2000 Catera with many problems!

[caddydaddy]

I'm trying to help a friend that has a 2000 Catera with a few problems. The car has had many electrical modules problems .

First set of problems that have already been fixed
Stereo System not working (no power to system)
Gas Door will only open when car in drive, not park
Trunk will only open when in drive not park
(Resolution was new module)

2nd set of problems not fixed
All of these dummy lights are on
1.Anti Lock Brakes (and when this goes on speedometer stops working)
2.Air Bag Warning light is on
3.Traction Control Warning light is on
4.Check engine Light is on
5. Seems at times head lights not working properly, shorting out on drivers side

Transmission seems at times to run rough.

Is it fairly easy to check for computer codes on the Cateras? I've never worked on one of these cars.

Thanks!

[Marks DTM Calib]

First off....measure the battery volateg with the engine revving at 3000rpm....

Many ECU lights often points to an over volting alternator.....so rule out the obvious first....

[caddydaddy]

Thanks! I'll have them check that out. What should the voltage be, around 13-15 volts?

[Marks DTM Calib]

It should peek at about 14.4V (these use a Calcium battery which requires a slightly higher charge voltage), any more and the ECU's will go into limp mode and report a high voltage code....

[Searayjba]

Re: items 1,3,&4 - Probably a bad ETBCM, or connector. The speed signal comes from the Vehicle Speed Sensor located on the transmission, and feeds thru the ETBCM to the speedo, traction control system and ABS. The ETBCM has been a problem on the Cat, at least according to multiple forums. If it is bad the speed signal doesn't make it to the other systems so you get the error lights. Also, your cruise control probably doesn't work; no speed signal.
The ETBCM can be rebuilt, check eBay for 2 companies who do this for about $200. Much cheaper than new (about $750, also eBay).
Hope this helps.

[Marks DTM Calib]

Originally Posted by Searayjba

Re: items 1,3,&4 - Probably a bad ETBCM, or connector. The speed signal comes from the Vehicle Speed Sensor located on the transmission, and feeds thru the ETBCM to the speedo, traction control system and ABS.

This is NOT the case.....the speed signal is derived from the rear ABS sensors.....the transmission speed sensor is used by the transmission only!