Top 10 1999 Chevrolet Astro Questions & Answers

I have the same problem, I replaced the fuel pump. Did NOT solve it. i was told that it is a computer problem. The computer is not sending electric to the fuel pump, by cranking it several times the oil pressure builds up and will over ride the computer and send power to the fuel pump. This is a common problem on these asrto vans.

No such switch .

Crawl under he car, it is on the bottom of the tank useualy on the drivers side (it is there, look on both side tanks), it is black plastic with a key shaped paddle to open the drain, it turns counter-clockwise, u can't see it from the top

from what i am finding the code means o2 sensors. they recommend replacing them and if this does not work than replacing the cat converter

The catalytic converter has an oxygen sensor in front and behind it. When the vehicle is warm and running in closed loop mode, the upstream oxygen sensor waveform reading should fluctuate. The downstream O2 sensor reading should be fairly steady. Typically the P0420 code triggers the Check Engine Light if the readings of the two sensors are similar. This is indicative of (among other things) a converter that is not working as efficiently as it should be (according to specs). It is part of the vehicle emissions system.

causes

A code P0420 may mean that one or more of the following has happened:

• Leaded fuel was used where unleaded was called for
• An oxygen sensor is not reading (functioning) properly
• The engine coolant temperature sensor is not working properly
• Damaged or leaking exhaust manifold / catalytic converter / exhaust pipe
• Retarded spark timing
• The oxygen sensors in front and behind the converter are reporting too similar of readings

possible soloutions

Some suggested steps for troubleshooting a P0420 code include:

• Check for exhaust leaks at the manifold, pipes, catalytic converter. Repair as required.
• Use a scope to diagnose the oxygen sensor operation (Tip: The oxygen sensor in front of the catalytic converter normally has a fluctuating waveform. The waveform of the sensor behind the converter should be more steady).
• Inspect the downstream heated oxygen sensor (HO2), replace if necessary
• Replace the catalytic converter

One thing to note is that many vehicle manufacturers offer a longer warranty on emissions-related parts. So if you have a newer car but it's out of it's bumper-to-bumper warranty, there still may be warranty on this type of problem. Many manufacturers give a five year, unlimited mileage warranty on these items. It's worth checking into.


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1999 CHEVROLET TRUCKS ASTRO VAN 4.3L 6-cyl Engine Code [W]
CAPACITIES: Automatic Transmission, 4L60-E Initial Fill..........4.7 liters
Automatic Transmission, Total Fill 4 speed 4L60-E..........10.6 liters
To check fluid level, transmission should be hot and engine running at idle. Pull the transmission dip stick out "red" wipe clean and re-insert. Check level of transmission fluid as indicated on the dip stick using the second reading and make sure the Astro is parked on leveled ground. Add Dexron III or VI as needed and do not over fill.
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The P1870 DTC code is trans-axle component slipping. In most cases you can replace the transmission control solenoid and it should solve the issue. These solenoids are known to kick this code. Also I would recommend doing a transmission service.

follow the wires to the drl relay. It must be inline from the regular light switch to the headlamps. I have a 1990 Cadillac Deville that has an aftermarket module that controls the daytime running lamps, and it is mounted on the driver's side wheel well.

Some relays are found in the fuse box under the hood.

If your daytime running lamps burnt out, take it to an electrical shop and ask them to check it out.

If you buy an aftermarket daytime running lamp kit, they can install it for you.

But, I agree, you should check for voltage and function at the relay for the daytime running lamps on your Astro.

But, if all else fails, the electrical shop should be able to diagnose and repair this problem.

P0300 Diagnostic Code - Random Misfire
Technical description:--
Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected:---
Exactly what does this code means:--
Basically this means that the the car's computer has detected that not all of the engine's cylinders are firing properly.
A P0300 diagnostic code indicates a random or multiple misfire. If the last digit is a number other than zero, it corresponds to the cylinder number that is misfiring. A P0302 code, for example, would tell you cylinder number two is misfiring. Unfortunately, a P0300 doesn't tell you specifically which cylinder(s) is/are mis-firing, nor why.
Symptoms:--
the engine may be harder to start.the engine may stumble / stumble, and/or hesitate.
other symptoms may also be present…There may be rough idle, sputters and stallsand jerks.
Causes:--
A code P0300 may mean that one or more of the following has happened:
Faulty spark plugs or wires, Faulty coil (pack), Faulty oxygen sensor(s)
Faulty fuel injector(s),Burned exhaust valve, Faulty catalytic converter(s)
Stuck/blocked EGR valve / passages, Faulty camshaft position sensor, Defective computer.
Possible solutions for this error problem:--
If there are no symptoms, the simplest thing to do is to reset the code and see if it comes back.
If there are symptoms such as the engine is stumbling or hesitating, check all wiring and connectors that lead to the cylinders (i.e. spark plugs). Depending on how long the ignition components have been in the vehicle, it may be a good idea to replace them as part of your regular maintenance schedule. I would suggest spark plugs, spark plug wires, distributor cap, and rotor (if applicable). Otherwise, check the coils (a.k.a. coil packs). In some cases, the catalytic converter has gone bad. If you smell rotten eggs in the exhaust, your cat converter needs to be replaced. I've also heard in other cases the problems were faulty fuel injectors.
Random misfires that jump around from one cylinder to another (read: P030x codes) also will set a P0300 code. The underlying cause is often a lean fuel condition, which may be due to a vacuum leak in the intake manifold or un-metered air getting past the airflow sensor, or an EGR valve that is stuck open.

Had the same issue with our 1999 chevy astro van, would crank but would not start. It had been raining and windshield had a leak, after 2 days of no rain it started. Pulled codes and was the Security system in the ignition switch. Hope this helps.

If the light is on there are code stored ! Not in the PCM/ECM engine computer . In the BCM , do you know what that is ? body control module ! Need a factory scan tool or equivalent to check !
DTC B0688 Security System Indicator Circuit High
DTC B2947 Security System Sensor Power CKT Low
DTC B2948 Security System Sensor Power CKT High
DTC B2957 Security System Sensor Data Circuit Low
DTC B2958 Security System Sensor Data Circuit High
DTC B2960 Sec Sys Sensor Data Incorrect but Valid
DTC B3031 Security System Controller in Learn Mode
DTC B3033 Security System Indicates Tamper
DTC C0559 EEPROM Checksum Error
Why does everyone want to chop up things , by pass etc... The right fix could be cheaper then ruining your vehicle . Chopping up wiring harnesses . Their are by pass module , don't know how much they are . It may or may not fix the problem . Pulling the code and doing the diagnostics is still the best solution .