Code Retrieval Procedures
Always refer to the vehicle's service manual for detailed testing instructions.Never replace a part based only on the DTC's code definition. Each DTC has a unique set of testing procedures, instructions, and flow charts that must be followed to confirm the location of the problem.
Alwaysobserve safety precautions whenever working on a vehicle and check your vehicle thoroughly for hazards before performing any test.
Step 1 - Locate the vehicle's 16-pin Data Link Connector (DLC).
| Some DLCs have a plastic cover that must be removed before connecting the Scan Tool. If the Scan Tool is manually turned on, turn it off before connecting to the DLC. |
Step 2 -Connect the code reader's cable connectorto the vehicle’s DLC.
The cable connector is keyed and will only fit one way.
If you have problems connecting the cable connector to the DLC, rotate the connector 180° and try again.
If you still have problems, check the DLC on the vehicle and on the code reader. Refer to your vehicle's service manual to properly check the vehicle's DLC.
After the code reader’s test connector is properly connected to the vehicle's DLC, the vehicle icon should display to confirm a good power connection.
Step 3 -Turn the ignition on. Do not start the engine.
| Turn on the Ignition but do not start the engine. |
Step 4 - When the code reader is properly connected to the vehicle’s DLC, the unit itself will automatically turn ON.
If the unit does not power on automatically, it may indicate there is no power present at the vehicle’s DLC connector. Check the fuse panel and replace any burned-out fuses.
If replacing the fuse(s) does not correct the problem, consult the vehicle’s repair manual to identify the proper computer (PCM) fuse/circuit, and perform any necessary repairs before proceeding.
After 4-5 seconds, the code reader will retrieve and display any diagnostic trouble codes that are in the vehicle's computer memory.
If an error is shown on the code reader’s LCD display, it indicates there is a communication problem. This means that the code reader is unable to communicate with the vehicle's computer. Do the following:
- Turn the ignition key off, wait 5 seconds, and turn the key back on to reset the computer.
- Make sure your vehicle is OBD2 compliant.
Step 5 -Read and interpret Diagnostic Trouble Codes using the LCD display and the green, yellow, and red LEDs.
The green, yellow, and red LEDs are used (with the display) as visual aids to make it easier to determine engine system conditions.
| Green LED –Indicates that all engine systems are OK and operating normally. All monitors on the vehicle are active and are performing their diagnostic testing, and no trouble codes are present. The message 0 DTC will show on the code reader’s LCD display for further confirmation. |
| Yellow LED – Indicates one of the following conditions: A. A pending code is present –If the yellow LED is lit, it may indicate the existence of a pending code. Check the code reader’s LCD display for confirmation. A pending code is confirmed by the presence of a numeric code and the word Pending on the Code Reader’s LCD display. If no pending code is shown, the yellow LED indicates monitor status. |
| B. Monitor Status –If the code reader’s LCD display shows the message 0 DTC (indicating there are no DTCs present in the vehicle's computer), but the yellow LED is lit, it indicates a Monitor Has Not Run status. This means that some of the monitors on the vehicle have not yet finished their diagnostic self-testing. This condition is confirmed by one or more blinking Monitor icons on the LCD display. A blinking Monitor icon means the Monitor has not yet run and finished its diagnostic self-testing. All monitor icons that are solid have completed their diagnostic self-testing. |
| C.Red LED –Indicates there is a problem with one or more of the vehicle's systems. The red LED is also used to show that DTC(s) are present (displayed on the code reader’s LCD display). In this case, the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Check Engine) on the vehicle's instrument panel will light steady. |
The code reader will display a code only if codes are present in the vehicle's computer memory. If no codes are present, a 0 will be displayed.
Step 6 - If more than one code is present, press and release the DTC button, as necessary, to display additional codes.
| If more than one code is present, press and release the DTC button, as necessary, to display additional codes. |
Step 7 - When the last retrieved DTC has been displayed and the DTC button is pressed, the code reader returns to the Priority code.
| When the last retrieved DTC has been displayed and the DTC button is pressed, the code reader returns to the Priority code (see next image). |
Did this answer your question? Thanks for the feedback There was a problem submitting your feedback. Please try again later.
Still need help? Contact Us Contact Us
