QuestionI have a 2000 GMC Safari 6cyl. My "Check Engine Soon" light came on and it's starting to run poorly. Especially when it's cold, when you step on the gas to speed up, it jerks and bucks. If it had a carburetor I'd say it felt like a carburetor problem. At higher speeds after it's warmed up it isn't too bad but I can sometimes feel a little miss in it. Is there a way to get the codes without one of those code readers?
AnswerHi
I would get the code read, you can do this at Autozone, and alot of other parts stores and auto repair shops for free.
Just from experience and the conditions you state, I would HIGHLY suspect the distributor cap and rotor and being your problem.
There IS a recall out for SOME vehicles with the 4.3l V-6 as your van has.
You can call your local dealership and have your VIN (vehicle Identification Number) handy..... they'll be able to look it up and see if it has any open recalls, which MAY include the dist. cap recall.
I also, would recommend considering a MAJOR tune up on van, (plugs, wires, cap, rotor, fuel filter, air filter.)
It NEVER hurts.
And to answer last portion of question, no there is no way to retrieve codes without a scanner.
I Hope this helps.
Good Luck
Pawl
