This is the code reader that I like and have been using most lately for quick basic code retrieval. www.amazon.com/... 2003 Chevy Astrovan Code P0449 and P0455
Great job at tracing down the broken wire. You make it sound so easy but I am sure that is only because you are a professional. You are masterful at explaining the logic you use to diagnose problems and coming up with appropriate solutions. Thanks
I used to maintain a fleet of older trucks for a cotton gin that bounced in and out of fields all day. Wiring looms and any kind of hose that was touching anything were soon to fail. To prevent the inevitable, we used radiator and heater hose pieces to slit and place around the trouble spots. We zip tied or taped them and it worked great. Don't know if you've ever tried it, but it's a great fix for an older vehicle like the van you're working on. Thanks for another good video.
PS - Thanks for spending the time to post these videos, I think I speak for a lot of folks when I say I appreciate your willingness to share of your knowledge and experience.
Brian - thanks for the video - i especially like how you tested the wire with the metal pin. I never would have thought to do that. I've had to trace wires before and it's always a nightmare - but with this tip it might make it a little easier. Again - thanks for the effort that you put into doing this.
I remember a broken wire nearly killing my 2003 mercury marauder. It was the signal wire running from the PCM to the cooling fan that had apparently been repaired once, but whoever did the repair used a stupid steel crimp instead of soldering and shrink tubing the wire, and the result was my cooling fan was not kicking on and my engine nearly overheated. But since then, the wire has been repaired the correct way and I haven't had a problem. :)
great video, I have the same problem but slightly different. I had no voltage on the orange wire but it was because the white wire was open. I checked the doghouse area you showed and it was actually A ok no rot on the split loom and it seems it was routed slightly differrent and not rubbing on anything there... however as I followed it across to the other side of the dog house and just down out of view the harness and loom were right next to the exhaust manifold and everything there was rotted. My white wire was open there so hence the reason I didn't get any voltage at the plug for the Evap relay. So it can be either wire. I did try measuring the orange wire to chassis ground and you will get the 14 or so volts , this is how I figured out the other wire in the plug was open because it should also be essentially a ground wire when the vehicle is turned on.
Great job with the power probe. I've been using a wire tracker to find wire breaks. Amazon has a PP3 for a little over one hundred with free shipping. That is my next tool purchase. I wish you well with new subscribers and hope you make more money so you can raise the roof on your shop.
excellent video... I have an 03 Astro that is throwing codes p0446, p0452, p0455... Your video has given me a much better idea what to look for and chase... Thank you.
I think I just figured out that I am the 1% that has a busted wire and not a bad solenoid. I have the P0449 and replaced the vent and purge solenoid on 03 Silverado(was a booger to get out but did it without lifting bed). Once out I tested plug for power, before watching this that is... it didn't have 12V. So, I assumed it received it when it needed it from PCM. But it seems it receives the ground when it needs it, so I should have 12V at the plug constant. Went ahead and put new solenoid in. Still has code. Found your video on testing the 03 Chevy with good Vent where you discover the fuse contact was not good. I tried that, pulling the fuse a few times, still 449. Then found this Video... and I think this is where I am. After rain, I will see if I can back trace the wire and find a break in it. Thanks for these. Question... Would this code make the truck go into a "Reduced Engine Power" message on the display/odometer board in the dash? 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LS 5.3L ext cab short bed.
It's got a short to ground somewhere or a drain to ground. I would check for a Power antenna wire (blue) for an aftermarket radio or something if you have one. Otherwise check out the wire harness' in the steering column.
I have a question on a 2004 Safari van, l had a chech engine light in and went to Auto Zone and had it diagnosed, it said fuel pressure sensor not working, so l had mt lical mechanic put in the fule sensor at the engine, still had a light on, so he advised to put in a new fuel pump and replace the fuel sensor at the top of the tank, eell it worked fir about a week and light came back on, l went to Auto Zone again and was still saying pressure sensor, so what do l do next to get the light off?
How do you know where the roots of a tree are? You follow what you can see to where you know where they should be. : ) Start at the gas tank (obvious to find) and follow lines away from there. Having replaced fuel pumps I'd seen the lines in order to separate them from the tank.
That's an input code. I would bank on wire shorting between the sensor and the computer. You're van thinks it's -40 F so it will run really rich like the air is thick even though it's not.
There's a tool you can buy that holds the crank pulley on then you can slide in a breaker bar and pull like mad. You gotta be super strong to break loose a Honda crank bolt by hand though.
I am disabled as you know my 91 camry was hit behind and now the bumper is in the back seat ! Me and wife were flown to west chester hospital . we were cut out from the car . It had no airbags but the car that hit us was a 2007 jeep cherakee . I did not have collision due to my insurance said my car was a classic!! His insurance only gave me 1k for my camry with only 100k miles and it was in great condition . Now we are suing the crap out of him , Is a Scion XA a good car? we bought one.
Man you make this stuff look easy! I really need a road trip to your place for some repairs. Ever hear of the break ABS combo light coming on after start up?
What did you find out on the misfire situation? I have a 93 and 94 Astro(s) and the wiring and loom on both are in great shape. GM must have bought crappier than normal stuff from overseas in the 10 year time difference. However, my vans are 4.3 Z engines, and I've had a strong gas smell on the 93 for a few weeks. Upon closer looking, I found the vapor canister (by the battery) split open on the top and wreaking of gas fumes. I immediately got another at Pick N Pull and no more smell.
That's the nice thing about local business' they can custom make it onto your van like this one was. Just don't make it so tall. It's a huge pain for your mechanic.
Hi there! I have a 2001 Chevy Astro Van Rear Wheel Drive I kept getting a diagnostic reading-O2 Sensor. I exchanged and put in a new O2 sensor and that did not resolve the issue. Somehow I removed one of the (2) wires on the O2 sensor and now I am getting a check engine light which I did not previously have. Qts. What is the best way to replace the wiring for O2 sensor connector? Thank you, Lynn Denver Co.
What size guage are the wires in the harness uptop above the steering column. My pink with black stripe and tan with white stripe are both burned do you know what they are for? I
Hey brian ,Great video man i wish i knew you, and you were close to where we live . my problem is driving me and my mechanic crazy!!! ugh ! anyway i have a question. my 2001 astro cranks after setting 2 days wont turn over, i changed fuel pump, alternator, battery, wire from pump up, relays, checked fuses, distributor cap, rotor button, plugs, wires, tested solenoid, checked for broken wires, no codes runs great when running, could it be a crank sensor ????? or a cam sensor getting good fuel pressure, Im worn bro please give me your 2 cents Thanks Randy 513 two 90 37 nine 3
R Lovins WOW that is so frustrating that you checked EVERYTHING and still a no start I hope you finally found the problem and maybe reply back about how you fixed it?
Okay, looks like I might have same issue. Any advice about the wire cover? Mine crumbles away every time I touch it. Is there a way to re-wrap it with a new heat wrap or to difficult?
After 2002 they were in some real financial trouble and began cutting costs. This van DOES HAVE 240K miles though to their credit. (I'm not a Chevy fan boy, but not a hater either)
Hey Brian... Im having somewhat of a same issue. security light , low fuel, battery , and security light come on after a few mins of running after start up. had it at a shop. they cant find the issue. do you think this could be a similar issue??? broken wires, short.?? I know the wires go around the doghouse and topside like in your video. Im hoping this is the issue I want to try and fix it myself if at all possible
How can I get off my timing belt off a 95 Honda accord with out a torch or an air ratchet cause the damn bolt wont come off and I'm to broke for a shop or air tools and torch
I'll give it credit for lasting that long, but it's a 2003 which is still unacceptable. Knowing how bad things can be, makes me appreciate my 14 year old Lexus ES even more. It's practically brand new with 190k on the clock, compared to this vehicle. To be fair though, Toyota was in a much better state back then, so they could afford to pay closer attention to their premium vehicles.
instead of actually finding the wire break i would have just ran a new wire from up front to the back of the engine and left the old wire in place. I also probably would have said the vent valve was bad as soon as i saw those codes but as we see its not good to jump to conclusions based on past experiences.
I had the same issue with the vent circuit on a 02 Sonoma 4.3l. My issue was also the wire loom was rotted and worn except my broken wire was chafed because of rubbing on the gas tank and frame rail. I simply ran a new wire and taped the plastic loom up real well. What was up with the misfire?
Great job at tracing down the broken wire. You make it sound so easy but I am sure that is only because you are a professional. You are masterful at explaining the logic you use to diagnose problems and coming up with appropriate solutions. Thanks
I used to maintain a fleet of older trucks for a cotton gin that bounced in and out of fields all day. Wiring looms and any kind of hose that was touching anything were soon to fail. To prevent the inevitable, we used radiator and heater hose pieces to slit and place around the trouble spots. We zip tied or taped them and it worked great. Don't know if you've ever tried it, but it's a great fix for an older vehicle like the van you're working on. Thanks for another good video.
PS - Thanks for spending the time to post these videos, I think I speak for a lot of folks when I say I appreciate your willingness to share of your knowledge and experience.
Brian - thanks for the video - i especially like how you tested the wire with the metal pin. I never would have thought to do that. I've had to trace wires before and it's always a nightmare - but with this tip it might make it a little easier. Again - thanks for the effort that you put into doing this.
Great video Brian. Thanks for giving me a new approach to some of my electrical issues with my 98 Astro van. Thumbs up!
GREAT QUESTION!!!! The dissimilar metals corroded through gradually. The copper wire break was all green.
I remember a broken wire nearly killing my 2003 mercury marauder. It was the signal wire running from the PCM to the cooling fan that had apparently been repaired once, but whoever did the repair used a stupid steel crimp instead of soldering and shrink tubing the wire, and the result was my cooling fan was not kicking on and my engine nearly overheated. But since then, the wire has been repaired the correct way and I haven't had a problem. :)
Good advice. I don't know if it was in frame, but that's EXACTLY what I did on the harness under the dog house.
You're welcome- great to hear from you!
great video, I have the same problem but slightly different. I had no voltage on the orange wire but it was because the white wire was open. I checked the doghouse area you showed and it was actually A ok no rot on the split loom and it seems it was routed slightly differrent and not rubbing on anything there... however as I followed it across to the other side of the dog house and just down out of view the harness and loom were right next to the exhaust manifold and everything there was rotted. My white wire was open there so hence the reason I didn't get any voltage at the plug for the Evap relay. So it can be either wire. I did try measuring the orange wire to chassis ground and you will get the 14 or so volts , this is how I figured out the other wire in the plug was open because it should also be essentially a ground wire when the vehicle is turned on.
You could also add foam insulation tubing to the a/c receiver line to cushion the wire harness
Great job with the power probe. I've been using a wire tracker to find wire breaks. Amazon has a PP3 for a little over one hundred with free shipping. That is my next tool purchase. I wish you well with new subscribers and hope you make more money so you can raise the roof on your shop.
I just found this video ...and always.....so professional Brian.
Thank you- it does take a lot of time, but as long as I feel it's appreciated then I'm happy to do it. : )
I knew I remembered this Astro Van . Thanks for the great videos Brian. I always learn something.
excellent video... I have an 03 Astro that is throwing codes p0446, p0452, p0455... Your video has given me a much better idea what to look for and chase... Thank you.
I'm having that same problem, i changed the solenoid problem still there I'll definitely check the electrical...thanks bud
I think I just figured out that I am the 1% that has a busted wire and not a bad solenoid. I have the P0449 and replaced the vent and purge solenoid on 03 Silverado(was a booger to get out but did it without lifting bed). Once out I tested plug for power, before watching this that is... it didn't have 12V. So, I assumed it received it when it needed it from PCM. But it seems it receives the ground when it needs it, so I should have 12V at the plug constant. Went ahead and put new solenoid in. Still has code. Found your video on testing the 03 Chevy with good Vent where you discover the fuse contact was not good. I tried that, pulling the fuse a few times, still 449. Then found this Video... and I think this is where I am. After rain, I will see if I can back trace the wire and find a break in it. Thanks for these. Question... Would this code make the truck go into a "Reduced Engine Power" message on the display/odometer board in the dash? 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 LS 5.3L ext cab short bed.
more Astro van repairs! thanks for everything you do!
It's got a short to ground somewhere or a drain to ground. I would check for a Power antenna wire (blue) for an aftermarket radio or something if you have one. Otherwise check out the wire harness' in the steering column.
It could be, but I was concerned about the other wires chafing it. It had to be pulled back tight. That pressure could make for trouble later.
Air fuel metering I suppose. It was also due for a tune up and got one a couple months later. It had 140K miles on some 100K mile plugs.
I agree with Hector, great video!!! Good job!!! Thanks for sharing and taking the time to video tape this!!!!
I have a question on a 2004 Safari van, l had a chech engine light in and went to Auto Zone and had it diagnosed, it said fuel pressure sensor not working, so l had mt lical mechanic put in the fule sensor at the engine, still had a light on, so he advised to put in a new fuel pump and replace the fuel sensor at the top of the tank, eell it worked fir about a week and light came back on, l went to Auto Zone again and was still saying pressure sensor, so what do l do next to get the light off?
Thanks you pointed out what to pay attention to. Helped me out too get my van going again
I think its great how you always say you're welcome!
great info. have never ran into this yet, but now i know where to look if i ever have to diagnose this problem.
How do you know where the roots of a tree are? You follow what you can see to where you know where they should be. : ) Start at the gas tank (obvious to find) and follow lines away from there. Having replaced fuel pumps I'd seen the lines in order to separate them from the tank.
Hey man! Good to hear from you!
I get them from below and behind the exhaust manifold.
well my man this was an EXCELLENT video there aren't many techs like you out there!! great job brother you sure know ur .... stuff
Actually, there are plenty of us out there, you just have to look for us :)
Why didn't orange wire with battery voltage blow a fuse as it was cut through by AC line? Was the AC line isolated from ground? Great video, thanks!
That's an input code. I would bank on wire shorting between the sensor and the computer. You're van thinks it's -40 F so it will run really rich like the air is thick even though it's not.
There's a tool you can buy that holds the crank pulley on then you can slide in a breaker bar and pull like mad. You gotta be super strong to break loose a Honda crank bolt by hand though.
i remember the first time someone told me they needed a doughnut when i worked a parts counter....images of boston cremes flowed through my head
Remember the first time you used a timing light? "Pulse stuff" is even easier. You just need the right tools that's all.
WINNER!!!! You're on it!
That's a really good year.
You found that in 45 min...Damn you are good !
Good and detailed video I'm about to jump on the same problem for my friend this should help a lot
Just agreed to buy a 1995 one for my first car. The wire loom wasn't rotted thank god (no codes either).
Love you videos, always very informative
This was phenomenal man, thanks!!
Thanks for sharing and educating us a little with every video very interesting very well done.
I am disabled as you know my 91 camry was hit behind and now the bumper is in the back seat !
Me and wife were flown to west chester hospital . we were cut out from the car . It had no airbags but the car that hit us was a 2007 jeep cherakee . I did not have collision due to my insurance said my car was a classic!! His insurance only gave me 1k for my camry with only 100k miles and it was in great condition . Now we are suing the crap out of him ,
Is a Scion XA a good car? we bought one.
I think Tan/white is heated oxygen sensor and pink/black is a fuel injector but dont know what guage
Man you make this stuff look easy! I really need a road trip to your place for some repairs. Ever hear of the break ABS combo light coming on after start up?
I have the samre problem
What did you find out on the misfire situation? I have a 93 and 94 Astro(s) and the wiring and loom on both are in great shape. GM must have bought crappier than normal stuff from overseas in the 10 year time difference. However, my vans are 4.3 Z engines, and I've had a strong gas smell on the 93 for a few weeks. Upon closer looking, I found the vapor canister (by the battery) split open on the top and wreaking of gas fumes. I immediately got another at Pick N Pull and no more smell.
Thanks- I agree
I found the (60K mile rated) spark plugs had gone over 100K miles. I did a tune up.
Make friends with people that have the tools you need. I recommend buying pastries for them. : )
good stuff thanks gone searching !!!
I need that glass rack!!
That's the nice thing about local business' they can custom make it onto your van like this one was. Just don't make it so tall. It's a huge pain for your mechanic.
Yet another great tutorial. Question: How do you know so much about so much? Cheers from Coquitlam, British Columbia, Canada
Hi there! I have a 2001 Chevy Astro Van Rear Wheel Drive I kept getting a diagnostic reading-O2 Sensor. I exchanged and put in a new O2 sensor and that did not resolve the issue. Somehow I removed one of the (2) wires on the O2 sensor and now I am getting a check engine light which I did not previously have. Qts. What is the best way to replace the wiring for O2 sensor connector? Thank you, Lynn Denver Co.
good job most people are afraid of wiring issues.
Very informative Brian!
doesnt your power probe kit have some gizmo for finding wire breaks?
I'm going to send my motorcycle to you, to diagnose the wiring harness. I don't have the patience for it :-)
Tired as always ; ) I need to get on a ship!
thank u sir thanks to you i was able to fix mine.really helpfull.
What size guage are the wires in the harness uptop above the steering column. My pink with black stripe and tan with white stripe are both burned do you know what they are for? I
By the way, how did you know where the vent solenoid was located? I am guess you had access to a detailed shop manual for the vehicle.
Thank you very much.
My 93 astro van dies when it comes to a stop or a turn every now and then do you think its a wire i allready changed the fuel filter it is still dying
I'm restless. And SO VERY CURIOUS.
well done and an excellent vid. thanks
Thank you- you're nice.
good vid brian, how r u these times.
It's me just wanted to say thanks from Carlsbad, Ca.
You're welcome Mike! Great to hear from you!
Hey brian ,Great video man i wish i knew you, and you were close to where we live . my problem is driving me and my mechanic crazy!!! ugh ! anyway i have a question. my 2001 astro cranks after setting 2 days wont turn over, i changed fuel pump, alternator, battery, wire from pump up, relays, checked fuses, distributor cap, rotor button, plugs, wires, tested solenoid, checked for broken wires, no codes runs great when running, could it be a crank sensor ????? or a cam sensor getting good fuel pressure, Im worn bro please give me your 2 cents Thanks Randy 513 two 90 37 nine 3
R Lovins WOW that is so frustrating that you checked EVERYTHING and still a no start I hope you finally found the problem and maybe reply back about how you fixed it?
How would u get to the middle plug behind the shaft on this motor
great vid. what is you opinion of astro vans ?
Okay, looks like I might have same issue. Any advice about the wire cover? Mine crumbles away every time I touch it. Is there a way to re-wrap it with a new heat wrap or to difficult?
After 2002 they were in some real financial trouble and began cutting costs. This van DOES HAVE 240K miles though to their credit. (I'm not a Chevy fan boy, but not a hater either)
You can thank my dad for that- I get it from him. : )
Hey Brian... Im having somewhat of a same issue. security light , low fuel, battery , and security light come on after a few mins of running after start up. had it at a shop. they cant find the issue. do you think this could be a similar issue??? broken wires, short.?? I know the wires go around the doghouse and topside like in your video. Im hoping this is the issue I want to try and fix it myself if at all possible
what did you mean by blowing pressure to it ?
Thanks- I'd like to raise the roof and have the money- the city won't allow it though.
Brian, was the misfire resolved? please elaborate, thanks
They're decent.
I would like to see more.
And no I'm not using a cheater bar cause you will wind up messing something up the bolt expands in its socket
How can I get off my timing belt off a 95 Honda accord with out a torch or an air ratchet cause the damn bolt wont come off and I'm to broke for a shop or air tools and torch
boy that thing is a pos as far as assembly, nice work on the trouble shooting,,
My buick has p0446 code. I've changed the purge and vent solenoids , charcoal canister and gas cap and code comes back..help please?
Where do you get your wiring diagrams from?
My Extech instruments does. But not er'body has one a dem.
I'll give it credit for lasting that long, but it's a 2003 which is still unacceptable. Knowing how bad things can be, makes me appreciate my 14 year old Lexus ES even more. It's practically brand new with 190k on the clock, compared to this vehicle. To be fair though, Toyota was in a much better state back then, so they could afford to pay closer attention to their premium vehicles.
Thanks good video
i love your vids
instead of actually finding the wire break i would have just ran a new wire from up front to the back of the engine and left the old wire in place. I also probably would have said the vent valve was bad as soon as i saw those codes but as we see its not good to jump to conclusions based on past experiences.
nice work!
lol My only complaint is the damn rack.
I had the same issue with the vent circuit on a 02 Sonoma 4.3l. My issue was also the wire loom was rotted and worn except my broken wire was chafed because of rubbing on the gas tank and frame rail. I simply ran a new wire and taped the plastic loom up real well. What was up with the misfire?
THIS GUYS GREAT SUPER HERO MECHANIC
I have an 03 mini kicking my rear ,
the disastro van returneth
Brian, I have a 2005 astro with a ground issue. Have you experienced any issues with the ground on thermostat housing on these 4.3s?
Wow Chevy really didn't put much thought into putting this car together. I guess the finance department was in charge.
thumbs up
if ur headed for ireland, watch out for the icebergs in the north atlantic, and call in for a wee cup of tea, or a pint of guinness.