Scan Tool Setup and Functionality
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More supporting gear
Torque wrench
Use the factory procedure with the right tightening tool.
Manual-based work becomes much easier when you can torque correctly.
Shop on Amazon →Trim tool set
Useful for clips, covers, and trim pieces called out by the manual.
Most manual procedures assume you have a good trim removal kit.
Shop on Amazon →Multimeter kit
Great for electrical troubleshooting and manual-tested circuits.
Electrical work in manuals often needs a meter more than another wrench.
Shop on Amazon →Connect the scan tool to the data link connector (DLC) for communication with the vehicle.
The DLC is located on the driver side of the vehicle under the steering column. It is attached to the instrument panel and accessible from the driver seat.
The DLC is rectangular in design and capable of accommodating up to 16 terminals. The connector has keying features to allow easy connection.
The required scan tool functions are described below:
- monitor, record, and playback of parameter identification (PID)
- freeze frame PID data
- diagnostic test modes; self-test, clear diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
- output state control (OSC)
- output test mode (OTM)
- resetting keep alive memory (KAM)
- diagnostic monitoring test results (mode 6) for on board diagnostic (OBD) monitors
- on board system readiness (OBD monitor completion status)
Some of these functions are described. Refer to the scan tool manufacturer's instruction manual for specific information on scan tool setup and operation.
International Standards Organization (ISO) 14229 DTC Descriptions
The ISO 14229 DTC is a set of common requirements for diagnostic systems. The scan tool displays a failure type and a status type with the DTC. The types display additional information the scan tool for the condition that set the DTC. For a list of failure type descriptions, refer to Description and Operation, Powertrain Control Software, International Standards Organization (ISO) 14229 Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Descriptions.