Hey guys,

 

New to the neighborhood here but most of you really sound like you know what you are talking about. I've got a problem. I'm trying to sell my "Super-u" but being in CA I have to smog first. So she passed emissions but the functional test made me take it in to a tech who is saying it needs a new computer to make the check engine light go off. I understand this to mean the ECU and he is telling me it will cost something like $500 just for the rebuilt computer!!! At this point it may cost more to smog than to sell and I'd really like to make SOMETHING off of this deal. PLEASE HELP. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I'm not a mechanic although I have some limited knowledge of this particular car and the work we have done on it. It's still in good shape but obviously smogging can be hell.

The check engine light is on because theres an error code. Seroiusly doubt that it needs a new ECU

 

under the dash, to the left of the steering column, there are 2 green connector, plug them in, turn the key on and count the flashes of the light on the computer. that will give you the error code and tell you what needs to be fixed.

 

 

If in fact you do need a new computer, let me know. I have one here for an 88 Turbo that I will let go for substantially less than $500

Good to hear a second opinion. I've been researching exactly HOW to check the codes. I think I can identify once I SEE them but where exactly would the light be that will be flashing the code? Is it actually on the ECU?

yup, on yours it is on the ECU.. right in the middle.. its a little LED..green I think, but can't remember.

well, I connected the greens, and turned the ignition to on (engine off). I'm getting code 03 (3 quick flashes) but from what I can tell that does not exist! Also, I see the green connectors. What are the black connectors for?

I thought you didn't have to connect anything, wasn't that just to clear codes? or am I all bassackwards.

Do you want to sell your wagon as is?

 

Hey guys,

 

New to the neighborhood here but most of you really sound like you know what you are talking about. I've got a problem. I'm trying to sell my "Super-u" but being in CA I have to smog first. So she passed emissions but the functional test made me take it in to a tech who is saying it needs a new computer to make the check engine light go off. I understand this to mean the ECU and he is telling me it will cost something like $500 just for the rebuilt computer!!! At this point it may cost more to smog than to sell and I'd really like to make SOMETHING off of this deal. PLEASE HELP. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I'm not a mechanic although I have some limited knowledge of this particular car and the work we have done on it. It's still in good shape but obviously smogging can be hell.

Disconnect the the green plugs and remove the positive battery cable overnight. This will clear any codes that are in the ECU. If they come back, tell us what they are and we will see what can be done.

I actually managed to find a good price on the ecu and replaced it. It still is showing one more code (22 = knock sensor). So I'm trying to replace the knock sensor but I'm actually having a heck of a time FINDING it. Anyone know where EXACTLY the knock sensor is on an 88 GL10???

Top of the block, behind the intake manifold.. A little left of center.

See picture below. (If it works... first attempt attaching pic.)