Actron KAL9620A User Manual
9620 Global
OBD II Scan Tool
Table of Contents
Vehicle ServiceInformation ......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 ConnectorandLocation .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
PrinterInterface..............................9
1.6 Replacing the Battery ..................... 9
1.7 AC Adapter ......................................9
Section 2: Diagnosing with
theScan 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 Diagnostic Monitor Tests ...... 16
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 powerup:25
4.2.2 Scan Tool does not Link
withvehicle:........................... 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 &
Definitions -------- 31
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 SPX or anyone connected with it for loss or damages
suffered through reliance on any information contained in this manual or misuse of
accompanying product. SPX 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 9620 Professional OBD II Scan Tool
Vehicle ServiceInformation
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
Motors Auto Repair Manual
Hearst Company
250 W 55th Street
New York, NY 10019
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
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
9620 Professional OBD II Scan Tool 3
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 manufacturers warnings, cautions and service
procedures.
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.
4 9620 Professional OBD II Scan Tool
Section 1: Vehicle Computer Systems
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
1980s 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 1996 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.
9620 Professional OBD II Scan Tool 5
1.2 Data Link ConnectorandLocation
Welcome To
The Global OBDII
SCANTOOL
Press HELP For Key |
Button Information
Press ENTER To Cont
The scan tool 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.
6 9620 Professional OBD II Scan Tool
1.3.1 Keyboard
OBDII Function List |
3)Erase Codes ]
4)View Data [
`5)View Freeze Data
The scan tool software was designed for ease of use in navigating through operational
menus. Simply follow instructions that match keyboard symbols.
Keyboard Functions
The scan tool uses 8 keys to navigate through the software-user interface:
ENTER Used to select or answer a software request.
HELP Used to request help when the (|) symbol is displayed in the lower right
hand corner of the display.
BACK Used to move one screen back in scan tool flow.
ARROWS
UP/DOWN Used to move the solid cursor (`) in the direction of the arrow or
scroll the data list in the direction you want to move the list.
LEFT/RIGHT Used to select and deselect items in custom lists. This key is
also used to answer questions by selecting yes or no.
ON/OFF Used to turn scan tool ON and OFF when not powered by vehicle.
Momentarily press and release button when turning ON to allow boot process.
1.3.2 Display
The scan tool has a 4 line x 20 character backlit
Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) for easy viewing. The
backlighting is disabled when the scan tool is
powered by its internal batteries. This gives the
user a large viewing area to display most Help
and Instructional messages. It puts more
information on the display instead of having to refer to printed materials. Again the display will
support a number of helpful characters that will prompt the user through test routines. These
characters are shown below:
| Question Mark in lower right corner means there is help available for this screen or
current selectable item.
` Pointer (cursor) is used to indicate current selectable choice.
[ Down Arrow indicates there is additional information on the next screen.
] Up Arrow indicates there is additional information on previous screen.
« Diamond to the left of item indicates it is selected.
The screen at the right shows how some of these symbols will look on your display.
1.3.3 Lists, Menus, and Questions
The scan tool is designed to be as intuitive as possible. Its functions and controls are easy to
understand and use. All menu and screen lists operate the same way. Use the UP/DOWN
arrow keys to move the cursor to a selection. The ENTER key selects that function or item. The
screen examples below show a few selections available on the OBDII Function List.
For example: to read vehicles DTCs, move cursor to Read Codes and press ENTER.
To make a different choice, use the DOWN arrow key to move the cursor down to View Data
and press ENTER. This will select the View Data function.
Sometimes, a list will be longer than three or four items, and will not fit on a single screen. In
this case, the DOWN arrow symbol ([) is visible in the last column of the display, indicating
that there are more choices on the next screen, as shown below on the left. Use the DOWN
arrow key to move the cursor down the list.
9620 Professional OBD II Scan Tool 7
At the bottom of the list, there is now only an UP arrow symbol (]) visible in the last
View Instructions
For Creating Custom
Data List?
Yes <No>
OBDII Function List |
`1) I/M Readiness
2)Read Codes [
3)Pending Codes
OBDII Function List |
4)View Data ]
5)View Freeze Data [
`6)Record Data
Setup Tool For
1) English/Metric
`2)Display Contrast
3)Tool Information
]Increase Contrast
[Decrease Contrast
Press ENTER To Save
Setup Tool For
`1) English/Metric
2)Display Contrast [
3)Tool Information
Measurement Units
`English(Default)
Metric
column indicating the last function in the list has been reached. To return to previous
screens, press the UP arrow key. The UP/DOWN arrow keys work the same way when
scrolling through text such as the Help screen.
The Scan Tool may ask a question which requires a response from user. These will
always be YES or NO questions, and are answered with cursor and Arrow keys.
In these screens, brackets <> will automatically appear next to default response. To
accept default choice, simply press ENTER. Use LEFT/RIGHT arrow key to move brackets
to other response and press ENTER.
1.4 Tool Setup
Only functions of the Main Menu that pertain to getting started with scan tool are discussed
in the following paragraphs. For all other menu selections available, refer to Section 4:
Help and Troubleshooting Tips.
Tool Setup is used to change the scan tool default
unit settings. To change the scan tool settings,
select Tool Setup from the MAIN MENU and
press the ENTER key.
NOTE: Settings chosen will remain until 9 volt battery is dead.
1.4.1 Changing Measurement Units
After selecting Tool Setup option, tool setup menu appears. To choose English or Metric
measurement units, use UP/DOWN arrows to make selection and press ENTER. The
display will look like the following screen:
1.4.2 Changing Display Contrast
From the Tool Setup menu, select Display Contrast and press ENTER. Use the UP/
DOWN arrow keys as indicated on the screen:
8 9620 Professional OBD II Scan Tool
1.4.3 Displaying Tool Information
Setup Tool For
1) English/Metric
2)Display Contrast
`3)Tool Information
Tool Information:
`Serial No: 1360447]
SW ID: 86E3H[
HW Ver: 1
From Tool Setup menu, select Tool Information and press ENTER. Use UP/DOWN
arrow keys to view information. Record information in case the need to contact customer
service arises.
1.4.4 Program Mode
Used to update scan tools software. Instructions will be provided with updates.
1.5 Personal Computer (PC) and PrinterInterface
Scan tool is equipped with a standard 9 pin serial interface. Use connection to attach
tool to a PC or compatible printer.
Personal Computer
Use serial adapter to connect to a PC when updating to current available software.
Software updates may be purchased from Actron by calling the toll free number
provided.
Refer to Section 2.4.13 Print Data for default serial port settings and to make
changes to settings.
Printer Connection
Connect a compatible printer cable to the scan tool and Printer using specifications
below:
- If the printer connector is a 25 pin connector or if the gender is not compatible, an
adapter will be required.
- Adapters are available at most local PC stores or electronics outlets.
- A NULL modem adapter is required to be connected in series with scan tool and
printer cable.
1.6 Replacing the Battery
To replace the 9V battery, do the following:
Remove screw from back of scan tool case.
Slide battery cover back to disengage hooks.
Replace 9V battery and place in compartment.
Slide battery cover up, making sure hooks engage scan tool case.
Install screw.
1.7 AC Adapter
The AC power adapter powers the tool when you review codes and print off-vehicle and when
you update the software vial a personal computer. The Scan tool is equipped to accept any
110 Vac12 Vdc AC adapter with the following specifications.
300 mA minimum unregulated wall power adapter.
Dimensions - 5.5 mm Outside Diameter, 2.5 mm Inside Diameter.
9620 Professional OBD II Scan Tool 9
NEG
POS
Section 2: Diagnosing with theScan Tool
FRONT
OF CAR
HVAC
CRUISE
BRAKE BOOSTER
TO TRANS
MODE
EGR
VAC
REG
FUEL
PRESS
REG
EGR
VAC
REG
9RAC2LAB
T
ER
P
A.
M
2.1 Preliminary Checks
Before using scan tool, perform a complete visual inspection. Many driveability problems
are found by visual inspection, saving time. Check the following items before proceeding
with scan tool testing:
1. Has vehicle been serviced recently? Sometimes
things get connected in the wrong place, or not at all.
2. Dont take shortcuts. Inspect hoses and wiring which
may be difficult to see because of location beneath air
cleaner housings, alternators and similar
components.
3. Inspect air cleaner and ductwork for defects.
4. Check sensors and actuators for damage.
5. Inspect all vacuum hoses for:
Correct routing. Refer to vehicle service manual, or
Vehicle Emission Control Information (VECI) decal
located in engine compartment.
Pinches and kinks.
Splits, cuts or breaks.
6. Inspect wiring for:
Contact with sharp edges (this happens frequently).
Contact with hot surfaces, such as exhaust manifolds.
Pinched, burned or chafed insulation.
Proper routing and connections.
7. Check electrical connectors for:
Corrosion on pins.
Bent or damaged pins.
Contacts not properly seated in housing.
Bad wire crimps to terminals.
Connector problems are common in engine control
system. Inspect for corrosion, bent, pushed out, or over
expanded pins.
Note: Some connectors use special grease on contacts to prevent corrosion. Do not wipe
off! Obtain grease, from vehicle dealer. It is a special type for this purpose.
2.2 Connecting the Scan Tool
Remove protective cap from data link connector,
if present. Connect scan tool and follow scan
tool prompts. Use scan tool 9V battery to do selftests, review codes, code lookup or print data
when connection to vehicle is not required.
When scan tool powers up, a series of screens
are displayed. The screen starts with Welcome
and ends with a Key Button Help.
10 9620 Professional OBD II Scan Tool
Diagnostic
Connector
After pressing ENTER from HELP Screen, the
MAIN MENU |
`1) Vehicle Diagnosis
2)Tool Setup [
3)Tool Self Test
OBDII Function List |
`1) I/M Readiness
2)Read Codes [
3)Pending Codes
Erase Data From
Previous Vehicle
Test?
YES <NO>
Turn Key Off
For 10 Seconds
Then Turn Key On
Then Press ENTER
OBDII Function List |
`1) I/M Readiness
2)Read Codes [
3)Pending Codes
Main Menu displays. Select Vehicle Diagnosis
and press ENTER.
The scan tool asks to erase data from previous
test. Use LEFT/RIGHT arrow keys to select a
response and press ENTER.
A message displays Turn Key Off For 10
Seconds, Then Turn Key On and Then Press
ENTER.
2.3 OBD II Functions List
Use UP/DOWN arrow keys to move cursor(`). Once selection is made, press ENTER.
Press and release BACK key to return to OBD II Function List. Pressing BACK key from
the OBD II Function List returns scan tool to Main
Menu. The first time scan tool communicates with
vehicle, the communication type is automatically
detected, and is used until scan tool is turned
OFF or another vehicle is diagnosed.
Not every vehicle will have every function
listed. If function or part of a function selected is not supported by a vehicle, a
message screen informing of this will be shown.
NOTE: If an Operating Error message is displayed, make sure the OBD II J1962 cable is
securely attached, and ignition key is ON. Cycle ignition key to OFF for 10 seconds,
then ON. This may be required to reset the PCM. If required, select Yes to test again.
If problem still exists, refer to Section 4: Help and Troubleshooting Tips.
2.3.1 I/M Readiness
Purpose of the I/M Readiness test is to display current information on emissions-related
systems. These systems are required by OBD II regulation to be monitored for emissions
testing. OBD II I/M Readiness Monitors are strategies designed to test operations of
emission related systems or components. The computer module uses these monitors
to check for correct operations of system and components as well as out of range values.
The computer module may perform a special test on a system or component to complete
the monitor. It may be required to operate vehicle under certain conditions in order to
perform an accurate test. If computer module loses power, or codes are erased, monitors
may be cleared. The scan tool displays the state of vehicle OBD II Monitors.
To enter I/M Readiness viewing mode, select I/M Readiness from OBD II Function List
and press ENTER.
A list of On-Board system readiness tests and
their status will be displayed. Use vehicle service
manuals for more information on emissionrelated monitors and their status.
Below are examples of completed versus not
completed I/M Readiness screens:
Use the UP/DOWN arrow keys to view monitor list. The monitor list consists of the OBD
II monitor name followed by monitor state. A monitor that is not supported by test vehicle
9620 Professional OBD II Scan Tool 11
Loading...