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Blinking check engine light 2004 SRX

33K views 562 replies 11 participants last post by  geocoy2  
#1 ·
geocoy2
Registered
2004 SRX AWD V8
Joined Sep 18, 2021
83 Posts
  • 01-12-2023
My car will not start. When I try to start the car it does nothing. No clicking or anything. Initially it had blinking Check Engine Light. This is an indication there is a serious problem. I had AZ test my battery and it is good, and I have a new starter, so the problem is somewhere in the system. So I borrowed a Code Scanner from AutoZone and I am trying to read failure codes. I used the information from the code scanner, I got a code P0346-00, and it was telling me the Cam Sensors may have a problem. Well, the Cam Sensors had cracked connectors from a previous repair. So I replaced the connectors and the sensors, and the failure code went away. I also replaced the MAP (its and intake Air sensor) because the connector was also damaged and was seriously corroded with oil.
The first three pictures are the initial Failure codes I was working with.
When I try to start the car now, it still does nothing, no clicking, just nothing. The blinking Check Engine light is gone. But the ignition won't allow me to remove the key. So I have to use a tool to remove the key. I ran a scan tool a second time I will post that information in the next Reply below.

Anyone have any ideas?
 

Attachments

#504 ·
Never give up guys. thought you might want to know how this played out.
I finally got the 2004 SRX back on the road again.
Last time I talked with you guys you were pushing wring diagrams on me. I don’t relate well to wiring diagrams, so I proceeded with ERROR codes.
The car was not starting so I developed a work around. I pulled the started relay and crossed the two points to start the car. It worked. The problem was it was running in LIMP mode. It was drivable, but it had no power and would not go over 40 mph. Getting it started and getting it running made me feel good, even if it wasn't perfect.
So next I focused on error codes. This is a list of all the error codes I was getting. One by one I replaced the related parts:
  • The Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor, 09 / 06 / 2023, Shipped, $609.77
  • Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor, 09 / 02 / 2023, Shipped, $95.00
  • Throttle Body, 05 / 19 / 2023, Shipped, $116.61
  • Manifold Pressure (MAP) Sensor Connector, Manifold Pressure (MAP) Sensor, 12 / 29 / 2022, Shipped, $57.53
  • Camshaft Position Sensor, 12 / 29 / 2022, Shipped, $61.60
  • Vehicle / Output Speed Sensor Connector, 12 / 21 / 2022, Shipped, $88.35
  • Ignition Starter Switch, 11 / 21 / 2022, Shipped, $69.32
  • Lift Support, 05 / 13 / 2022, Shipped, $26.83
  • Ignition Coil, 05 / 08 / 2022, Shipped, $195.57
  • Oxygen (O2) Sensor, Valve Cover Gasket, Oxygen (O2) Sensor Socket / Wrench, 04 / 21 / 2022, Shipped, $242.87
  • An ECM from Flagship1 $200.
  • When I installed the new ECM all the codes automatically disappeared.
With all these parts installed it cleared all the codes. Then a day or two later a new code popped up
Code P00011. The check Engine light was back on again.
What is the engine code p00011?
What causes the P0011 code? The most common cause of this code is a faulty timing chain or camshaft sensor. It can also be caused by an oil leak in the VVT system, or worn engine components such as spark plugs, valves, and gaskets. If the fault code is caused by worn engine components, they need to be replaced.
I Took the car to a local repair shop, and they declined to work on it saying to get to the source of the problem, the timing chain, could cost thousands of dollars. They didn't want to be responsible.
I took it to the dealer for a second opinion. The dealer didn't want to touch it because it was no longer a Cadillac. I had made so many wiring repairs the dealer could not trust my work. He asked if he could keep the car over the weekend and drive it to see if he could get the Check Engine light to respond. The dealer advised me that it was unlikely the timing chain. He said the timing chain on the NorthStar is almost bullet proof. He advised me to recheck the wring. I was stumped.

The dealer called me and recommended a wiring specialist. The wiring specialist came to my house and together we looked at what I had done. He was impressed and baffled. He had the same problem; he didn't know if he could trust my work. Turns out, he was not really a specialist. He was in the business of repairing cars that were in accidents and needed new wiring, replaced. He was not good at diagnostics. But in the process of showing him what I had done I noticed that wiggling one of the wires on the camshaft position sensor caused the Check Engine light to go out.
After he left, I performed the same test and bingo the Check Engine light was out. The wire was grounding to the engine block.
I've been driving it for two weeks now, with no issues.
 
#561 ·
Never give up guys. thought you might want to know how this played out.
I finally got the 2004 SRX back on the road again.
Last time I talked with you guys you were pushing wring diagrams on me. I don’t relate well to wiring diagrams, so I proceeded with ERROR codes.
The car was not starting so I developed a work around. I pulled the started relay and crossed the two points to start the car. It worked. The problem was it was running in LIMP mode. It was drivable, but it had no power and would not go over 40 mph. Getting it started and getting it running made me feel good, even if it wasn't perfect.
So next I focused on error codes. This is a list of all the error codes I was getting. One by one I replaced the related parts:
  • The Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor, 09 / 06 / 2023, Shipped, $609.77
  • Accelerator Pedal Position Sensor, 09 / 02 / 2023, Shipped, $95.00
  • Throttle Body, 05 / 19 / 2023, Shipped, $116.61
  • Manifold Pressure (MAP) Sensor Connector, Manifold Pressure (MAP) Sensor, 12 / 29 / 2022, Shipped, $57.53
  • Camshaft Position Sensor, 12 / 29 / 2022, Shipped, $61.60
  • Vehicle / Output Speed Sensor Connector, 12 / 21 / 2022, Shipped, $88.35
  • Ignition Starter Switch, 11 / 21 / 2022, Shipped, $69.32
  • Lift Support, 05 / 13 / 2022, Shipped, $26.83
  • Ignition Coil, 05 / 08 / 2022, Shipped, $195.57
  • Oxygen (O2) Sensor, Valve Cover Gasket, Oxygen (O2) Sensor Socket / Wrench, 04 / 21 / 2022, Shipped, $242.87
  • An ECM from Flagship1 $200.
  • When I installed the new ECM all the codes automatically disappeared.
With all these parts installed it cleared all the codes. Then a day or two later a new code popped up
Code P00011. The check Engine light was back on again.
What is the engine code p00011?
What causes the P0011 code? The most common cause of this code is a faulty timing chain or camshaft sensor. It can also be caused by an oil leak in the VVT system, or worn engine components such as spark plugs, valves, and gaskets. If the fault code is caused by worn engine components, they need to be replaced.
I Took the car to a local repair shop, and they declined to work on it saying to get to the source of the problem, the timing chain, could cost thousands of dollars. They didn't want to be responsible.
I took it to the dealer for a second opinion. The dealer didn't want to touch it because it was no longer a Cadillac. I had made so many wiring repairs the dealer could not trust my work. He asked if he could keep the car over the weekend and drive it to see if he could get the Check Engine light to respond. The dealer advised me that it was unlikely the timing chain. He said the timing chain on the NorthStar is almost bullet proof. He advised me to recheck the wring. I was stumped.

The dealer called me and recommended a wiring specialist. The wiring specialist came to my house and together we looked at what I had done. He was impressed and baffled. He had the same problem; he didn't know if he could trust my work. Turns out, he was not really a specialist. He was in the business of repairing cars that were in accidents and needed new wiring, replaced. He was not good at diagnostics. But in the process of showing him what I had done I noticed that wiggling one of the wires on the camshaft position sensor caused the Check Engine light to go out.
After he left, I performed the same test and bingo the Check Engine light was out. The wire was grounding to the engine block.
I've been driving it for two weeks now, with no issues.
Well a lot of thigs have happened since I talked to you guys last.
Specialist were pointing to the timing chai as the root of the problem. They were close but "No Cigar". The plug that connects to the timing chain mechanism was a source of the problem. No one including the dealer wanted to touch it. I LUCKED OUT. I discovered the plug was erroring out because it wasn't getting oil. I drilled holes in the base of the connecter to prove it was not leaking oil. Dealer told me to check the oil every time the error code appeared. I started doing that regularly. Turns out when the engine was a quart low on oil the light would come on. Even I knew the fix for that.
As of today, all lights are out, and my car passed emissions inspection this last week. I have a license plate good for two years. I'm driving it folks. The dealer discovered a parasitic draw, which I could not explain, but it turns out the draw is so low its unlikely it will ever drain the battery if I drive it on a daily basis.
You didn't hear form me over the past months because I had knee replacement surgery which got infected, and I am still in rehab learning to walk again.
You guys stuck with me for so long I felt I needed to explain.
 
#511 · (Edited)
Team ZR-1 I went to their website to search for the Connector and pigtail I was looking for. I found some that look to be a close fit, but they have no "Search" tool, so it looks like it's a guessing game to find the connector I want. Is that the way it works?
This is very close to what I'm looking for, but I only need two wires.
Image

This is the part that it plugs into
More Information for GATES VVS378 (rockauto.com)
Image
 
#515 ·
what leads you to that conclusion, did you extract codes? or you just don't like the looks of that connection
if that is the vvt solenoid which it looks like it is, they are the listed connectors
Image


if the problem is the wiring fix the wire hacks. that connector you show in the pic doesn't look like it should be a problem unless it's been improperly probed but the wire in pic 2 looks to be taped/spliced already?
solder the connections and use heat shrink tubing to seal them
 
#516 ·
Very cool 1997_eldorado. I did what you did and found it. Turns out its a 2005 SRX V8
2005 CADILLAC SRX 4.6L V8 Variable Valve Timing (VVT) Solenoid Connector | RockAuto
Mine is a 2004 SRX, but im willing to bet it will fit.
Image


It's not soldered or taped; the connector is broken. I think I may have probed it with a paper clip an accidently spreading the prongs too far apart. So it has a loose fit. Thats all that's wrong.
 
#518 ·
I would not suggest using those butt splices as that sensor either puts out a signal or low voltage
and butt splice might not do a good solid connection over time and could allow picking up EMI or RFI signals
Also, the wire loom wires maybe smaller gage and that butt splice could be for larger gage so not good crimp

Do a unit splice, solder and shrink tube and then some electrical tape around both for good seal
If having any electronic or MAF spray cleaner might as well clean the pins on the sensor
 
#521 ·
Interesting development Team ZR-1 and 1997_Eldorado. On the coldest day of the year my battery went Dead, I mean deader than a doornail. I couldn't unlock the doors. Had to use the key to get inside. I charged it up and took it to AutoZone and did a battery test on it. Battery was okay, charging was okay and starter tested okay. So I tried doing a parasitic test on it to see if I had a parasitic drain on the battery. Turns out I had a 6 amp parasitic draw on the battery, not enough to kill it on a day to day driving basis but enough to kill the battery after a few days of setting. Traced the problem to a fuse labeled "Instrument Panel and Outlet". I assumed it was the Radio and Disc player. I was having problems with the disc player before. You cannot store discs in it, it can't settle itself on shut down. So I play discs in it and remove them at shut down. So out of curiosity I pulled the fuse and started the car. To my amazement the Instrument panel is fine, I was so surprised I forgot to test the radio, it was bitterly cold in my garage. So my question is: What the heck is that fuse supposed to be for?
 

Attachments

#523 ·
Owners manual states

Accessory Power Outlets

Your vehicle is equipped with accessory power outlets.
The outlets can be used to plug in electrical equipment such as a cellular telephone, CB radio, etc.
Your vehicle has one outlet in front of the center console, one in the rear of the center console, one in
the rear compartment, and there may be an additional outlet in the rear of the center console.
Your vehicle may have a small cap that must be removed to access the accessory power outlet. If it
does, when not using the outlet, be sure to cover it with the protective cap.

The accessory power outlet will only operate when the ignition is in ACCESSORY or ON and for 10 minutes
after turning the ignition to OFF.

If you would like the accessory power outlet to operate regardless of ignition position, and for extended periods of time, you can do the following:

1. Open the hood and locate the underhood fuse block.
2. Find the I/P OUTLET and OUTLET fuses and move them over a space, to the open cavity next to each fuse.

Notice: Leaving electrical equipment on for extended periods will drain the battery. Always turn off electrical equipment when not in use, and do not plug in equipment that exceeds the maximum amperage rating.

Certain accessory power plugs may not be compatible to the accessory power outlet and could result in
blown vehicle or adapter fuses. If you experience a problem, see your dealer for additional information on the
accessory power outlets.
Notice: Adding any electrical equipment to your vehicle may damage it or keep other components
from working as they should. The repairs would not be covered by your warranty. Check with your
dealer before adding electrical equipment.
Follow the proper installation instructions that are included with any electrical equipment you install.
Notice: Improper use of the power outlet can cause damage not covered by your warranty.
Do not
hang any type of accessory or accessory bracket from the plug because the power outlets are
designed for accessory power plugs only.

1 of the OUTLET Center Console Accessory Power Outlet

But you want I/P OUTLET Instrument Panel Accessory Power Outlet

I assume there is one on the dash to plug devices in like a cellphone, etc
 
#524 ·
I believe you are absolutely correct Team ZR-1, I was assuming the same thing, but I was looking for a second opinion. Problem is I don't use any of those cigarette lighter outlets. We used to use the to charge the phones, but not recently. Removing the fuse will not harm anything then. But what could have caused them to drain the battery when nothing is being used.
BTW I checked the radio and disc player this morning, they all still work. That I/P outlet fuse accounted for 4 amps of parasitic drain. There is still something draining the battery, I'll continue to check.
I just noticed this information about outlets, this makes it even more puzzling. There are apparently two fuses that control outlets in the same box???
What's that all about.
 

Attachments

#525 ·
If you reread what I posted, it says

If you would like the accessory power outlet to operate regardless of ignition position, and for extended periods of time, you can do the following:


1. Open the hood and locate the underhood fuse block.
2. Find the I/P OUTLET and OUTLET fuses and move them over a space, to the open cavity next to each fuse.

So this says with the fuse in than something controls how long those outlets are hot
Such as GM has it, so engine can be turned off but for like 10 minutes if a door is not opened it allows like radio, outlets, windows, etc to stay on, like your parked but inside car waiting for someone and can use electronics for that time period or door opens

So it maybe a stuck relay for this or a controller that controls that ON time and is drawing the voltage/current

You could try by pulling both outlet fuses and test for any drain or

You need to post from service manual the schematic of the wiring for the I/P outlet to where every the wires go to so we can see if it is some relay or controller for time power saver is commanded ON and OFF