Introduction WHAT IS OBD? WHAT IS OBD? The OBD2 Scan Tool is designed to work on all OBD 2 compliant vehicles. All 1996 and newer vehicles (cars, light trucks and SUVs) sold in the United States are OBD 2 compliant. One of the most exciting improvements in the automobile industry was the addition of on-board diagnostics (OBD) on vehicles,...
You Can Do It! EASY TO USE - EASY TO VIEW - EASY TO DEFINE Easy To Use ..Connect the Scan Tool to the vehi- ■ cle’s test connector. Turn the ignition key "On.” ■ Press the LINK button. ■...
Safety Precautions SAFETY FIRST! SAFETY FIRST! To avoid personal injury, instrument damage and/or damage to your vehicle; do not use the OBD2 Scan Tool before reading this manual. This manual describes common test procedures used by experienced service technicians. Many test procedures require precautions to avoid accidents that can result in personal injury, and/or damage to your vehicle or test equipment.
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Safety Precautions SAFETY FIRST! To prevent damage to the on-board computer when tak- ing vehicle electrical measurements, always use a digi- tal multimeter with at least 10 megOhms of impedance. Fuel and battery vapors are highly flammable. To pre- vent an explosion, keep all sparks, heated items and open flames away from the battery and fuel / fuel vapors.
About the Scan Tool VEHICLES COVERED VEHICLES COVERED The OBD2 Scan Tool is designed to work on all OBD 2 compliant vehi- cles. All 1996 and newer vehicles (cars and light trucks) sold in the United States are OBD 2 compliant. Federal law requires that all 1996 and newer cars and light trucks sold in the United States must be OBD 2 compliant;...
About the Scan Tool VEHICLES COVERED / BATTERY REPLACEMENT On some Asian and European vehicles the DLC is located behind the “ashtray” (the ashtray must be removed to access it) or on the far left corner of the dash. If the DLC cannot be located, consult the vehicle’s service manual for the location.
About the Scan Tool ADJUSTMENTS AND SETTINGS ADJUSTMENTS AND SETTINGS The OBD2 Scan Tool lets you make several adjustments and settings to configure the Scan Tool for your particular needs. The following adjustments and settings are available: DTC Library - Library of OBD2 DTC definitions. ■...
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About the Scan Tool ADJUSTMENTS AND SETTINGS The selected character displays “solid”, and the next character ■ begins flashing. 3. Select the remaining characters in the DTC in the same way, press- ing the DTC SCROLL button to confirm each character. When you have selected all the DTC characters, press the ENTER/LD button to view the DTC definiition.
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About the Scan Tool ADJUSTMENTS AND SETTINGS The Brightness field shows the cur- ■ rent brightness setting, from 0 to 43. 2. Press the UP button to decrease the brightness of the display (make the display darker). 3. Press the DOWN button to increase the brightness of the display (make the display lighter).
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About the Scan Tool ADJUSTMENTS AND SETTINGS Setting the Unit of Measurement 1. Use the UP and DOWN but- tons, as necessary, to highlight Unit of Measurement in the MENU, then press the ENTER/LD button. 2. Press the UP or DOWN button, as necessary, to highlight the desired Unit of Measurement.
Scan Tool Controls CONTROLS AND INDICATORS CONTROLS AND INDICATORS Figure 1. Controls and Indicators See Figure 1 for the locations of items 1 through 11, below. ERASE button - Erases Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), and “Freeze Frame” data from your vehicle’s computer, and resets Monitor status.
Scan Tool Controls DISPLAY FUNCTIONS DOWN button - When in MENU mode, scrolls DOWN through the menu and submenu selection options. When LINKED to a vehicle, scrolls DOWN through the current display screen to display any addi- tional data. UP button - When in MENU mode, scrolls UP through the menu and submenu selection options.
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Scan Tool Controls DISPLAY FUNCTIONS 1. I/M MONITOR STATUS field - Identifies the I/M Monitor status area. 2. Monitor icons - Indicate which Monitors are supported by the vehi- cle under test, and whether or not the associated Monitor has run its diagnostic testing (Monitor status).
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Scan Tool Controls DISPLAY FUNCTIONS 13. Code Number Sequence - The Scan Tool assigns a sequence number to each DTC that is present in the computer’s memory, starting with “01.” This number indicates which code is currently displayed. Code number “01” is always the highest priority code, and the one for which “Freeze Frame”...
Onboard Diagnostics DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTCs) DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTCs) Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are meant to guide you to the proper serv- Diagnostic Trouble ice procedure in the vehicle’s service Codes (DTCs) are manual. DO NOT replace parts based codes that identify a only on DTCs without first consulting specific problem area.
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Onboard Diagnostics DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTCs) OBD 2 DTC EXAMPLE P0201 - Injector Circuit Malfunction, Cylinder 1 P 0 2 0 1 Body Chassis Powertrain Network Generic Manufacturer Specific Generic Includes both Generic and Manufacturer Specific Codes Identifies the system where the problem is located: Fuel and Air Metering Fuel and Air Metering (injector circuit...
Preparation for Testing PRELIMINARY VEHICLE DIAGNOSIS WORKSHEET PRELIMINARY VEHICLE DIAGNOSIS WORKSHEET The purpose of this form is to help you gather preliminary information on your vehicle before you retrieve codes. By having a complete account of your vehicle's current problem(s), you will be able to systematically pin- point the problem(s) by comparing your answers to the fault codes you retrieve.
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Preparation for Testing PRELIMINARY VEHICLE DIAGNOSIS WORKSHEET WHEN DID YOU FIRST NOTICE THE PROBLEM: ❑ Just Started ❑ Started Last Week ❑ Started Last Month ❑ Other: LIST ANY REPAIRS DONE IN THE PAST SIX MONTHS: PROBLEMS STARTING ❑ ❑ No symptoms Cranks, but will not start ❑...
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Preparation for Testing PRELIMINARY VEHICLE DIAGNOSIS WORKSHEET AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS (if applicable) ❑ ❑ No symptoms Vehicle does not move when in ❑ gear Shifts too early or too late ❑ ❑ Jerks or bucks Changes gear incorrectly PROBLEM OCCURS ❑...
Preparation for Testing BEFORE YOU BEGIN BEFORE YOU BEGIN The OBD2 Scan Tool aids in monitoring electronic- emissions-related faults in your vehicle and retrieving fault codes related to malfunc- tions these systems. Mechanical problems such as low oil level or damaged hoses, wiring or electrical connectors can cause poor engine perform- ance and may also cause a fault code to set.
Preparation for Testing VEHICLE SERVICE MANUALS VEHICLE SERVICE MANUALS Always refer to the manufacturer’s service manual for your vehicle before performing any test or repair procedures. Contact your local car dealership, auto parts store or bookstore for availability of these man- uals.
Using the Scan Tool CODE RETRIEVAL PROCEDURE CODE RETRIEVAL PROCEDURE Retrieving and using Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) for troubleshooting vehicle operation is only one part of an overall diagnostic strategy. Never replace a part based only on the DTC definition. Each DTC has a set of testing procedures, instructions and flow charts that must be followed to confirm the loca- tion of the problem.
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Using the Scan Tool CODE RETRIEVAL PROCEDURE If the unit does not power on automatically when connected to ■ the vehicle’s DLC connector, it usually indicates there is no power present at the vehicle’s DLC connector. Check your fuse panel and replace any burned-out fuses. If replacing the fuse(s) does not correct the problem, consult your ■...
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Using the Scan Tool CODE RETRIEVAL PROCEDURE The Scan Tool will display a code only ■ if codes are present in the vehicle’s computer memory. If no codes are present, a “No DTC’s are presently stored in the vehicle’s computer” message is displayed.
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Using the Scan Tool CODE RETRIEVAL PROCEDURE Green LED – Indicates that all ■ engine systems are “OK” and operat- ing normally. All monitors supported by the vehicle have run and per- formed their diagnostic testing, and no trouble codes are present. A zero will show on the Scan Tool’s display, and all Monitor icons will be solid.
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Using the Scan Tool CODE RETRIEVAL PROCEDURE DTC’s that start with “P1” and some ■ “P3” are Enhanced (Manufacturer spe- cific) codes and their code definitions vary with each vehicle manufacturer. When an Enhanced (Manufacturer specific) DTC is retrieved, the LCD dis- play shows a list of vehicle manufactur- ers.
Using the Scan Tool ERASING DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTCs) If more than one malfunction is present that causes more than one DTC to be set, only the code with the highest pri- ority will contain Freeze Frame data. The code designated “01”...
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Using the Scan Tool ERASING DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTCs) When DTCs are erased from the vehicle's computer memo- ry, the I/M Readiness Monitor Status program resets the sta- tus of all Monitors to a not run "flashing" condition. To set all of the Monitors to a DONE status, an OBD 2 Drive Cycle must be performed.
Using the Scan Tool I/M READINESS TESTING If the erase was not successful, an ■ advisory message shows on the dis- play. Verify that the Scan Tool is prop- erly connected to the vehicle’s DLC and that the ignition is on, then repeat steps 2 and 3, above.
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Using the Scan Tool I/M READINESS TESTING To have an efficient Vehicle Emission Control System, all the emis- sions-related components and systems must work correctly whenever the vehicle is in operation. To comply with State and Federal Government regulations, vehicle manufacturers designed a series of special computer programs called "Monitors"...
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Using the Scan Tool I/M READINESS TESTING The Scan Tool allows you to retrieve Monitor/System Status Infor- mation to help you determine if the vehicle is ready for an Emissions Test (Smog Check). In addition to retrieving Diagnostic Trouble Codes, the Scan Tool also retrieves Monitor Run/Not Run status.
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Using the Scan Tool I/M READINESS TESTING 2. YELLOW LED - Determine from the Code Retrieval Procedure (page 22) which of the two possible conditions is causing the yellow LED to light. If a "PENDING" Diagnostic Trouble ■ Code is causing the yellow LED to light, it is possible that the vehicle will be allowed to be tested for emissions and certified.
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Using the Scan Tool I/M READINESS TESTING Repair the vehicle yourself. If you are going to perform the ■ repairs yourself, proceed by reading the vehicle service manual and following all its procedures and recommendations. Take the vehicle to a professional to have it serviced. The prob- ■...
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Using the Scan Tool I/M READINESS TESTING 4. When a Monitor's Trip Drive Cycle is performed properly, the Monitor icon on the Scan Tool’s display changes from "flashing" to "solid,” indicating that the Monitor has run and finished its diagnos- tic testing.
Live Data Mode VIEWING LIVE DATA The OBD2 Scan Tool is a special diagnostic tool that communicates with the vehicle's computer. The Scan Tool lets you view and/or "cap- ture" (record) "real-time" Live Data. This information includes values (volts, rpm, temperature, speed etc.) and system status information (open loop, closed loop, fuel system status, etc.) generated by the var- ious vehicle sensors, switches and actuators.
Live Data Mode CUSTOMIZING LIVE DATA (PIDs) If communication with the vehicle is ■ lost while viewing Live Data, a Communication Lost" message shows on the Scan Tool's display. 5. If you experience vehicle problems, view and/or compare the Live Data (PID) information displayed on the Scan Tool to specifications in the vehicle's repair manual.
Live Data Mode RECORDING (CAPTURING) LIVE DATA The "Custom Live Data" menu displays, with the first PID in the ■ menu highlighted. 4. Use the UP and DOWN buttons to scroll through the available PIDs. When the PID you wish to display is highlighted, press the ENTER/LD button to select it (a "checkmark"...
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Live Data Mode RECORDING (CAPTURING) LIVE DATA 1. With the Scan Tool in "Live Data" mode (see Viewing Live Data on page 35 for details), press and hold the ENTER/LD button until the "Mode Selection Menu" appears. 2. Use the UP and DOWN but- tons, as necessary, to highlight “Live...
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Live Data Mode RECORDING (CAPTURING) LIVE DATA A "One moment please. . ." message shows on the display. When ■ the Scan Tool is ready to record Live Data, the "Record Live Data" screen displays. 7. Put the engine in the operating condition that causes the DTC to set.
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Live Data Mode RECORDING (CAPTURING) LIVE DATA 1. With the Scan Tool in "Live Data" mode (see Viewing Live Data on page 35 for details), press and hold the ENTER/LD button until the "Mode Selection Menu" appears. 2. Use the UP and DOWN but- tons, as necessary, to highlight “Live...
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Live Data Mode RECORDING (CAPTURING) LIVE DATA A "One moment please. . ." message ■ shows on the display. When the Scan Tool is ready to record Live Data, the "Record Live Data" screen displays. 7. Put the engine in the operating condition where the problem manifests itself.
Live Data Mode LIVE DATA PLAYBACK 2. When you are LINKED to a vehicle and you are in the “Live Data View mode”, you can toggle between “Live Data View” mode and “DTC view” mode by alternately pressing and releasing the DTC SCROLL or the ENTER/LD buttons.
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Live Data Mode LIVE DATA PLAYBACK 3. When you have viewed all PID information for the current frame of Live Data, use the DOWN button to scroll to the end of the PID list. Highlight Next Frame or Previous Frame, as desired, then press the ENTER/LD button.
Additional Tests O2 SENSOR TEST In addition to retrieving Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) and viewing Live Data, you can use the Scan Tool to perform additional diagnostic tests, and to view diagnostic and vehicle information stored in your vehicle's on-board computer. Additional tests are accessed through the "Mode Selection Menu."...
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Additional Tests O2 SENSOR TEST X or XX - These characters identify the location of the O2 sensor in ■ relation to a cylinder bank. An O2 sensor for cylinder bank 1 is iden- tified by the designation “1” or "B1"; a sensor for cylinder bank 2 is identified as “2”...
Additional Tests NON-CONTINUOUS TEST NON-CONTINUOUS TEST The Non-Continuous Test function retrieves and displays test results for emission-related powertrain components and systems that are not continuously monitored. The tests available are determined by the vehicle manufacturer. The Scan Tool does not perform non-continuous test, but retrieves results from the most recently performed tests from the on-board computer’s memory.
Additional Tests SYSTEM TEST Status is calculated by the Scan Tool by comparing the Test Value against the displayed test limit (either Min or Max). Status is shown as either Low, High or OK. 5. When you have finished viewing the retrieved test data, scroll to the end of the display to select Exit, then press the ENTER/LD button to return to the “Select Test”...
Additional Tests VEHICLE INFORMATION VEHICLE INFORMATION The Vehicle Information function offers two options for retrieving ref- erence information for the vehicle under test; Vehicle ID and Available Modules. Retrieving Vehicle ID Information The Vehicle ID function is applicable to model year 2000 and newer OBD2-compliant vehicles.
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Additional Tests VEHICLE INFORMATION 4. When the retrieval process is complet- ed, the vehicle ID information is shown on the Scan Tool's display. Use the UP and DOWN buttons, as neces- sary, to view the entire list. 5. When you have finished viewing the retrieved vehicle ID information, press the ENTER/LD button to return to "Live Data"...
Generic (Global) OBD2 PID List The following is a list of Generic (Global) PIDs and their descriptions. Tool Display Unit Value PID Description ACC Pedal D XXX.X Accelerator Pedal Position D ACC Pedal E XXX.X Accelerator Pedal Position E ACC Pedal F XXX.X Accelerator Pedal Position F Air Status...
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Generic (Global) OBD2 PID List Tool Display Unit Value PID Description EQ Ratio 14 X.XXX Bank 1 - Sensor 4 Equivalence Ratio EQ Ratio 21 X.XXX Bank 2 - Sensor 1 Equivalence Ratio EQ Ratio 22 X.XXX Bank 2 - Sensor 2 Equivalence Ratio EQ Ratio 23 X.XXX...
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Generic (Global) OBD2 PID List Tool Display Unit Value PID Description MIL On Time hrs, min XXXX, XX Engine Run Time while MIL ON Monitor Status ICONS on Monitor Status this Driving Cycle Display O2S B1 S1 X.XXX Bank 1 - Sensor 1 O2S B1 S1 mA X.XXX Bank 1 - Sensor 1 O2S Current...
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Generic (Global) OBD2 PID List Tool Display Unit Value PID Description O2S Location O2S12 Oxygen Sensor, Bank 1, Sensor 2 O2S Location O2S21 Oxygen Sensor, Bank 2, Sensor 1 O2S Location O2S22 Oxygen Sensor, Bank 2, Sensor 2 O2S Location O2S31 Oxygen Sensor, Bank 3, Sensor 1 O2S Location...
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Generic (Global) OBD2 PID List Tool Display Unit Value PID Description STFT B2 S1 XXX.X Bank 2 - Sensor 1 STFT B2 S2 XXX.X Bank 2 - Sensor 2 STFT B2 S3 XXX.X Bank 2 - Sensor 3 STFT B2 S4 XXX.X Bank 2 - Sensor 4 STFT B3...
Glossary GLOSSARY OF TERMS AND ABBREVIATIONS GLOSSARY OF TERMS AND ABBREVIATIONS CARB – California Air Resources Board CCM – Central Control Module Computer Control System – An electronic control system, consisting of an on-board computer and related sensors, switches and actuators, used to ensure peak performance and fuel efficiency while reducing pollutants in the vehicle’s emissions.
Glossary GLOSSARY OF TERMS AND ABBREVIATIONS OBD 2 – On-Board Diagnostics Version 2 (also referred to as “OBD II”) On-Board Computer – The central processing unit in the vehicle’s computer control system. PCM – Powertrain Control Module Pending Code – A code recorded on the “first trip” for a “two-trip” code.
Warranty and Servicing LIMITED ONE YEAR WARRANTY The Manufacturer warrants to the original purchaser that this unit is free of defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and maintenance for a period of one (1) year from the date of original pur- chase.
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