PCM/Fuel Pressure Regulator - Hard Starting
January 15, 200101-001
Applies To:
2001 3.2CL - From VIN 19UYA4...1A000001 thru 19UYA4...1A012396
2000 3.2TL - From VIN 19UUA5...YAOOOOO1 thru 19UUA5...YA052284
Hard Start After "Hot Soak"
SYMPTOM
Excessive cranking is needed to start the engine after the vehicle is driven and then parked (with the engine off) for about 15 to 20 minutes. The engine stalls a few times before it begins to run smoothly, and the MIL may come on with a misfire DTC.
PROBABLE CAUSE
In certain areas of the U.S., where the winter months are usually very cold, oil companies sell fuel that is specifically formulated for improved cold weather driveability. If the winter months are unseasonably warm in these areas, the lower boiling point of this fuel causes the fuel in the lines to vaporize, resulting in a hard start or a misfire at start-up.
NOTE:
This problem affects vehicles in Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maryland, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Washington. If you are not located in one of these states, contact your DPSM before doing the corrective action.
CORRECTIVE ACTION
Replace the fuel pressure regulator and the PCM.
PARTS INFORMATION
Fuel Pressure Regulator Kit: '00 3.2TL, '01 3.2CL (KA)
P/N 06161-P8E-A00
Fuel Pressure Regulator Kit: '00 3.2TL, '01 3.2CL, (KL)
P/N 06161-P8E-L00
Fuel Pressure Regulator Kit: '01 3.2CL Type S (50-state)
P/N 06161-PGE-A00
Each kit contains an updated fuel pressure regulator and an updated PCM. The updated regulator is marked with a black dot. The updated regulator only works properly with the updated PCM and vice versa.
WARRANTY CLAIM INFORMATION
In warranty:
The normal warranty applies.
Out of warranty:
Any repair performed after warranty expiration may be eligible for goodwill consideration by the District Parts and Service Manager or your Zone Office. You must request consideration, and get a decision, before starting work.
REPAIR PROCEDURE
1. Use the PGM Tester to download the immobilizer key transponder codes from the PCM. Refer to S/B00-019, Immobilizer System (Type 2), filed under Body Electrical.
2. Make sure you have the anti-theft code for the radio and for the navigation system, if needed. Write down your customer's radio station presets.
3. Disconnect the negative cable from the battery.
4. Remove the fuel fill cap.
5. Place a wrench on the fuel pulsation damper, and cover the damper with a shop towel.
6. Slowly turn the wrench counterclockwise one complete turn to loosen the damper and relieve fuel pressure. Tighten the damper to 22 Nm (16 lb-ft).
7. Disconnect the vacuum hose and the fuel return hose from the fuel pressure regulator.
8. Loosen the fuel pressure regulator locknut, then remove and discard the regulator.
9. Apply clean engine oil to the new 0-ring, and carefully push it onto the new regulator from the kit.
10. Install the new regulator. Turn it in by hand until the locknut seats.
11. Turn the regulator counterclockwise, and position it as shown.
12. Tighten the locknut to 29 Nm (22 lb-ft), then connect the vacuum hose and the fuel return hose to the regulator.
13. Remove and discard the PCM.
14. Install the new PCM from the kit, and torque the bolts to 12 Nm (8.7 lb-ft).
15. Plug the connectors into the new PCM.
16. Reinstall the fuel fill cap.
17. Reconnect the negative battery cable.
18. Enter the anti-theft code for the radio and for the navigation system, if needed; then enter your customer's radio station presets. Set the clock.
19. Use the PGM Tester to upload the immobilizer key transponder codes to the new PCM. Refer to S/B00-019, Immobilizer System (Type 2), filed under Body Electrical.
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