C0342 Chevrolet Cobalt Diagnostic Trouble Code

C0342 Chevrolet Cobalt code definition:
C0342 is a kind of OBD-II Diagnostic C-Chassis Diagnostic Trouble Code for Chevrolet Cobalt.

C0342 Chevrolet Cobalt is a DTC or a diagnostic trouble code. It is a check engine light code which indicates that the catalyst's system efficiency is less than the required threshold. In simple terms, it means that more pollution is added into the air than what was supposed to be because of your car. Other symptoms that may indicate this problem are when the Check Engine Light illuminates and when there is a visible lack of engine power.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a C0342 Chevrolet Cobalt diagnostic trouble code may include:

Diminished fuel efficiency
Fuel pressure too high
Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illuminated
Engine surge

Possible Causes :

Rusty exhaust systems, cracked exhaust manifolds or damaged or missing gaskets or donuts will cause air leaks.
An air leak forward of the DPF will change the sensor readings resulting in the code
Faulty IMRC actuator/sensor

Common Misdiagnoses

Vehicle Speed Output Circuit Problem
Cruise Control Servo Indicates Low Problem
A/C System High Pressure High Temperature Problem
PCM Stack Overrun Problem
Transmission Control Module Reprogrammable Memory Problem

Repair Processes :

Use the DVOM to test resistance and continuity on all system circuits if actuator and sensor resistance levels are in compliance with manufacturer's specifications. Find out what kind of system you have and verify that voltage to the fuel level sensor is present at the fuel pump wiring harness.

Process Tips

Diagnostic trouble code C0342 Chevrolet Cobalt is not difficult to diagnose and repair. Thus, it always pays to have a qualified technician to look after your vehicle should this error code arise.

Diagnosing this code requires the engine to be in good running shape, without unmetered air entering the engine. If other codes that relates to misfiring condition, lean running or air entering the engine is present, then you must first fix those error codes before C0342 Chevrolet Cobalt.

Fortunately, C0342 Chevrolet Cobalt is a fairly common OBD code, meaning that it applies to all makes and models of vehicles made after 1996.