I have a 2000 Pontiac Grand Am 6 cyl that I just ...

thank you for the question hope this helps

The "Service Engine Soon"(SES) light comes on any time that a problem is seen in the computer control system. It can be an ignition problem, a fuel supply or injection problem, or an emission control related failure.
Any time that the light comes on, a code is stored in the computer. The codes lead to specific ares of the system that the problem is in. Thats where us technicians come in. We get the codes out of the computer and then trace down the cause of the problem.
There is way too much involved for me to be able to give you a crash course in drive ability diagnosis.
To avoid costly guesses, you should take it in to the shop and have it diagnosed. After you find out the cause, you can decide if you want to tackle the repairs yourself or let the techs do it.
If you can get someone to pull the codes for you, let me know what they are and I might be able to steer you in the right direction before you take it in to the shop. Some parts stores will get the codes, like Auto zone. But don't let them try to sell you a part to fix it. Let me know what the codes are first. i can help further

or if you feel comfortable pulling the codes yourself her is how you do this
To extract a trouble from the computer for diagnostic purposes, the Assembly Line Communication Link (ALDL) connector is used.

Ground terminals A and B with the ignition "ON" and engine not running. The system will enter the diagnostic mode. In this mode, the computer will display a 12, three consecutive times, by flashing the "CHECK ENGINE", "SERVICE ENGINE SOON" or "MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP" or light. A 12 consists of one flash, a short pause, then two flashes in rapid succession.

After 12 is displayed, any stored trouble s will be displayed by flashing the "CHECK ENGINE", "SERVICE ENGINE SOON" or "MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP" light. All s are displayed 3 times each then a 12 will repeat. In the diagnostic mode, the computer will also energize all computer controlled relays and solenoids.

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Per your request I had previously had Auto Zone pull the code as follows:

OBDII (ALPHA) P CODE
TROUBLESHOOTING P0442
"THE PCM HAS DETERMINED THAT A SMALL LEAK EXISTS IN THE EVAPORATIVE EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM."

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Relist:
David,
The fuel cap was replaced by the dealer and checked again th esecond time I took it in. Can it still be defective? I am going to check the fuel lines as you indicated but should I replace the fuel cap again? Will the light go off by itself if everything functions okay?

if the cap was replaced it may tack 7 to 10 driving cycles to reset the engine light. if the light is still there in say a week. then i would say check the fuel lines, fuel tank, and the evaporative cannister.

you can also start and shut off the car 7 to 10 times to reset the code.


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If I was helpful please click the accept button bonuses are appreciated If I haven't answered your question completely just respond for more help We have real time chat available now just go to my profile and request chat at the bottom
Thanks
David