1990 Buick Park Avenue small air pump/motor runs after igni

1990 BUICK PARK AVENUE
184,000 MILES • 6 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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SGDAHLGREN
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  • 2 POSTS
The other day I got out of my car after shutting it off and a motor came on under the hood. Not the engine, just a small motor. It is located behind the drivers side headlamp. It has wires running into and out of it. It has a barbed stubout for what looks like a vacuum like to fit over, but nothing is attached. When this little air pump runs I can put my finger over the barb and it is creating suction.
I don't know what this little air pump is, what it is supposed to do, or why it's running after the car is shut off. Please help. At least give me a name for this device so I can research more.

Thanks,
Steve
Feb 17, 2009 at 3:34 PM
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DOCFIXIT
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 18,828 POSTS
Electronic Level Control Motor and next to it control module. There are height sensors on car and pump will activate to level car.
Feb 18, 2009 at 12:54 AM
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SGDAHLGREN
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So, is there supposed to be some sort of hose attached to the barb fitting? Should it run after the car is shut off. It runs for 5 minutes or so.


https://images.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/319544_pump_1.jpg

Feb 18, 2009 at 3:34 AM
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DOCFIXIT
  • Experienced Mechanic
  • 18,828 POSTS
Should be a hose there. Pump will run to level car if the hose is off then pump will on timer till it levels on runs out of time
Feb 18, 2009 at 4:01 AM
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LOGICALCHOICE
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I've seen 100's of these but never seen a hose on that barbed nipple. If i can't level the car (usually due to a leak) it will time out and stop pumping. Sorry he already said that. highjackers are awsome replacements and priced reasonably.
Oct 25, 2009 at 7:10 AM
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