For your safety, read this manual thoroughly before operating your
Scan Tool. Always refer to and follow safety messages and test
procedures provided by the manufacturer of the vehicle or eq uipment
being tested.
The safety messages presented below and throughout this user’s
manual are reminders to the operator to exercise extreme care when
using this test instrument.
Read All Instructions
Read, understand and follow all safety messages and instructions in
this manual and on the test equipment. Safety messages in this section
of the manual contain a signal wor d with a three-p art message and, in
some instances, an icon.
Safety Messages
Safety messages are provided to help prevent personal injury and
equipment damage. All safety messages are introduced by a signal
word. The signal word indicates the level of the hazard in a situation.
The types of safety messages are.
Indicates a possible hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, will result in death or serious injury to
operator or bystanders.
Indicates a possible hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, could result in death or serious injury to
operator or bystanders.
Indicates a possible hazardous situation which, if not
avoided, may result in moderate or minor injury to
operator or bystanders.
Indicates a condition which, if not avoided, may result
in damage to test equipment or vehicle.
Page 6
Safety Precautions
!
Type Styles Used:
Safety messages contain three different type styles.
• Normal type states the hazard.
• Bold type states how to avoid the hazard.
• Italic type states the possible consequences of not avoiding the
hazard.
Icons used:
An icon, when present, gives a graphical description of a po te nt ial
hazard.
Example:
Engine systems can malfunction expelling fuel, oil
vapors, hot steam, hot toxic exhaust gases, acid,
refrigerant and other debris.
Safety goggles and protective gloves must be worn
by the operator and any byst anders. Even if everyday
eyeglasses have impact resistant lenses, they are
NOT safety glasses.
•Avoid making an accidental connection between the
battery terminals. Do not place uninsulated metal
tools on the battery.
•When removing battery cables, remove the gro und
cable first.
•Avoid sparks when connecting or disconnecting
power leads to the battery.
•Make sure ignition is off, headlights and other
accessories are off and vehicle doors are closed
before disconnecting the battery cables.
-
This also helps prevent damage to on-board computer systems.
•Always disconnect the battery ground connections
before servicing electrical system components.
Explosion can cause injury.
Risk of poisoning.
•Use this Scan Tool in locations with mechanical
ventilation providing at least 4 air changes per hour .
Engine exhaust contains odorless gas which can be
lethal.
•Route the exhaust outside while testing with the
engine running.
•Block drive wheels before performing a test with
engine running.
•Unless instructed otherwise:
- set parking brake
- put gear selector in neutral for manual transmissions
- put gear selector in park for automatic transmissions
- disconnect release mechanism on the automatic
parking brake release for testing and reconnect when
testing is completed.
• Do not leave a running engine unattended.
A moving vehicle can cause injury.
Risk of equipment or circuit damage.
•Unless specifically directed by manufacturer, make
sure ignition is off before connecting or
disconnecting connectors or any vehicle electrical
terminals.
•Do not create a short between b attery terminals with
a jumper wire or tools.
Improper equipment use can cause equipme nt or circu it
damage.
Misdiagnosis may lead to incorrect or improper repair
and/or adjustment.
•Do not rely on erratic, questionable, or obviously
erroneous test information or results.
- If test information or results are erratic, questionable,
or obviously erroneous, make sure all connections
and data entry information are correct and test
procedures were performed correctly.
- If test information or results are still suspic ious, do
not use them for diagnosis.
Improper repair and/or adjustment may cause vehicle o r
equipment damage or unsafe operation.
Some vehicles are equipped with air bags.
•Follow service manual warnings when working
around air bag components or wiring.
- If service manual instructions are not followed, an air
bag may deploy unexpectedly, resulting in injury.
- Note an air bag can still deploy several minutes after
ignition key is off (or even if vehicle battery is
disconnected) because of a special energy reserve
module.
This manual contains instructions for the use and setup of your Scan T ool. A
table of contents and glossary are provided to make this manual easy to use.
Some of the information shown in text or illustrations is obtained using optional
equipment. A Sales Representative can determine option availability.
This section contains a list of conventions used.
Safety Messages
Refer to Safety Precautions on page Safety - i.
Check Note
A check note provides additional information about the subject in the preceding
paragraph.
Example:
✓ English is the default measurement unit.
Equipment Tips and Lists
Equipment tips and lists provide information that applies to specific equipment.
Each tip is introduced by this icon
Example:
❒ Observe all vehicle and/or equipment manufacturer’s cautions and
warnings when testing with the Sca n Tool.
❒ for easy identification.
1
Equipment Damage
Situations arise during testing that could damage the vehicle or the test
equipment. The word IMPORTANT signals these situations.
Failure to follow these instructions could damage the Scan Tool.
Page 16
Using This Manual
OBD II Function List
=====================
I/M Readiness
Read Codes
Pending Codes
Erase Codes
State OBD Check
View Data
Functions and Selections
Diagnostic and tool functions performed by the Scan Tool are highlighted in
bold.
Example:
The View Data function allows you to view the vehicle’s parameter identification
(PID) data in real time.
1
Menus
The menus on the Scan T ool display are referenced in the procedures and are
highlighted in bold-italic text.
Example:
When the OBDII Function List menu displays, the Scan Tool is ready for use.
Questions and Responses
Messages and user responses are CAPITALIZED.
Example:
The Scan Tool displays the pending DTCs or a message stating SYSTEM PASS: NO FAULT DETECTED.
Manual References
Used to reference other sections of the manual. References include the Title
and page number (section-page).
Example:
For more information on DTCs, refer to “OBD II Diagnostic Trouble Codes
(DTCs)” on page 2-15
Screens
Certain help messages, information, and data that are displayed on the scan
tool are also shown in graphical text boxes. The screens are presented as
examples and may change as the software is updated.
The Scan Tool was developed by experts in the automotive service
industry to help diagnose vehicles and assist in troubleshooting
procedures.
The Scan Tool monitors vehicle events and retrieves codes from the
vehicle’s control modules to help pinpoint problem areas.
All information, illustrations and specifications contained in this manual
are based on the latest information available from industr y so urces a t
the time of publication.
No warranty (expressed or implied) can be made for its accuracy or
completeness, nor is any responsibility assumed by the manufacturer
or anyone connected with it for loss or damages suffered through
reliance on any information contained in this manual or misuse of
accompanying product. The manufacturer 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.
✓ The included CD is NOT required to operate the Scan Tool
✓ Install the CD application prior to connecting the Scan Tool to the
PC.
✓ Some of the items included on the CD are:
❒ Manuals included with Scan Tool
2
❒ DTC lookup software
❒ Scan Tool update software
❒ Adobe Acrobat Reader Inst aller
❒ Print Capture
❒ Other product information
✓ T o be able to use the included CD the PC must mee t the following
minimum requirements:
❒ 486 PC
❒ 4 MB of RAM
❒ Microsoft Wind ows 98 SE, ME, 2000 and XP
❒ CD ROM Drive
❒ Adobe Acrobat Reader
❒ Internet Explorer 4.0 or newer
❒ Screen Resolution of 800 x 600
– If screen resolution is 800 x 600, in Display Properties, Settings
Diagnostic Service Manuals
PowerTrain Codes and Oxygen Sensors
Automotive Emission Control Manual
Fuel Injection
Automotive Electrical Manual
Automotive Electrics and Electronics
Automotive Sensors
Electronic Transmission Control
Emission Control Technology
Engine Management
or similar titles...
On-board diagnostics version II (OBD II) is a system that the Society of
Automotive Engineers (SAE) developed to standardize automotive
electronic diagnosis.
Beginning in 1996, most new vehicles sold in the United States were
fully OBD II compliant.
2
✓ Technicians can now use the same tool to test any OBD II
compliant vehicle without special adapters. SAE established
guidelines that provide:
❒ A universal connector, called the DLC, with dedicated pin
assignments.
❒ A standard location for th e DLC, visible under the dash on driver’s
side.
❒ A standard list of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) used by all
manufacturers.
❒ A standard list of parameter identification (PID) data used by all
manufacturers.
❒ Ability for vehicle systems to record operating conditions when a
fault occurs.
❒ Expanded diag nostic capabi lities that records a code whenever a
condition occurs that affects vehicle emissions.
❒ Ability to clear stored codes from the vehicle’s memory with a
Scan Tool.
SAE Publications
SAE has published hundreds of pages of text defining a standard
communication protocol that establishes hardware, software, and
circuit parameters of OBD II systems.
• SAE publishes recommendations, not laws, but the Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) and California Air Resources Board
(CARB) made many of SAE’s recommenda tions legal require ment s.
• Phone at 1-800-228-7667 (8:00 - 6:00 EST Monday - Friday)
Display
The display has a large viewing area displaying messages, instructions,
and diagnostic information.
✓ The back-lit liquid crystal display (LCD) is a 128 x 64 pixel display.
❒ Characters used to help operate the Scan Tool are:
`
Indicates cursor location.
?Indicates when Help is available.
]Indicates additional information is available on previous screen
by using the
[
Indicates additional information is available on next screen by
using
the DOWN
Indicates internal batteries need replaced or are not installed.
UP arrow key.
arrow key.
OBD II Function List
=====================
I/M Readiness
Read Codes
Pending Codes
Erase Codes
State OBD Check
View Data
?
3
Keypad
The keypad is used to move through the different men us of the Scan
Tool. The Scan Tool’s software is designed for ease in operating and
navigating through menus.
If the Scan Tool will not be used for an extended
period of time, remove the battery to prevent battery
leakage from damaging the battery compartment.
Page 31
Using The Scan Tool
Diagnostic
Connector
OBD II Function List
=====================
I/M Readiness
Read Codes
Pending Codes
Erase Codes
State OBD Check
View Data
Vehicle Power
When using the OBD II Cable, the power to
the Scan T ool comes from the vehicle DLC.
✓ Scan Tool will automatically turn on when
connected to vehicle.
System Setup
✓ System Setup allows:
❒ Display contrast to be changed.
❒ Scan Tool information to be viewed.
❒ Display to be checked.
❒ Operation of the keypad to be checked.
❒ Memory of the tool to be checked.
❒ Scan Tool to be upgraded.
✓ System Setup settings remain until internal battery becomes
timestamps indicate data
recorded before trigger event.
❒ Positive frames and
timestamps indicate data
recorded after trigger event.
❒ Use
UP or DOWN
arrow
keys to view recorded PID data of each frame.
❒ Use LEFT or RIGHT arrow keys to scroll back and forth
through frames.
✓ Different vehicles communicate at different speeds and support a
different number of PIDs. Therefor e, the maximum number of frames
that can be recorded varies.
✓ Some vehicles wait a long period of time to store a DTC after a
driveability problem occurs. If the operator selected Trigger On Codes
when making a recording, the operator might not see any drastic
change in data parameters before and after trigger point.
✓ If definition could not be found (SAE or Enhanced), the Scan Tool
3
displays No DTC Definition Found. See Service Manual. If the DTC is
manufacturer specific the DTC is assigned to display. Refer to the
vehicle service manual for exact definition
✓ The first time the scan tool links to the vehicle, the communication
protocol is automatically detected, and is used until the Scan Tool is
turned off.
✓ If an Error Message displays, make sure the OBDII connector is
attached, and the ignition key is on. Cycle ignition key to off for 10
seconds, then on. This may be required to reset computer. If required,
select yes to try again. If problem still exists, refer to”Error Messages”
on page 5-2 of Troubleshooting.
✓ The Scan Tool keeps all data received from the last vehicle
selected until any of the following occurs:
❒ The internal 9V battery is discharged or has been removed.
❒ Scan Tool is flash programmed to update software, or to change
❒ I/M Readiness
❒ Read Codes
❒ Pending Codes
❒ Erase Codes
❒ State OBD Check
❒ View Data
❒ View Freeze Data
❒ Drive Cycle Monitor
❒ O2 Monitor Test
❒ Diag Mon it or Test
❒ On-Board Systems
❒ Record Data
❒ Vehicle Information
❒ Modules Present
4
4
❒ Review Data
❒ Print Data
– I/M Readiness
– Codes
– Pending Codes
– State OBD Check
– View Freeze Data
– O2 Monitor Test
– Diag Monitor Test
– Playback
– Vehicle Info
– Modules Present
The I/M Readiness (Inspection / Maintenance) function is used to view
a snapshot of the operations for the emission system on OBD II
vehicles.
✓ I/M Readiness is a very useful function. To guarantee no faults exist
make sure all monitors are ok or n/a and no DTC’s exist.
✓ Refer to the vehicles service manual for the drive cycle operation.
✓ During normal driving conditions, the vehicle’s computer scans the
emission system. After a specific amount of drive time (each monitor
has specific driving conditions and time required), the computer’s
monitors decide if the vehicles emission system is working correctly
or not as well as detecting out of range values. When the monitor’s
status is:
• ok - vehicle was driven enough to complete the monitor.
• inc (Incomplete) - vehicle was not driven enough to complete the
monitor.
• n/a (Not Applicable)- vehicle does not support that monitor.
4
✓ Depending on vehicle, disconnecting or a discharged battery may
erase DTCs and clear monitor status.
✓ Monitors may be cleared by:
❒ Erasing codes
❒ Vehicle control modules losing power
✓ I/M Readiness can be done with the KOER or KOEO.
Abbreviations and names for OBD II Monitors supported by the Scan
Tool are shown below. They are required by the United States
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Not all monitors are
supported by all vehicles
Pending Codes
Erase Codes
State OBD Check
View Data
Read Codes
4
4
✓ The Read Codes function allows the Scan T ool to read the DTCs from
the vehicle’s control modules. DTCs are used to he lp dete rmin e the
cause of a problem or problems with a vehicle. These co des cause the
control module to illuminate the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL)
when emission-related or driveability fault o ccurs. MIL is also known
as service engine soon or check engine lamp.
✓ Read Codes can be done with the key on engine off (KOEO) or with
the key on engine running (KOER).
From OBD II Function List:
1. Select
•Use UP
•Press
Read Codes.
or DOWN
key until Read Codes is
highlighted.
ENTER
.
arrow
✓ If no DTCs are present a message stating System Pass: No F aults
Detected is displayed.
2. Select a vehicle
•See Vehicle Selection for details regarding this step.
✓ This step is available only if manufacturer’s specific enhanced DTCs
were read from the vehicle and a vehicle h as not been selected since
the tool was powered up.
✓ Selecting a vehicle may provide the user with the manufacturer’s
definition for the manufacturer specific DTC(s) returned by the
vehicle.
Pending Codes are also referred to as continuous mo nitor or maturing
codes. An intermittent fault causes the contro l module to stor e a code
in memory. If the fault does not occur within a certain number of
warm-up cycles (depending on vehicle), the code clear s from memory .
If fault occurs a specific number of times, the code matures into a DTC
and the MIL illuminates or blinks. This function can be used with KOEO
or KOER
The Pending Codes function is used to read any pending codes which
may be currently set.
✓ Pending Codes may be set by emission related powertrain
components and systems.
✓ Pending Codes faults do not automatically indicate a faulty
component or system.
From the OBD II Function List:
1. Select
•Use UP
•Press
Pending Codes
or DOWN
key until Pending Codes is
highlighted
ENTER
arrow
.
✓ If no Pending Codes are present a message stating System Pass:
No Faults Detected is displayed. (Do not mistake this message. It
refers only to Pending Codes and is not a warning of DTCs.)
2. Select a Vehicle.
•See Vehicle Selection for details regarding this step.
✓ This step is available only if manufacturer’s specific enhanced DTCs
were read from the vehicle and a vehicle h as not been selected since
the tool was powered up.
✓ Selecting a vehicle may provide the user with the manufacturer’s
definition for the manufacturer specific DTC(s) returned by the
vehicle.
MIL Status ON
Codes Found : 1
Monitors OK: 3
Monitors Inc: 4
Monitors N/A: 4
Press BACK To Exit
From the OBD II Function List:
1. Select
•Use UP
key until State OBD Check is
highlighted
•Press
2. View State OBD Check
Display
3. Return to OBD II Function
List.
•Press
View Data
State OBD Check
or DOWN
ENTER
BACK
.
arrow
4
The View Data function allows real time viewing of the vehicle’s
computer module’s PID data. As the computer monitors the vehicle,
information is simultaneously transmitted to scan tool.
✓ View data allows the following items to be viewed on the scan tool:
❒ Sensor data
❒ Operation of switches
❒ Operation of solenoids
❒ Operation of relays
✓ View data can be shown as:
❒ Entire Data List
❒ Custom Data List
✓ Apart from Read Codes, View Data is the most useful diagnostic
function for isolating the cause of a vehicle operation problem.
✓ Multiple PIDs may be sent if vehicle is equipped with more than one
computer module (for example a powertrain control module [PCM]
and a transmission control module [TCM]). The Scan Tool identifies
them by their identification names (ID) assigned by manufacturer (i.e.
$10 or $1A).
✓ If one or more control module stops responding, the Scan Tool
displays a message.
❒ If continuing, dashes will replace data in right hand column.
❒ If no is selected, then the Scan Tool attempts to re-establish
✓ The Customize Lines allows the number of lines to be shown at one
time to be set from 1 to 8.
✓ Selecting fewer lines provides faster update speeds. The default is a
eight-line display.
From Select Data to View menu:
1. Select Customize Lines.
•Use UP
key until Customize Lines is
highlighted.
•Press
2. Select Display Lines.
•Use
key.
•Press
or DOWN
ENTER
.
UP or DOWN
ENTER
.
arrow
arrow
View Freeze Data
When an emission-related fault occurs, certain vehicle conditions are
recorded by the on-board computer. This information is referred to as
freeze frame data. View Freeze Data is a snapshot of the operating
conditions at the time of an emission-related fault.
✓ View Freeze Data can be overwritten by faults with a higher priority.
✓ If codes were erased, View Freeze Data may not be stored in vehicle
The Drive Cycle Monitor function is very similar to the I/M Monitors
though the Drive Cycle Monitor is used to view REAL TIME
of the Emissions System on OBD II vehicles.
operations
✓ Drive Cycle Monitor continuously updates as the vehicle reports
operations of the Emission System.
✓ Refer to the vehicle service manual for the drive cycle operation.
✓ During normal driving conditions, the vehicle computer scans the
emission system. After a specific amount of drive time (each monitor
has specific driving conditions and time requirements), the
computer’s monitors will decide if the vehicle emissions system is
working correctly or not as well as detecting out a range of values.
When the monitor’s status is:
• “ok” - vehicle has been driven enough for function.
• “inc” (Incomplete) - vehicle was not driven enough to complete all of
the monitors.
• “n/a”(Not Applicable) - vehicle does not support that monitor.
✓ Clear Monitors by:
❒ Erasing Codes.
❒ Vehicle Computer Module losing power (on some vehicles).
OBD II regulations require applicable vehicles monito r and test oxygen
(O2) sensors to determine problems related to fuel and emissions. The
O2 Monitor Test allows retrieval of completed O2 sensors monito r test
results.
✓ The O2 Monitor Test is not an on-demand test. O2 sensors are not
tested when selected via the menu. O2 sensors are tested when
engine operating conditions are within specified limits.
✓ If the vehicle communicates using a controller area network (CAN),
O2 monitor tests are not supported by vehicle. A message is
displayed. See “
monitor data.
Diagnostic Monitor Tests” on page 4-25 to see O2
✓ O2 sensors are located before (upstream) and after (downstream)
catalyst(s). Sensors are named (xy) for their position to both cylinder
banks and catalysts.
❒ The O2 sensor for cylinder bank 1 has prefix 1y while O2 sensor
for cylinder bank 2 has prefix 2y.
❒ The O2 sensor up stream of cat alyst (closest to engine) has suffix
x1 while O2 sensor downstream of catalyst has suffix x2. If
vehicle contains more catalysts, O2 sensor downstream of
second catalyst has suffix x3 and O2 sensor downstream of next
catalyst has suffix x4.
❒ For example, O2S21 is upstream O2 sensor for cylinder bank 2.
View Fre eze Data
Drive Cycle Monitor
O2 Monitor Test
Diag Monitor Test
On-Board Systems
Record Data
Vehicle Information
4. Return to O2 Monitor Tests menu.
•Press
BACK
.
5. Return to OBD II Function List.
BACK
•Press
.
Diagnostic Monitor Tests
The Diag nostic Monitor T est function is useful after servicing or after
erasing a vehicle’s memory. Test results do not necessarily indicate a
faulty component or system.
✓ Non-CAN vehiclesDiagnostic Monitor Test receives test results for
emission-related powertrain components and systems that are not
continuously monitored.
4
✓ CAN vehicles Diagnostic Monitor Test receives test results for
emission-related powertrain components and systems that are and
are not continuously monitored.
✓ Vehicle manufacturer is responsible for a ssigning test and component
IDs.
From the OBD II Function List:
1. Select
•Use UP
Diag Mon Tests.
or DOWN
arrow
key until Diag Mon Tests is
highlighted.
•Press
ENTER
.
✓ Applicable Diagnostic Monitor Tests are displayed.
4. After recording, Scan Tool
displays a prompt to
Playback Data.
• Answer No to return to
OBD II Function List.
•Answer Yes to display
recorded data.
Record Data
Playback Data?
<Yes><No>
❒Refer to Playback from
Review Data and press
ENTER
The Vehicle Info function allows the Scan T ool to request the vehicle’s
VIN number, calibration ID(s) which identifies software version in
vehicle control module(s), and calibration verification numbers
(CVN(s).)
.
✓ Vehicle Info function applies to model year 2000 and newer OBD II
compliant vehicles.
✓ The Scan Tool cannot verify if data is correct for scanned vehicles.
✓ CVNs are calculated values required by OBD II regulations.
✓ The CVN calculation may take several minutes.
✓ CVNs are reported to determine if emission-related calibrations have
been changed. Multiple CVNs may be reported for a control mod ule.
✓ Since CAN vehicles use module IDs larger than 2 digits, the Scan T ool
assigns a 2 digit module ID to be used in place of the actual CAN
module ID. The module ID assigned for the CAN module ID is used
in all functions of the Scan Tool.
❒ Verify ignition key is in the ON and not in the ACCESSORIES
position.
❒ Make sure OBD II Cable is attached to vehicle’s data link
connector (DLC) and Scan Tool.
❒ Look at DLC and check for cracked or recessed pins, or for any
substance that could prevent a good electrical connection.
❒ Test for continuity between the DLC wiring and the computer. In
an extreme case, there may be a broken wire.
❒ Check for bent or broken pins.
❒ With the key on engine off (KOEO), check for blown fuses.
❒ Make sure the vehicle’s control module has a good ground. If the
computer case is grounded, then clean the connectio n and apply
a conductive (dielectric) grease to the mating surfaces.
❒ With the KOEO, verify battery voltage is at least 8.0V
❒ Verify the control module is not defective. Refer to the service
manual to diagnose the control module.
Scan Tool Does Not Power Up
✓ Review Safety Precautions before troubleshooting.
If Scan Tool will not power up, communicate with vehicle’s control
module, pass Scan T ool self-tests, or functions incorrectly in any other
way, do the following:
❒ Check and replace the 9V battery if need ed.
❒ Clean the DLC pins.
❒ Disconnect and reconnect DLC making sure it is connected
All global parameter identification (PID) data listed were verified on actual
vehicles to guarantee accuracy. PID definitions were obtained from reliable
sources and are accurate at time of printing. It is possible that some newer
vehicles may contain data different from what is listed. Always refer to vehicle
service manual for manufacturer specific PIDs.
Remember , always refer the ap plicable service manual for det ailed diagnostic
procedures when troubleshooting PID values.
Types of Data Parameters
INPUT:These data parameters are obtained from sensor circuit
outputs. Sensor circuit outputs are inputs to the vehicles
PCM. For example, if oxygen sensor circuit was
generating a 400mV signal, then the code reader would
read O2S (v).40.
OUTPUT:These data parameters are outputs or commands that
come directly from control module(s). For example, the
ignition spark advance is controlled by PCM, on most
vehicles, monitoring this PID shows spark output from
PCM.
CALCULATEDThese data parameters are calculated after analyzing
VALUE:various inputs to the vehicles control module(s). For
example, the engine load. The PCM calculates this from
sensor inputs and displays in a percentage.
PCM VALUE:Information that is stored in the control module(s) memory
and determined to be useful to service technician. An
example of this is TROUBLE CODE values, the DTC that
caused a freeze frame capture.
NOTE: Seve ral different causes can h ave the same parameter indicatio n. For
information on diagnostics consult applicable service manuals.
NOTE: The Scan Tool only displays the PID’s the vehicle supports.
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. Ideally the A/F ratio is 14.7:1.
ABS:
Anti-lock Brake System
A/C Clutch Relay:
The PCM uses this relay to energize the A/C clutch, turning the A/C compressor
on or off.
A/C Pressure Sensor:
Measures air conditioning refrigerant pressur e and sends a voltage signal to the
PCM.
A/C 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 or high.
Actuator:
Actuators such as relays, solenoids, and motors allow the PCM to control th e
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.
APP:
Acceleration Pedal Position (Sensor)
ASR:
Acceleration Slip Regulation
Bank x:
The standard way of referring to the bank of cylinders containing cylinder #x.
In-line engines have only one bank of cylinders. Most commonly u sed to identify
the location of oxygen sensors. See O2S, Sensor x, Sensor x.
A solenoid that is energized by the PCM, in order to contro l turbo/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.
Catalytic Converter:
Designed to reduce exhaust emissions.
CAN:
Controller Area Network
CARB:
California Air Resources Board. Governing body for emissions control in
California.
CKP REF:
Crankshaft Position Reference.
CKP:
Crankshaft Position. See CPS.
CKT:
Circuit
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.
CMP:
Camshaft Position Sensor
CO:
Carbon Monoxide; odorless gas produced by incomplete combustion.
Code Scanner:
A device that interfaces with and communicates information via a data link.
Continuous Memory Codes:
See Pending Codes.
CPS:
B
Crankshaft Position Sensor . Sends a fr equency signal to the PCM. It is used to
reference fuel injector operation and synchronize spark plug firi ng on
distributorless ignition systems (DIS).
Coolant Temperature Sensor. A resistance sensor that sends a voltage signal
to the PCM indicating the temperature of the coolant. This signa l tells the PCM
whether the engine is cold or warm.
CVRTD:
Continuous Variable Real Time Damping
D/R:
Drive/Reverse
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.
DI/DIS:
Direct Ignition/Distributorless Ignition System. A system that produces the
ignition spark without the use of a distributor.
DPFE:
Differential Pressure Feedback – Exhaust Gas Recirculation Sensor
DTC:
Diagnostic Trouble Code. An alphanumeric identifier for a fault condition
identified by the On Board Diagnostic System.
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.
EBCM:
Electronic Brake Control Module
EBTCM:
Electronic Brake/Traction Control Module
ECM
Engine Control Module or Electronic Control Module
ECT:
Engine Coolant Temperature sensor. See CTS.
EEPROM:
Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory
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 is used
only during warm engine cruise conditions.
EOP:
Engine Oil Pressure (Switch)
EOT
Engine Oil Temperature (Sensor)
EPA:
Environmental Protection Agency.
ESC:
Electronic Spark Control. An ignition system function that warns the PCM when
knock is detected. The PCM then retards spark timing to eliminate the kn ocking
condition.
EST:
Electronic Spa rk Timing. An ignition system that allows the PCM to control sp ark
advance timing. The PCM determines optimum spark timing from sensor
information — engine speed, throttle position, coolant temperature, eng ine load,
vehicle speed, Park/Neutral switch position, and knock sensor condition.
EVAP:
Evaporative Emissions System.
FC:
Fan Control
Freeze Frame:
A block of memory containing DTCs of the vehicle operating conditions for a
specific time.
FTP:
Federal Test Procedure. Strict test of vehicle’s emissions.
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:
B
Heated Oxygen Sensor. See O2S.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning (Syste m)
I/M:
Inspection and Maintenance. An emission control program.
Idle Air Control. A device mounted on the throttle body which adjusts the amo unt
of air bypassing a closed throttle so that the PCM can control idle speed.
IAT:
Intake Air Temperature (Sensor )
ICM:
Ignition Control Module.
IMRC:
Intake Manifold Runner Control
IPC:
Instrument Panel Cluster
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 also know as International
Standards Organization.
KAM:
Keep Alive Memory
Knock Sensor (KS):
Used to detect engine detonation or knock. The sensor contains a piezoelectr ic
element and is threaded into the engine block. S pecial construction makes the
element sensitive only to engine vibrations associated with detonation.
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.
KOEO:
Key On Engine Off. Turn the ignition key to on, but don’t start engine.
KOER:
Key On Engine Running. Start the vehicle.
LCD:
Liquid Crystal Display
LTFT:
Long Term Fuel Trim
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.
Manifold Absolute Pressure (sensor). Measures intake manifold vacuum or
pressure and sends a frequency or volt age 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 emission-related malfunction.
Misfire:
Caused by the air fuel ratio being incorrect.
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. The system EGR and Camshafts injects exhaust gases into
the intake manifold to reduce these gases at the tailpipe.
O2S:
Oxygen Sensor. Ge nerates a volt ag e of 0.6 to 1.1 volts when th e exhaust gas
is rich (low oxygen content). The voltage changes to 0.4 volts or less when th e
exhaust gas is lean (high oxygen content). This sensor only operates after it
reaches a temperature of approximately 349ºC (660ºF). O2 sensor s 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 ef ficien cy of the
catalytic converter. See Bank 1, Bank 2, Sensor 1, Sensor 2.
OBD II:
On-Board Diagnostics, Second Generation. OBD II is a U.S.
Government-mandated standa rd requiring all cars and light trucks to have a
common data connector, connector location, communication protocol, DTCs
and code definitions. OBD II first appeared on vehicles in late 1994, and is
required to be present on all cars sold in the US after January 1, 1996.
ODM:
Output Device Monitor.
B
Open Loop (OL):
A control system mode that does not monitor the output to verify if the desired
results were achieved. A fuel delivery system us ually operates in open loop
mode during cold engine warm-up because the oxygen sensors are not yet
ready to send a signal. Without the oxygen sensor signal, th e computer cannot
check the actual results of combustion.
Powertrain Control Module. The brains of the engine and transmission control
systems housed in a metal box with a number of sensors and actuators
connected via a wiring harness. Its job is to control fuel delivery, idle speed,
spark advance timing, and emission systems. The PCM receives information
from sensors, then energizes various actuators to control the engine. The PCM
is also known as the ECM (Engine Control Module).
Pending Codes:
Also referred to as Continuous Memory codes and Maturing Diagnostic T rouble
Codes. Pending Codes may be set by emission related powertrain components
and systems. If the fault does not occur after a certain number of drive cycles,
the code is erased from memory.
PID:
Parameter Identification. Identifies an address in memory which contains
vehicle operating information.
PNP:
Park/Neutral Position. A switch that tells the PCM when the gear shift lever is
in the Park or Neutral position. When in Park or Neutral, the PCM operates the
engine in an idle mode.
PROM:
Programmable Read-Only Memory. The PROM contains programming
information the PCM needs to operate a specific vehicle model/engine
combination.
PSPS:
Power Steering Pressure Switch
Purge Solenoid:
Controls the flow of fuel vapors from the carbon canister to the intake manifold.
The canister collects vapors evaporating from the fuel t ank, preventing them
from escaping to the atmosphere and causing pollution. During warm engine
cruise conditions, the PCM energizes the Purge Solenoid so the trapped vapors
are drawn into the engine and burned .
PWM:
Pulse Width Modulated
PZM:
Platform Zone Module
QDM:
Quad Driver Module
RAM:
Random Access Memory
Relay:
An electromechanical device in which co nnections in one circuit are switched .
Reluctance Sensor:
A type of sensor typically used to measure crankshaf t or camshaft speed and/or
position, driveshaft speed, and wheel speed.
Read-Only Memory. Permanent programming information stored inside the
PCM, containing the information the PCM needs to operate a specific vehicle
model/engine combination.
RPM:
Revolutions Per Minute
SAE:
Society of Automotive Engineers.
Scan Tool:
A device that interfaces with and communicates information on a data link.
SDM:
Sensing and Diagnostic Module
Sensor x:
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:
Any device that reports information to the PCM. The job of the sensor is to
convert a parameter such as engine temperature in to an electrical signal that the
PCM can understand.
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.
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.
STFT:
Short Term Fuel Trim.
STS:
Service Throttle Soon
TAC:
Throttle Actuator Control
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.