Actron 9620 User Manual

SFI or SEFI:

Sequential Fuel Injection or Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection. A fuel injection system that uses one or more injectors for each cylinder. The injectors are mounted in the intake manifold and are fired individually.

ST:

Short Term fuel trim.

TBI:

Throttle Body Injection. A fuel injection system having one or more injectors mounted in a centrally located throttle body, as opposed to positioning the injectors close to an intake valve port. TBI is also called Central Fuel Injection (CFI) in some vehicles.

TDC:

Top Dead Center. When a piston is at its uppermost position in the cylinder.

Throttle Body:

A device which performs the same function as a carburetor in a fuel injection system. On a throttle body injection (TBI) system, the throttle body is both the air door and the location of the fuel injectors. On port fuel injection systems (PFI, MPFI, SFI, etc.), the throttle body is simply an air door. Fuel is not added until the injectors at each intake port are activated. In each case, the throttle body is attached to the accelerator pedal.

TPS:

Throttle Position Sensor. Potentiometer-type sensor connected to the throttle shaft. Its voltage signal output increases as the throttle is opened. The PCM uses this signal to control many systems such as idle speed, spark advance, fuel delivery, etc.

TTS:

Transmission Temperature Sensor. A resistance sensor mounted in the transmission housing in contact with the transmission fluid. It sends a voltage signal to the PCM indicating the temperature of the transmission.

VECI:

Vehicle Emission Control Information. A decal located in the engine compartment containing information about the emission control systems found on the vehicle. The VECI is the authoritative source for determining whether a vehicle is OBD II-compliant.

VIN:

Vehicle Identification Number. This is the factory-assigned vehicle serial number. This number is stamped on a number of locations throughout the vehicle, but the most prominent location is on top of the dashboard on the drivers side, visible from outside the car. The VIN includes information about the car, including where it was built, body and engine codes, options, and a sequential build number.

VSS:

Vehicle Speed Sensor. Sends a frequency signal to the PCM. The frequency increases as the vehicle moves faster to give the PCM vehicle speed information used to determine shift points, engine load, and cruise control functions.

WOT:

Wide-Open Throttle. The vehicle operating condition brought about when the throttle is completely (or nearly) open. The PCM will typically deliver extra fuel to the engine and deenergize the A/C compressor at this time for acceleration purposes. The PCM uses a switch or the Throttle Position Sensor to identify the WOT condition.

9620 Global

ACTRON MANUFACTURING CO.

15825 Industrial Parkway

Cleveland, Ohio 44135-9946

USA

Internet and e-mail - http://www.actron.com

OBD II Scan Tool

Table of Contents

Vehicle ServiceInformation ...... 3

Safety Precautions .....................4

Section 1: Vehicle Computer

Systems------------- 5

1.1 Introduction .....................................5

1.1.1 What The Computer Controls .5

1.1.2 What Has Not Changed ..........5

1.1.3 Computer Control System ......5

1.2 Data Link ConnectorandLocation .6

1.3 OBD II Scan Tool Hookup ................ 6

1.3.1 Keyboard .................................7

1.3.2 Display .....................................7

1.3.3 Lists, Menus, and Questions ...7

1.4 Tool Setup .......................................8

1.4.1 Changing Measurement Units 8

1.4.2 Changing Display Contrast .....8

1.4.3 Displaying Tool Information .... 9

1.4.4 Program Mode ......................... 9

1.5 Personal Computer (PC) and

PrinterInterface.............................. 9

1.6 Replacing the Battery .....................9

1.7 AC Adapter ......................................9

Section 2: Diagnosing with

theScan Tool ---- 10

2.1 Preliminary Checks ..................... 10

2.2 Connecting the Scan Tool ............ 10

2.3 OBD II Functions List ..................... 11

2.3.1 I/M Readiness ........................11

2.3.2 Read Codes .......................... 12

2.3.3 Pending Codes ..................... 12

2.3.4 Erase Codes ......................... 13

2.3.5 View Data .............................. 13

2.3.6 View Freeze Data ................. 15

2.3.7 O2 Monitor Test ..................... 15

2.3.8 Non-Continuous Tests .......... 16

All information, illustrations and specifications contained in this manual are based on the latest information available from industry sources at the time of publication. No warranty (expressed or implied) can be made for its accuracy or completeness, nor is any responsibility assumed by Actron or anyone connected with it for loss or damages suffered through reliance on any information contained in this manual or misuse of accompanying product. Actron reserves the right to make changes at any time to this manual or accompanying product without obligation to notify any person or organization of such changes.

2.3.9 On-Board Systems ............... 17

2.3.10 Record Data .......................... 17

2.3.11 Vehicle Info ........................... 18

2.3.12 Modules Present ................... 19

2.3.13 Review Data .......................... 19

2.3.14 Print Data .............................. 20

Section 3: Diagnostic Trouble

Codes (DTC) ---- 22

3.1 DTC Format .................................. 22

3.2 Code Lookup ................................ 23

3.3 Diagnostic Trouble Code Ranges 24

Section 4: Help and Trouble-

shooting Tips ---- 25

4.1 How to Use Help ........................... 25

4.2 Scan Tool Problems ..................... 25

4.2.1 Scan Tool does not powerup: 25

4.2.2 Scan Tool does not Link

withvehicle:........................... 25

4.2.3 One or more modules drops

the communication link: ...... 26

4.2.4 Keyboard does not function

properly: ................................ 26

4.3 Tool Self-Tests .............................. 26

4.3.1 Display Test........................... 26

4.3.2 Keyboard Test....................... 26

4.3.3 Memory Test.......................... 27

4.3.4 Printer Test ............................ 27

4.4 Technical Support ........................ 27

Appendix A: Global OBD II PID

List & Definitions 28

Appendix B:Glossary & Defini-

tions ---------------- 31

M/T:

Manual transmission or manual transaxle.

MAF:

Mass Air Flow Sensor. Measures the amount and density of air entering the engine and sends a frequency or voltage signal to the PCM. The PCM uses this signal in its fuel delivery calculations.

MAP:

Manifold Absolute Pressure Sensor. Measures intake manifold vacuum or pressure and sends a frequency or voltage signal (depending on sensor type) to the PCM. This gives the PCM information on engine load for control of fuel delivery, spark advance, and EGR flow.

MAT:

Manifold Air Temperature sensor. A resistance sensor in the intake manifold that sends a voltage signal to the PCM indicating the temperature of the incoming air. The PCM uses this signal for fuel delivery calculations.

MIL:

Malfunction Indicator Lamp. The MIL is most commonly known as the Check Engine or Service Engine Soon light. A required on-board indicator to alert the driver of an emissionrelated malfunction.

Monitor:

A test performed by the on-board computer to verify proper operation of emission related systems or components.

MPFI or MFI:

Multi-Port Fuel Injection. MPFI is a fuel injection system using one (or more) injector(s) for each cylinder. The injectors are mounted in the intake manifold, and fired in groups rather than individually.

NOx:

Oxides of Nitrogen. A pollutant. The EGR system injects exhaust gases into the intake manifold to reduce these gases at the tailpipe.

O2S:

Oxygen Sensor. Generates a voltage of 0.6 to 1.1 volts when the exhaust gas is rich (low oxygen content). The voltage changes to 0.4 volts or less when the exhaust gas is lean (high oxygen content). This sensor only operates after it reaches a temperature of approximately 349°C (660°F). O2 sensors are usually found both upstream and downstream of the catalytic converter. The PCM uses these sensors to fine tune the air-fuel ratio and to monitor the efficiency of the catalytic converter. See Bank 1, Bank 2, Sensor 1, Sensor 2.

ODM:

Output Device Monitor.

OBD II:

On-Board Diagnostics, Second Generation. OBD II is a U.S. Government-mandated standard requiring all cars and light trucks to have a common data connector, connector location, communication protocol, DTCs and code definitions.

Sensor:

Any device that reports information to the PCM. The job of the sensor is to convert a parameter such as engine temperature into an electrical signal that the PCM can understand.

Sensor 1:

A standard term used to identify the location of oxygen sensors. Sensor 1 is located upstream of the catalytic converter. See O2S, Bank 1, Bank 2.

Sensor 2:

A standard term used to identify the location of oxygen sensors. Sensor 2 is located downstream of the catalytic converter. See O2S, Bank 1, Bank 2.

Solenoid:

A device consisting of an electrical coil which when energized, produces a magnetic field in a plunger, which is pulled to a central position. A solenoid may be used as an actuator in a valve or switch.

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ESC:

Electronic Spark Control. An ignition system function that warns the PCM when knock is detected. The PCM will then retard spark timing to eliminate the knocking condition.

EST:

Electronic Spark Timing. An ignition system that allows the PCM to control spark advance timing. The PCM determines optimum spark timing from sensor information  engine speed, throttle position, coolant temperature, engine load, vehicle speed, Park/Neutral switch position, and knock sensor condition.

EVAP:

Evaporative Emissions System.

Freeze Frame:

A block of memory containing the vehicle operating conditions for a specific time.

Ground (GND):

An electrical conductor used as a common return for an electric circuit(s) and with a relative zero potential (voltage).

Hall Effect Sensor:

Any of a type of sensor utilizing a permanent magnet and a transistorized Hall Effect switch. Hall Effect type sensors may be used to measure speed and position of the crankshaft or camshaft  for spark timing and fuel injector control.

HO2S: Heated Oxygen Sensor. See O2S.

IAC:

Idle Air Control. A device mounted on the throttle body which adjusts the amount of air bypassing a closed throttle so that the PCM can control idle speed.

ICM:

Ignition Control Module.

I/M:

Inspection and Maintenance. An emission control program.

ISC:

Idle Speed Control. A small electric motor mounted on the throttle body and controlled by the PCM. The PCM can control idle speed by commanding the ISC to adjust its position.

ISO:

International Organization of Standardization.

Knock:

Uncontrolled ignition of the air/fuel mixture in the cylinder. Also referred to as detonation or ping. Knock indicates extreme cylinder pressures or hotspots which are causing the air/ fuel mixture to detonate prematurely.

Knock Sensor (KS):

Used to detect engine detonation or knock. The sensor contains a piezoelectric element and is threaded into the engine block. Special construction makes the element sensitive only to engine vibrations associated with detonation.

KOEO:

Key On  Engine Off.

KOER:

Key On  Engine Running.

LCD:

Liquid Crystal Display.

LT:

Long Term fuel trim.

Vehicle ServiceInformation

The following is a list of publishers who have manuals containing electronic engine control diagnostic information. Some manuals may be available at auto part stores or local public libraries. For others, write for availability and pricing, specifying the make, model and year of vehicle.

Service Manuals:

Chilton Book Company

Chilton Way Radnor, PA 19089

Haynes Publications

861 Lawrence Drive Newbury Park, CA 91320

Cordura Publications

Mitchell Manuals, Inc. Post Office Box 26260 San Diego, CA 92126

Motors Auto Repair Manual

Hearst Company 250 W 55th Street New York, NY 10019

Suitable manuals have titles, such as:

 Electronic Engine Controls  Fuel Injection and Feedback Carburetors  Fuel Injection and Electronic Engine Controls  Emissions Control Manual

. . . or similar titles

Manufacturer Service Manuals:

General Motors:

Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GEO, GMC, Oldsmobile, & Pontiac

Helm Incorporated Post Office Box 07130 Detroit, MI 48207

Saturn

Adistra Corporation c/o Saturn Publications 101 Union St. Post Office Box 1000 Plymouth, MI 48170

Ford Motor Company:

Ford, Lincoln, & Mercury

Ford Publication Department Helm Incorporated Post Office Box 07150 Detroit, MI 48207

Chrysler Corporation:

Chrysler, Plymouth, & Dodge

Chrysler Motors Service Training 26001 Lawrence Avenue Center Line, MI 48015

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Safety Precautions

General Safety Guidelines to Follow When Working on Vehicles

To prevent accidents that could result in serious injury and/or damage to vehicle or test equipment, carefully follow these safety rules and test procedures at all times when working on vehicles:

 Always wear approved eye protection.  Always operate the vehicle in a well-ventilated area. Do not inhale exhaust

gases  they are very poisonous!

 Always keep yourself, tools and test equipment away from all moving or hot

engine parts.

 Always make sure the vehicle is in Park (Automatic transmission) or neutral

(manual transmission) and that the parking brake is firmly set. Block the drive wheels.

 Never lay tools on vehicle battery. You may short the terminals together

causing harm to yourself, the tools or the battery.  Never use scan tool if its internal circuitry has been exposed to any liquids.  Never smoke or have open flames near vehicle. Vapors from gasoline and/or

charging battery are highly flammable and explosive.  Never leave vehicle unattended while running tests.  Always keep a fire extinguisher suitable for gasoline/electrical/chemical fires

handy.  Always use extreme caution when working around the ignition coil, distributor

cap, ignition wires, and spark plugs. These components contain high voltage

when the engine is running.  When performing a road test, never operate the scan tool alone while driving

the vehicle. Always have one person drive the vehicle while an assistant

operates the tester.  Always turn ignition key OFF when connecting or disconnecting electrical

components, unless otherwise instructed.  Always follow vehicle manufacturers warnings, cautions and service proce-

dures.

WARNING!

Some vehicles are equipped with safety air bags. You must follow vehicle service manual cautions when working around the air bag components or wiring. If the cautions are not followed, the air bag may open up unexpectedly, resulting in personal injury. Note that the air bag can still open up several minutes after the ignition key is off (or even if the vehicle battery is disconnected) because of a special energy reserve module.

Closed Loop (CL):

A feedback system that uses the O2 Sensor(s) to monitor the results of combustion. Based on the signal(s) from the O2 sensor(s), the PCM modifies the air/fuel mixture to maintain optimum performance with lowest emissions. In closed loop mode, the PCM can fine tune control of a system to achieve an exact result.

CO:

Carbon Monoxide

Continuous Memory Codes: See Pending Codes.

CPS:

Crankshaft Position Sensor. Sends a frequency signal to the PCM. It is used to reference fuel injector operation and synchronize spark plug firing on distributorless ignition systems (DIS).

CTS:

Coolant Temperature Sensor. A resistance sensor that sends a voltage signal to the PCM indicating the temperature of the coolant. This signal tells the PCM whether the engine is cold or warm.

Data Link Connector (DLC):

Connector providing access and/or control of the vehicle information, operating conditions, and diagnostic information. Vehicles with OBD II use a 16-pin connector located in the passenger compartment.

Data Stream:

The actual data communications sent from the vehicles PCM to the data connector.

DEPS:

Digital Engine Position Sensor.

Detonation: See Knock.

DTC:

Diagnostic Trouble Code. An alphanumeric identifier for a fault condition identified by the On Board Diagnostic System.

DI/DIS:

Direct Ignition/Distributorless Ignition System. A system that produces the ignition spark without the use of a distributor.

Duty Cycle:

A term applied to signals that switch between on and off. Duty cycle is the percentage of time the signal is on. For example, if the signal is on only one fourth of the time, then the duty cycle is 25%. The PCM uses duty cycle type signals to maintain precise control of an actuator.

ECT: Engine Coolant Temperature sensor. See CTS.

EFI:

Electronic Fuel Injection. Any system where a computer controls fuel delivery to the engine by using fuel injectors.

EGR:

Exhaust Gas Recirculation. The PCM uses the EGR system to recirculate exhaust gases back into the intake manifold to reduce emissions. EGR Recirculation is used only during warm engine cruise conditions. EGR flow at other times can cause stalling or no starts.

EPA:

Environmental Protection Agency.

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Appendix B:Glossary & Definitions

Section 1: Vehicle Computer Systems

A/C:

Air Conditioning.

A/F:

Air/Fuel ratio. The proportion of air and fuel delivered to the cylinder for combustion. For example, an A/F ratio of 14:1 denotes 14 times as much air as fuel in the mixture. A typical ideal A/F ratio is 14.7:1.

AC Clutch Relay:

The PCM uses this relay to energize the A/C clutch, turning the A/C system on or off.

AC Pressure Sensor:

Measures air conditioning refrigerant pressure and sends a voltage signal to the PCM.

AC Pressure Switch:

A mechanical switch connected to the A/C refrigerant line. The switch is activated (sending a signal to the PCM) when the A/C refrigerant pressure becomes too low.

Actuator:

Actuators such as relays, solenoids, and motors allow the PCM to control the operation of vehicle systems.

Air Injection Reaction (AIR) System:

An emission control system operated by the PCM. During cold starts, an air pump injects outside air into the exhaust manifold to help burn hot exhaust gases. This reduces pollution and speeds warm-up of oxygen sensors and catalytic converters. After the engine is warm, the air will either be dumped back to the atmosphere (or into the air cleaner assembly) or sent to the catalytic converter.

Bank 1:

The standard way of referring to the bank of cylinders containing cylinder #1. In-line engines have only one bank of cylinders. Most commonly used to identify the location of oxygen sensors. See O2S, Sensor 1, Sensor 2.

Bank 2:

The standard way of referring to the bank of cylinders opposite cylinder #1. Found on V6, V-8, V-10, etc. and horizontally opposed engines. Most commonly used to identify the location of oxygen sensors. See O2S, Sensor 1,Sensor 2.

BARO: Barometric Pressure Sensor. See MAP Sensor. Boost Control Solenoid:

A solenoid that is energized by the PCM, in order to control supercharger boost pressure.

Brake Switch Signal:

An input signal to the PCM indicating that the brake pedal is being pressed. This signal is typically used to disengage Cruise Control systems and Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) solenoids. See also TCC.

CAM:

Camshaft Position Sensor. Sends a frequency signal to the PCM in order to synchronize fuel injector and spark plug firing.

CARB:

California Air Resources Board. Governing body for emissions control in California.

CKP REF:

Crankshaft Position Reference.

1.1 Introduction

This section describes the engine computer control system, types of sensors and how the computer controls engine fuel delivery, idle speed and timing. Additional information may be found in the technical support books at your local library or auto parts store. The more known about the computer system, the easier the problem can be diagnosed.

Computer controls were originally installed on vehicles to meet federal government regulations for lower emission levels and improved fuel economy. This began in the early 1980s when basic mechanical systems were no longer able to accurately control key engine parameters. A computer could be programmed to control the engine under various operating conditions, making the engine more reliable. While these early systems were very limited in scope of their diagnostics, providing only 10-14 trouble codes, they did help guide the vehicle repair process.

In 1994, manufacturers began equipping vehicles with a new class of computer technology which puts more processing power under dash than ever before. It is called On-Board Diagnostics version II, or OBD II. It is required on all vehicles sold in the US beginning January 1, 1996 (though most domestic manufacturers introduced it earlier than required), and offers increased system monitoring and diagnostic information. This new system stores a library of more than 650 general trouble codes and another approximately 400 manufacturer-specific codes, all of which can be accessed with the scan tool. These codes cover Body Systems (B-Codes), Chassis Systems (C-Codes), Communications Codes (U-Codes), and Powertrain Systems (P-Codes). Now, basic terms are standardized and all generic codes will share a common format and terminology that manufacturers and the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) designed.

The OBD II Professional Scan Tool performs OBD II functions on ALL makes of OBD II compliant vehicles from 1994 and up.

1.1.1 What The Computer Controls

The main control areas of the vehicle computer are fuel delivery, idle speed, spark advance, and emissions controls. Some on-board computers may also control the transmission, brakes, and suspension systems as well.

1.1.2 What Has Not Changed

A computer-controlled engine is very similar to the older, non-computerized engine. It is still an internal combustion engine with pistons, spark plugs, valves, and camshaft(s). The ignition, charging, starting, and exhaust systems are very similar as well. Test and repair of these systems are the same as before. The technical manuals for these components provide instruction on how to perform the tests. Additionally, compression gauges, vacuum pumps, engine analyzers, and timing lights will continue to be used.

1.1.3 Computer Control System

The vehicle on-board computer, or Powertrain Control Module (PCM), is the heart of the system. It is sealed in a metal box and connected to the rest of the engine by a wiring harness. The PCM is commonly located in the passenger compartment, behind the dashboard (kick panel position), although some manufacturers locate the PCM in the engine compartment. The PCM is programmed by the factory. The program is a complex list of lookup tables and instructions telling the computer how to control the engine based on various driving conditions. It does this using sensors to monitor what is happening and then provide feedback through a network of switches and actuators throughout the vehicle.

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1.2 Data Link ConnectorandLocation

Welcome To

The Global OBDII

SCANTOOL

Press HELP For Key | Button Information

Press ENTER To Cont

The tester communicates with the vehicle PCM via a data link connector (DLC)  also referred to as a J1962 connector. The term J1962 is taken from physical and electrical specification number assigned by SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers). A standardized DLC means all compliant vehicles will use the same DLC with the generic link information available on the same pins regardless of vehicle make or model. In addition to the connector definitions, is a guideline on where the connector is to be located in the vehicle. This guideline states that the DLC should be located under the dashboard on the driver side of the vehicle. However, not all OBD II DLCs are located under the dash on the driver side. If required, refer to vehicle service documentation for the DLC location.

DLC Location

1.3 OBD II Scan Tool Hookup

The OBD II cable attached to the scan tool fits the OBD II DLC. Because the OBD II J1962 connector contains dedicated pins for power and ground, only a single cable connection is required for both scan tool power and PCM communication.

Connect the scan tool to the DLC. This connection will provide power for the scan tool. The DLC maintains power even when the ignition is turned off. Therefore, connection to the battery is not required.

When the scan tool powers up, a series of screens are displayed. The screens start with a Welcome screen and end with a Key Button Help screen.

The screens between the Welcome screen and the Key Button Help screen are for tool self-tests and software ID. Refer to this software ID when contacting the Actron technical support line with a problem. To review the key button definitions, push the (HELP) key; otherwise, press ENTER to continue.

The scan tool requires a minimum of 8 volts to power up. If a problem occurs with powerup, review Section 4: Help and Troubleshooting Tips.

REL TPS (0 - 100%)

Relative Throttle Position is relative throttle position at normal position.

SECOND AIR (AIR_STAT: UPS, DNS or OFF)

Commanded Secondary Air Status is on newer vehicles and actuators to control pollution control.

UPS - UP STREAM module is demanding that secondary air be added at exhaust

manifolds

DNS - DOWN STREAM module is demanding secondary air be added at catalytic

converter

OFF - Module is demanding no secondary air to be added.

ST FTRMxy (-100 - 99.22%)

Short-term Fuel Trim Bank calculated value represents the short-term relation of fuel metering on a fuel-injected engine.

NOTE: Short-term Fuel Trim calculated value that has a positive percentage is a rich fuel

trim and if a negative percentage is present the fuel trim is lean.

ST FLTRMx (-100 - 99.2%)

Short-term Fuel Trim value represents the short-term relation of fuel metering on a fuelinjected engine.

NOTE: Short-term Fuel Trim value with a positive percentage is a rich fuel trim and if a negative

percentage is present the fuel trim is lean.

THR POS (0 - 100%)

Absolute Throttle Position is the position the throttle is located. The more the throttle is closed the less percent shown.

THROT CMD (0 - 100%)

Commanded Throttle Actuator Control is the position of the throttle. If throttle is closed the percent will be 0 and if wide open 100%.

TRIPS SNC CLR (0 - 255)

Number of warm-ups since diagnostic trouble codes cleared. Warm-up is when temperature of coolant rises to at least 22°C (40°F) from engine starting and reaching a minimum temperature of 70°C (160°F). If a diesel engine the engine minimum temperature is 60°C (140°F.)

NOTE: If there is more than 255 that the engine warms up the TRIPS SNC CLR will remain

at 255.

TROUB CODE (00 00 - FF FF)

Trouble Code Parameter will give the diagnostic trouble code that caused a freeze frame capture. This information is helpful in diagnosing the cause of a driveability. If no freeze frame data has been captured this PID will be zero.

VEH SPEED (0 - 255K/h) or (0 - 158mph)

Vehicle Speed shows the speed the vehicle is going.

VPWR (0 - 65.535V)

Control Module Voltage is the power input to the control module.

NOTE: 42-volt vehicles may utilise multiple voltages for different systems on the vehicle.

VPWR may be significantly different than battery voltage.

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