J30 failed AZ emissions d/t no check engine light

[drsmoller]

New registered poster.

Just failed emissions with '97 J30. Said no check engine light on or off. This is a new one to me. Thought that they only checked to see if thing was on, but mine is just completely negative when ignition goes over and they set up the OBD. I never noticed the thing either way. Also instrument cluster constantly shows seatbelt light on. I've never worried about it, but figured would mention that.

Going to make this a DIY project. Tell you what, I really do not like the emissions stuff and truly believe this is just another way to tax us all. Getting sick of all these taxes - pretty soon they will put us all out of business.

So, DIY. I figure on checking the bulb first and don't think there is fuse for this anywhere. Okay. I also do not know how to get to the thing to check wiring/bulb, etc. Any help? And/or suggestions on things I might check as well regarding problem?

I called shop about checking it out and they were a bit vague on everything from cost to anything else about this - made me nervous. So, yeah, DIY. Another thing which makes me nervous is, if I fix the lamp somehow, then perchance the thing stays lit and then fail emissions still b/c of functioning light....GEEZ!

Thank you for any advance.

Scott

[qship96]

Easy enough to plug in a generic OBD2 code reader to see if ECU has any fault codes stored. Check for burned out bulb by removing gauge cluster following the service manual instructions......hint, if you are going to all the trouble to remove cluster, have EVERY single little light bulb that goes to every gauge on hand, and replace every one{working or not} while it is apart.....its all about avoiding duplicate labor

[goody90q45]

SlyByDesign had the same problem with his Q and it turned out the reset screw on the back of the ECU was not turned fully CCW by the previous owner. I know yours is a 97 and OBD2 but it's worth checking before pulling the speedo cluster.

If you're a DIY'er, the ECU is easy to remove and should be behind the passenger side kick panel. Instructions for pulling codes will be in the FSM either in the electrical or emissions section.

http://www.nicoclub.com/FSM/J30/

[drsmoller]

Thank you. I will check. Is it easy to get in there? I've taken apart my previous Q but this one is definitely different. Some things seem easier, but not sure. Best place to get bulbs/lamps?I just ordered O2 sensor from AZautohaus and didn't have luck checking for the J on anything there.

Also, with guy telling me to check ECU, well, I'm not completely stupid, but what the heck is that?Thank you.

Scott

[drsmoller]

Like your Q45 by the way. Wish I had never given mine to my cousin. I miss that ride so much.

sm

[goody90q45]

Also, with guy telling me to check ECU, well, I'm not completely stupid, but what the heck is that?

Oops. New Guy. Sorry.

These will get you started:

ECU- Engine Control Unit, orECM- Engine Control ModuleTCU- Transmission Control Unit (or Module)Plenum- Intake Manifold

Engine codes can be pulled manually from the ECU if you don't have a plug-in code reader. Turn the screw, count the flashes, reset the screw. I think possibly a PO (previous owner) didn't reset the screw all the way.

Like your Q45 by the way. Wish I had never given mine to my cousin. I miss that ride so much.

I sold the gold 90Q about 3 years ago and had sellers remorse ever since. I bought it back about a month ago (for half the price I sold it).

Both my Q's are great cars. Thanks.

[drsmoller]

Oh, man, thank you. I gave my Q to my cousin and fear that I may have to actually "buy" back what I gave. One thing I miss most is the seat memory and extreme power - best car ever. There is a guy around the corner from me with a '95 or so, but he is asking way more than the worth. Pearl exterior. I do like the J30 but I feel like I'm driving a Corvette when I attempt to stoop out of the seat. Also, it seems the Q45 was easier to work on than the J.

sm

[goody90q45]

If you're comfortable with removing the intake and replacing injector orings this seems like a great deal close to home:

zer...arter