Holy Pistons, Batman

May 2, 2016
Some owners of  2007-2014 Cadillac Escalades, Chevy Avalanche, Silverado, Suburban or Tahoe, GMC Sierra or Yukon or Hummer H2 vehicles may complain of an SES light and constant engine misfire. In some cases, they may also complain of an engine tick/knock noise.

Some owners of  2007-2014 Cadillac Escalades, Chevy Avalanche, Silverado, Suburban or Tahoe, GMC Sierra or Yukon or Hummer H2 vehicles may complain of an SES light and constant engine misfire. In some cases, they may also complain of an engine tick/knock noise.

During diagnosis, the technician may find no compression on the misfiring cylinder(s) with 100% leakage into the crankcase. (Yes, your initial guess is correct: the piston may be blown).

If a lighted borescope is available, inspect the top of the related piston(s) through the spark plug hole to check for piston damage. You may find melted or fractured piston dome area.

If piston damage is found, this may be the result of aftermarket ECM calibrations and/or aftermarket components. Inspect the aftermarket add-ons such as exhaust, ignition or intake system modifications. Determine if factory ECM calibration numbers and CVNs are present by following the latest version of 09-06-04-026.

Sponsored Recommendations

Gain expert insight into today’s evaporative emission systems and why OE-matched EVAP components are crucial for performance and compliance. See how Standard® delivers precision...
There is a difference in gas fuel injectors. Learn why Under the Hood’s Russ Evans uses Standard Fuel Injectors on his customer’s vehicles.
Just following a few simple tips can improve your pneumatic tool's performance and provide years of safe, maintenance-free service. Dive in to see what you could apply to your...
Hear what senior autotechs have to say about the AIRCAT Nitrocat 1056-XL compact impact wrench. They’ll provide their reviews on tools they own and have been using every day on...

Voice Your Opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Vehicle Service Pros, create an account today!