubleshooting

If you smell gas don’t hesitate as it may catch fire. This is a safety issue and has been recalled for repair for the 2004 Olds Alero.

Recall Date

MAR 12, 2007

Model Affected

2004 OLDSMOBILE ALERO

Description

CERTAIN DELPHI FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS, P/NOS. FP10020-11B1, FP10026-11B1, AND FP10027-11B1, SOLD AFTER JANUARY 9, 2007, AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE UNIVERSAL PRESSURE REGULATORS (UPR) WERE PRODUCED WITHOUT AN O’RING AND RETAINER.

Consequence

FUEL MAY LEAK, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.

Remedy

DELPHI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE UPR FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING MARCH 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT DELPHI AT 877-411-8770.

Potential Units Affected

742

Notes

DELPHI