To prevent accidents that could possibly result in serious
injury and/or damage to vehicles and/or test equipment,
carefully follow all safety rules and test procedures when
working on vehicles.
Always wear ANSI approved eye protection.
Always operate the vehicle in a well-ventilated area. Do
not breath exhaust gases — they are very hazardous.
Always keep yourself, tools and test equipment away from
all moving or hot engine parts.
SF-1
Always make sure the vehicle is in Park (automatic
transmission) or Neutral (manual transmission).
Ensure the parking brake is firmly set.
Block the drive wheels.
Never leave vehicle unattended while testing.
Never lay tools on vehicle battery. You may short the
terminals together causing harm to yourself, the tools or
the battery.
Always use caution when working around the ignition coil,
distributor cap, ignition wires, and spark plugs. These
components can produce High Voltage while the engine
is running.
Battery electrolyte is sulfuric-acid and is extremely caustic.
If contacted, rinse with water or neutralize with a mild base
(i.e. baking soda). If contacted in eyes, flush with water
and call a physician immediately.
Never smoke or have open flames near vehicle. Vapors
from gasoline and the battery during charge are highly
flammable and explosive.
Never use the AutoScannerTM if internal circuitry has been
exposed to any moisture. Internal shorts could cause fire
and damage to the tool.
Always keep a fire extinguisher suitable for
gasoline/electrical/chemical fires readily available.
• When performing road tests, never operate the tool while driving
the vehicle. Always have one person drive the vehicle and an
assistant operate the AutoScanner
TM
.
• Always turn ignition key OFF when connecting or disconnecting
• 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’s battery is disconnected) because of a
special energy reserve module.
• Always follow vehicle manufacturer’s warnings, cautions and
service procedures.
SF-2
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1.1 Introduction
Congratulations!
You've purchased an automotive scanner that can unlock the fault
code information stored in the on-board computer(s) of your car or
light truck. This information gives you the power to identify and repair
problems that may arise with the operation of your vehicle's engine.
Cars and trucks cannot completely diagnose their problems, and no
scanner available can tell you with pinpoint accuracy what is wrong
with the vehicle.
Once you have retrieved the diagnostic information from the computer,
you have taken the first step in finding and fixing the problem. Now it
is time to continue with the rest of the diagnostic process.
Importantpointstoremember:
• Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) warn us of a symptom or
problem with a particular engine system, not a specific part.
• The computer can only report DTCs based on what its sensors
are telling it.
• Sometimes, sensors appear to be bad when in fact, they are not.
- A poor connection, broken wire or short circuit may be preventing
the sensor signal from reaching the computer.
- A malfunction in one system may cause a sensor in another
system to report a value that is too high or too low.
• We recommend the use of a vehicle specific service manual to
assist you with the diagnostic process.
• Some of the vehicle computer's sensors and actuators can be
pretty expensive; it is best to make sure they are defective prior
to replacing them!
1-1
Quick Start
The next step in the diagnostic process is to test systems and parts
that are suspected to be defective. This testing process may include:
• Sensors
• Fuel injection system
Even when working on modern, computer-controlled vehicles there is
no substitute for good old-fashioned troubleshooting.
Once you have isolated and repaired the failed problem(s), you can
use your AutoScanner to clear the codes from the computer's memory.
This will also turn off your Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL), or Check
Engine Light, and may reset all Inspection/Maintenance (I/M) monitor
statuses to “Not Ready”.
The following Quick Start section will help you begin to use your OBD II
AutoScanner right away. Subsequent sections of this manual contain
more detailed information to help you get the most out of your scanner.
If you have questions not covered in the manual, please call our
Technical Support line at 1-800-228-7667 (8:00 - 6:00 EST Monday Friday), or send an email to tech_support@actron.com.
• Ignition system
• Vacuum & Pressure systems
1.2 Quick Start
Connect the OBD II AutoScanner to the vehicle’s Data Link Connector
(DLC) which is normally located under the dash on the driver’s side.
Once the connection is made, the tool will turn on, boot, and then
display the Main Menu. If the display is hard to read, adjust the contrast
using the Tool Setup/Test function.
All AutoScanner functions can be performed with the Key On-Engine
Off (KOEO). The ERASE function cannot be done with the Key
On-Engine Running (KOER).
To retrieve Diagnostic Trouble Codes
(DTCs), press the READ key on the
AutoScanner. This function can be
performed with the KOEO or KOER.
Main Menu
1)Read Codes [
If DTCs are present, they will appear on the display. Use the ▲ or ▼
keys to view the codes. The definition will continuously scroll to the left if
it is longer than the display (20 characters). To freeze the scrolling message,
press and hold the ENTER key. When done, press the BACK key to return
to the Main Menu.
CAUTION! Avoid Cooling Fan! It May Turn On During Test.
!
Quick Start
1-2
To erase DTCs, press the ERASE
key on the AutoScanner. This
function must be performed with the
KOEO - Do not START engine.
Note: In addition to clearing DTCs, the Erase Codes function may
reset the status of the I/M System Monitors to “Not Ready.”
!
If DTCs are found, the tool will display the quantity and ask the user
“Erase Codes? (Y/N).” Pressing the NO key will display the message
“Cancelled, Erase Not Performed.” Pressing the YES key will display
a scrolling message on the bottom line. Press the BACK key to return
to the Main Menu.
“Hard” codes are codes that can be removed only by repairing
the faults that they cause; therefore, hard codes will remain in
!
the computer’s memory until the condition is repaired.
The MILStatus function displays the status of the computer module
that commanded the MIL to turn on. If the MIL Status is ON and the
MIL is not illuminated with the engine running, then a problem exists
in the MIL circuit.
Select the MIL Status function and
press the ENTER key. The MIL
Status of the computer will display
on the AutoScanner. Press the
BACK key to return to the Main
Menu.
Main Menu
2)Erase Codes
Main Menu
3)MIL Status
The I/M (Inspection and Maintenance) Monitors function displays the
state of the vehicle’s OBD II Monitors. Monitors test the operation of
emission related systems or components and detect out-of-range
values. The vehicle may have to be operated under certain driving
conditions to initiate a monitor.
Select I/MMonitors from the MainMenu and press the ENTER key.
Use the
the list. Note the Monitors present
and their status. When done, press
the BACK key to return to the MainMenu
Detailed instructions are provided in Section 3 and OBD II background
information is provided in Appendix B.
▲ or ▼ keys to scroll through
Main Menu
4)I/M Monitors
.
Quick Start
1-3
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2.1 Tool Features
The
OBD II AutoScanner
service industry to help diagnose vehicles and assist in troubleshooting
procedures. The AutoScanner will perform OBD II functions on
compliant vehicles 1994 and newer. No batteries are needed; power is
provided from the vehicle’s data link connector (DLC)
B
was developed by experts in the automotive
c
ic
s
.
BOBDIIconnector&
cablewithstrain-relief.
CTwo-lineLCDdisplay.
DREADkey-performs
theReadCodes
function.
EERASEkey-performs
theEraseCodes
function.
FV YESkey-toscroll
upandanswerYES.
GW NOkey-toscroll
downandanswerNO.
HBACKkey-gotothe
previousscreenor
level.
IENTERkey-selects
displayeditems.
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2.1.1
The AutoScanner uses a two-line liquid crystal display (LCD). The top
line contains 10 characters to show function headings, numbers and
user prompts. The bottom line contains 20 characters to display
selections and code information. Messages longer than the lines will
scroll continuously across the display from right to left. Display
contrast adjustment is accessed from the Tool Setup/Test menu.
Display
2.1.2
Connects the AutoScanner to the vehicle for power and
communication. The AutoScanner will automatically communicate
with the vehicle using a protocol built into the software
After initiating a function, the
AutoScanner will link with the
vehicle.
2.1.3
Do not use solvents such as alcohol to clean the keypad or display.
Use a mild nonabrasive detergent and a soft cotton cloth. Do not soak
the keypad as water might find its way inside the tool.
2.2
The AutoScanner is designed for ease
in navigation and operation. All menu
and lists operate the same way. Five
functions are selectable by the user. The
Read Codes
can be run using the keys identified in
Section 2.1-Tool Features
Use the
ENTER
item. An arrow icon will be displayed
on the right of the bottom line to
indicate the scrolling direction
available; up (
To return to previous screens, press the
OBD II (J1962) Connector
Cleaning
Lists and Menus
and
Erase Codes
▲
or ▼ keys to scroll and the
key to select the function or
]
), down ([) or both ().
function
.
Linking
* Please Wait *
1)Read Codes
2)Erase Codes
3)MIL Status
4)I/M Monitors
5)Tool Setup/Test
1)Adjust Contrast
2)Display Test
3)Keypad Test
4)Memory Test
5)SW ID
Main Menu
1)Read Codes [
BACK
key.
The AutoScanner may ask a question which requires a YES or NO
response from the user. Press either the
condition arises.
Tool Basics
YES
key or NO key when the
2-2
2.3
Diagnostic Link Connector and Location
The AutoScanner communicates with
the vehicle’s computer modules via a
Diagnostic Link Connector (DLC).
OBD II regulations define the physical
and electrical specification for the DLC.
Certain pins in the connector are dedicated for power
and ground. The DLC is also referred to as a J1962 connector. The term
J1962 is taken from a physical and electrical specification number
assigned by SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers). The standard
ensures that all vehicles with OBD II systems use the same connector.
The J1962 specification
defines the location of the
DLC in the vehicle. The DLC
should be located under the
dashboard on the driver side
of the vehicle. If the DLC is
not located under the
dashboard as stated, a
decal describing its location
should be attached to the
dashboard in the area the
DLC should have been
located.
2.4 Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) consist of a three-digit code preceded
by an alphanumeric designator. When the on-board computer recognizes
and identifies a problem, a DTC for that fault is stored in memory. These
codes are intended to help the user determine the root cause of a problem.
The format and type of DTCs is summarized on the next page.
J2012 is a standard for all DTCs established by the Society of Automotive
Engineers (SAE). Codes and the definitions assigned by this specification
are known as Generic (or Global) OBD II codes. OBD II requires
compliance of this standard, and has made it a standard for all cars, light
trucks, APVs, MPVs, and SUVs sold in the U.S. from Model Year 1996
and newer. Codes not reserved by the SAE are reserved for the
manufacturer and referred as Manufacturer Specific.
Periodically, new DTCs are developed and approved by the SAE. Upon
approval of the new codes, the AutoScanner’s software will be updated.
There is no established time period that updates are made to the database.
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For more information regarding DTC updates, please call our Technical
Support line at
send an email to
This manual provides step-by-step procedures to operate the OBD II
AutoScanner. Specific diagnostics for the vehicle may be found in
applicable service manuals listed in Section 2.6. Information about
OBD II can be found in Appendix B - OBD II Background.
Warnings,CautionsandNotes
These are identified with the following symbols. Please read and
understand the Safety Precautions and adhere to them while testing
the vehicle.
!
!
!
2-4
The Warning symbol identifies hazards that may cause
serious harm and injury.
The Caution symbol alerts the operator of potential
noncritical harm or damage to equipment.
This symbol identifies special information.
Tool Basics
2.6 Vehicle Service Information
Vehicle service manuals containing additional diagnostic information
are available at most auto parts stores or the local library. If unable to
locate them at those locations, write the below listed publishers for
availability and pricing. Please be sure to specify the make, model and
year of vehicle.
Vehicle Service Manuals
Chrysler, Plymouth, Dodge,
Jeep, Eagle:
Dyment Distribution Service
Publications
12200 Alameda Drive
Strongsville, OH 44136
www.techauthority.daimlerchrysler.com
Ford, Lincoln & Mercury:
Ford Publication Department
Helm Incorporated
P.O. Box 07150
Detroit, MI 48207
www.helminc.com
Cadillac,Chevrolet,
Buick,
GEO, GMC, Oldsmobile,
Pontiac;
Honda,Isuzu,Suzuki,
Acura,
Kia, Hyundai & Saab:
HelmIncorporated
P.O. Box 07130
Detroit, MI 48207
www.helminc.com
Saturn:
Adistra Corporation
c/o Saturn Publications
101 Union St.
P.O. Box 1000
Plymouth, MI 48170
ChiltonBookCompany
Chilton Way
Radnor, PA 19089
www.edmunds.com/edweb/Chilton
Mitchell Manuals, Inc.
CorduraPublications
P.O. Box 26260
San Diego, CA 92126
www.mitchellrepair.com
HaynesPublicationsInc.
861 Lawrence Drive
Newbury Park, CA 91320
JENDHAM,Inc.
13230 Evening Creek Drive,
Suite #202
San Diego, CA 92128
www.jendham.com
Motor’sAutoRepairManual
Hearst Company
250 W. 55th Street
New York, NY 10019
Suitable manuals have titles such as:
- “Electronic Engine Controls”
- “Fuel Injection and Electronic Engine Controls”
- “Emissions Control Manual”
... or similar titles
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3.1 AutoScanner Connection and Power-Up
Locate the DLC. If not found, refer to
Section 2.3.
The AutoScanner will not harm the
vehicle.
Remove the protective cap and connect
the AutoScanner’s 16-pin J1962
connector. The AutoScanner will
immediately power-up.
The AutoScanner displays its name for a brief period and then begins
“Loading Software.”
OBD II
Auto ScannerLoading Software.........
If the
▲ key is pressed and held while software is loading, the
Software ID will display until the key is released, and then the Main
Menu will display.
Main Menu
Software ID: 392A
When the Main Menu displays, the AutoScanner is ready to use.
Refer to Section 3.6 - Tool Setup/Test and Section 4 -
Troubleshooting if problems occur.
More information about OBD II can be found in Appendix B- OBD II
Background.
1)Read Codes [
Using the Tool
3-1
3.2 Read Codes
The ReadCodes function retrieves
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
from the vehicle’s computer modules.
This function can be performed with
the KOEO or KOER.
There are two types of codes, Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) codes
and Pending codes. An icon (
are Pending codes.
MILCodes: These codes cause the computer to illuminate the MIL
when an emission related or driveability fault occurs. The MIL is also
known as the "service engine soon" or "check engine lamp”. The
computer will illuminate the MIL when the engine is running and
remain in the vehicle’s memory until the fault is repaired.
PendingCodes: These codes are also referred as “continuous
monitor” and “maturing codes”. An intermittent fault will cause the
computer to store a code in memory. If the fault does not occur within
40 warm-up cycles, the code will be cleared from memory. If the
fault occurs a specific number of times, the code will mature into a
DTC and the MIL will turn on.
Changing any part without first isolating the circuit or system may
result in the replacement of good components.
!
) will be displayed next to DTCs that
Main Menu
1)Read Codes [
Beforeperformingthisfunction,readandunderstandthe Safety
Precautions and Section 2 - Tool Basics.
!
CAUTION! Avoid Cooling Fan! It May Turn On During Test.
!
Press the READ key to initiate the
Read Codes function. The
AutoScanner will retrieve the DTCs
stored in the vehicle’s computer
module(s). This function can also be
run by selecting Read Codes from the Main Menu.
If aLinkError message displays, make sure the OBD II
connector is securely attached, and the ignition key is ON. Cycle
!
the ignition key to OFF for 10 seconds, then ON. This may be
required to reset the computer. If required, select “Yes” to try
again. If the problem still exists, refer to Section 4:Troubleshooting.
Using the Tool
Reading
* Data From Vehicle *
3-2
If one DTC is retrieved, the AutoScanner will display the DTC number
and type (MIL or pending) on the top line, and the definition on the
bottom. If more than one DTC is present, the top line will also display
the code index (n/x), i.e. 1 of 3. This and the DTC number will alternate
on the display while the bottom line shows the definition.
P0452
EVAP Emission Cont [
If the definition is longer than the display, it will continuously scroll to
the left. To freeze the scrolling message, press and hold the ENTER
key. Use the
BACK key to return to the Main Menu.
• Definitions for Generic (or Global) DTCs will be displayed on the
bottom line. These definitions can be found in the vehicle’ service
manual (refer to Section 2.6 - VehicleServiceInformation or on the enclosed product CD).
If no DTCs are present, the message
“PASS, No Codes Returned” will
display. Press the BACK key to
return to the Main Menu.
!
▲ or ▼ keys to view each DTC. When done, press the
Do not disconnect the AutoScanner until codes have been
recorded. When power is removed, the AutoScanner’s memory
is cleared.
1 of 3
ion Control System [
PASS
No Codes Returned
3.3 Erase Codes
The EraseCodes function deletes the DTCs from the vehicle’s
computer memory. Perform this function only after the systems have
been checked completely and DTCs have been documented. This
function should be performed with KOEO - Do not START engine.
After servicing the vehicle, delete the stored DTCs and verify no codes
have been reset. If DTCs return, the problem has not been corrected
or other faults are present.
In addition to clearing DTCs, the Erase Codes function resets
the status of the I/M System Monitors to “Not Ready.”
!
3-3
Using the Tool
To EraseCodes, press the ERASE
key. This function can also be run by
selecting Erase Codes from the Main Menu.
Before erasing codes, the AutoScanner will perform the Read Codes
function and display the number of DTCs stored in the vehicle’s
computer memory.
CAUTION! Avoid Cooling Fan! It May Turn On During Test.
!
If no DTCs are present, then press
ENTER to return to the Main Menu.
If DTCs are found, the tool will
display the quantity and ask the user
“Erase Codes? (Y/N).” Pressing the
NO key will display the message
“Cancelled, Erase Not Performed.”
Press the BACK key to return to the Main Menu.
Pressing the YES key will display a
scrolling message on the bottom
line. Turn key On, engine Off and
then press the ENTER key.
Main Menu
2)Erase Codes
No Codes
Press ENTER To Exit
5 Codes
Erase Codes? (Y/N)
Verify Engine Off, Key
The AutoScanner will perform Read Codes again to check the number
of DTCs erased.
If all DTCs have been erased, a
message “No Codes Remain (Press
ENTER)” will scroll across the
bottom line.
If DTCs still exist, the number will be displayed. The faults must be
repaired to remove these DTCs. Press ENTER to return to the Main
Menu.
“Hard” codes are codes that can be removed only by repairing
the faults that they cause; therefore, hard codes will remain in
!
the computer’s memory until the condition is repaired.
Using the Tool
ERASE DONE
No Codes Remain (Pres
3-4
3.4 MIL Status
The MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) Status function displays the
state of the computer module that commanded the MIL to turn on. A
request is sent to the computer module(s) to state whether they are
commanding the MIL to turn ON. If the MIL Status is ON and the MIL
is not illuminated with the engine running, then a problem exists in the
MIL circuit. Refer to “Diagnostic Circuit Check” in the service repair
manual.
Some manufacturers will turn the MIL Off if a certain number of
drive cycles occur without the same fault being detected. The
!
DTCs related to a MIL are erased from the computer’s memory
after 40 warm-up cycles if the same fault is not detected.
Select the MIL Status function and
press the ENTER key.
The MILStatus will display on the
top line and a scrolling message on
the bottom indicating if the MIL lamp
should be ON or OFF.
Main Menu
3)MIL Status
MIL - ON
MIL Lamp Should be On
When done, press the BACK key to return to the Main Men
u.
3.5 I/M Monitors
The I/M (Inspection and Maintenance) Monitors function displays the
state of the vehicle’s OBD II Monitors. Monitors test the operation of
emission related systems or components and detect out-of-range
values. The vehicle may have to be operated under certain driving
conditions to initiate a monitor.
Using the Tool
3-5
Currently, there are eleven OBD II Monitors defined and required by
C
($0E)
the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), but not all monitors
are supported by all vehicles. The OBD II monitors and their
abbreviation are listed below.
Abbreviation
Misfire ..................... Misfire
Fuel Sys ................... Fuel System
Comprehens ............. Comprehensive Components
Catalyst................... Catalyst
Heated Cat .............. Heated Catalyst
Evap Sys ................... Evaporative System
Sec Air ...................... Secondary AIR
A/C Refrig .............. Air Conditioning Refrigerant
O2 Sensor................. Oxygen Sensor
HO2 Sensor .............. Oxygen Heater Sensor
EGR Sys ...................... Exhaust Gas Recirculation System
Select I/MMonitors from the Main
Menu and press the ENTER key.
The top line will display the I/M
Monitor and the second line will
display its status. Use the
keys to scroll through the monitors.
• A status of “Ready” means that the required driving conditions
for that monitor have been meet and it passed.
• A status of “Not Ready” means that the required driving
conditions for that monitor have not been met or it did not pass.
• A status of “Not Applicable (N/A)” means the vehicle does not
support that monitor.
Note the Monitors present and their status. When done, press the
BACK key to return to the Main Menu
Definition
omprehens
Comprehens($1F)
Main Menu
Comprehens($D1)
4)I/M Monitors
▲ or ▼
Fuel Sys
Ready
.
3.6 Tool Setup/Test
The Tool Setup/Test functions allow
the user to adjust the display’s
contrast and perform self-tests.
Using the Tool
Main Menu
5)Tool Setup/Test ]
3-6
3.6.1 Changing Display Contrast
The contrast is displayed as a percent value ranging from 100% to
5% and can be changed by 5% intervals .
In the Tool Setup/Test menu, the
first function is Adjust Contrast.
Press the ENTER key and then use
the
▲ or ▼ keys to increase or
decrease the contrast. Holding
down the
steps. When done, press the ENTER key to return to the Tool Setup/Test menu.
Contrast settings are not saved after the tool is turned OFF. Contrast
is reset to the manufacturers setting when powered-up.
!
This is a self-test to inspect the AutoScanner’s LCD display. The
test will turn every pixel black.
Select DisplayTest from the ToolSetup/Test menu and press
ENTER.
The display will toggle between the two following screens every
3 seconds. Look for missing spots in the solid black characters.
When done, press the BACK key to return to the Tool Setup/Test
menu.
▲ or ▼ keys changes the contrast in that direction in 5%
To quickly change the contrast after powering the AutoScanner,
press the ▼ key four (4) times and then the ENTER key twice.
3.6.2 Display Test
][ Change
90% ENTER When Done
Tool Setup
2)Display Test
LCD Test
Press BACK To Quit
3.6.3 Keypad Test
The KeypadTest is used to check the functionality of the
AutoScanner’s Keypad.
Select KeypadTest from the Tool Setup/Test menu and press the
ENTER key.
Tool Setup
3)Keypad Test
3-7
Using the Tool
Each time you press a key, its name
should appear on the display. For
example, if you press the
key, the screen will display
“UP / YES.” If key’s name does not
display, then the key is not working. Press the other keys to verify
proper operation.
Check the BACK key last. When
the BACK key is pressed, the
AutoScanner will return to the Tool Setup/Test menu. If you are not
returned to this menu, then the
BACK key is not working.
3.6.4 Memory Test
If the AutoScanner has trouble performing functions, the Memory
Test should be performed.
From the Tool Setup/Test menu,
select the Memory Test option and
press ENTER to begin.
As the memory is tested, its address is displayed on the bottom line.
After the memory test is done, either a “TEST PASS” or “TEST FAIL”
message is displayed.
▲ /YES
ROM Test
Testing Addr a500
UP / YES
Press Any Key
BACK
Leaving Keypad Test
Tool Setup
4)Memory Test ]
TEST PASS
Press Any Key
Press any key to return to the Tool Setup/Test menu.
3.6.5 Software Identification (SW ID)
The Software Identification is needed when contacting customer
support. Note this in the manual for reference.
From the Tool Setup/Test menu, select the SW ID option and press ENTER. Note this in the manual for reference.
Tool Setup
5)SW ID ]
Press any key to return to the Tool Setup/Test menu.
Using the Tool
SW ID: 47H5
Press Any Key
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4.1 Vehicle Inspection
Many problems can be found by performing a visual and “hands-on”
under-the-hood inspection before starting any diagnostic procedure.
• Has the vehicle been serviced recently?
Sometimes things are reconnected in the
wrong place, or not at all.
• Do not take shortcuts. Inspect hoses and
wiring which may be difficult to see because
of location (under air cleaner housing,
alternators and similar components).
• Inspect the air cleaner and ductwork for
defects.
• Check sensors and actuators for
damage.
• Inspect all vacuum hoses for:
- Correct routing. Refer to vehicle
service manual, or Vehicle Emission
Control Information (VECI) decal
located in the engine compartment.
- Pinches and kinks.
- Splits, cuts or breaks.
• Inspect electrical wiring for:
- Damaged insulation caused by sharp
objects (a common problem) or by hot
surfaces such as engine and exhaust
manifold.
- Corroded and broken wires.
4-1
Troubleshooting
• Carefully inspect electrical connectors for:
- Corrosion or foreign debris on pins.
- Bent or damaged pins.
- Recessed contacts not seated properly
in housing.
- Bad wire crimps to terminals.
Connector problems are common in vehicles. Inspect carefully.
Some connectors use a special grease, called dielectric grease,
!
on the contacts to prevent corrosion. Do not remove. If required,
apply more grease to the connector. The grease can be obtained
from a dealership or auto parts store.
4.2 AutoScanner Does Not Power Up
• Make sure the AutoScanner’s DLC is connected correctly to the
vehicle’s DLC. Verify the pins are clean and fully seated in the DLC.
4
(GND)
• The AutoScanner requires a
minimum of 8 volts between pin
16 (BAT+) and pin 4 (GND) to
power up. Use the flowchart
provided below to troubleshoot.
WARNING! Never Lay Tools On Vehicle Battery. You May Short
The Terminals Together Causing Harm To Yourself, The Tools
!
Or The Battery.
AutoScanner will not
power up.
Is
battery
charged?
PIN 16 (BAT+)
fully
NO
PIN
Charge battery.
Measure Voltage
between Pins 16 and 4.
Above 8V?
YES
Contact Actron.
Troubleshooting
Measure resistance
between Pin 4 and
NO
Open exists in power
circuit. Check for a blown
fuse or an open wire. Refer
to a service manual.
YES
frame ground.
less than
5
ohms?
YES
NO
Repair Ground
circuit.
Refer to a
service manual.
4-2
4.3 Link Errors or Erroneous Data
A LinkError occurs if the vehicle’s
computer(s) stops communicating
with the AutoScanner. When this
happens, the AutoScanner prompts
the user to try again. Press the YES
key to try again or the NO key to return to the Main Menu.
If the AutoScanner displays Link Errors when attempting to read or
erase codes, check the following:
• Verify ignition key is ON - not in the
ACCESSORIES position.
• Make sure the AutoScanner’s cable is
securely connected to the vehicle’s DLC.
• Examine the DLC closely and check for
cracked or recessed pins, or for any
substance that could prevent a good
electrical connection.
•Verify that the vehicle you are testing is an OBD II compliant
vehicle. Just because it has the OBD II J1962 DLC does not
mean the vehicle is OBD II compliant. Inspect the vehicle’s
VECI decal for a statement of OBD II compliance.
• Test for continuity between the DLC wiring and the computer. In
an extreme case there may be a broken wire.
• With the KOEO, check the vehicle for blown fuses . The computer
and DLC usually use separate fuses. If the fuse for the computer
fuse is blown, it cannot transmit data. The fuses may be located
on the fuse block in the passenger compartment.
• Make sure the computer has a good ground. If the computer has
a ground directly to the case, clean the connection and apply a
conductive (dielectric) grease to the mating surfaces.
• With the KOEO, verify the battery voltage is at least 10.5V; the
minimum voltage to power the computer.
• As a last resort, the computer may be defective. Refer to the
vehicle service manual to diagnose the computer.
Link Error
Try Again?
4.4 Technical Support
If the AutoScanner is not working correctly after the checks and
corrections above, contact technical support personnel at
1-800-228-7667 (8:00 - 6:00 EST Monday - Friday), or send an email
to tech_support@actron.com. Be prepared to provide the
AutoScanner’s Software ID.
Electronic Spark Timing. An ignition
system that allows the PCM to control
spark advance timing. The PCM
determines optimum spark timing from
sensor information
To pDeadCenter.Whenapistonisat
itsuppermostpositioninthecylinder.
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.
Glossary
TPS:
ThrottlePositionSensor.
Potentiometer-type sensor connectedto
thethrottleshaft.Itsvoltagesignal
outputincreasesasthethrottleis
opened.ThePCMusesthissignalto
controlmanysystemssuchasidle
speed,sparkadvance,fueldelivery,
etc.
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 de-energize 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.
A-5
B
x
i
d
n
pe
p
A
I
I
D
B
O
t
u
o
b
A
OBD II
In 1994, manufacturers began equipping vehicles with a new class of computer
technology which puts more processing power in the vehicle than ever before. It
is called On-Board Diagnostics, Second Generation (OBD II) and offers increased
system monitoring and diagnostic information. Beginning January 1, 1996,
vehicles sold in the U.S. are required to be OBD II compliant. However, a few
vehicles were exempt since no changes were made to the engine. Most domestic
manufacturers began using this system on some vehicles beginning as early as
1994.
OBD II systems are designed to meet or exceed standards and regulations to
improve air quality. These standards and regulations are primarily set forth by the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Clean Air Act of 1990. Most of the
standards and regulations were developed by the California Air Resources Board
(CARB). OBD II systems are unique in that they possess the capability of
monitoring the performance of emission related systems and their components;
to detect hard and intermittent faults that may cause a vehicle to pollute.
This new system stores a large library of general trouble codes along with
manufacturer-specific codes, some of which can be accessed with the tool. These
codes cover:
B-Codes . . . . . . . BodySystems
C-Codes . . . . . ChassisSystems
Now, basic terms are standardized and all generic (global) codes share a common
format and terminology established by the manufacturers and the Society of
Automotive Engineers (SAE).
Basics of Computer-Controlled Vehicles
This section explains the engine computer control system, the types of sensors
and how the computer controls engine fuel delivery, idle speed and timing.
Additional information may be found in technical support books at your local library
or auto parts store. The more you know about the computer system, the better
you can diagnose vehicle computer problems.
Computer
regulations for lower emissions 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 the scope of their control, providing only
10 to 14 trouble codes, they did help guide the vehicle repair process.
Today,
efficient than ever before.
U-Codes . NetworkCommunications
P-Codes . . . . . . PowertrainSystems
controls were originally installed on vehicles to meet federal government
computer controls have made cars and trucks faster, cleaner, and more
B-1
About OBD II
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