Code Reader
400
Powerful Diagnostics. Verified Fix Solutions. Link to Parts & Shops.
User’s Guide
i
WELCOME!
Hello...
On behalf of everyone at BLCKTEC [we say “Block Tech”], we want to welcome and thank you
for purchasing the BLCKTEC™ 400 Code Reader! We may look like the new kid on the block,
but we bring over 30 years of experience making tools for do-it-yourselfers and professionals.
We also love to work on cars, so we’ve put a lot of effort to create scan tools that help maximize,
and simplify, the OBD2 diagnostic routine.
In this manual, we’ll guide you on how to tap into your tool’s powerful functions including:
Plus, gain the benet of having unlimited access to real world xes on your mobile device:
We hope you have a blast using your BLCKTEC Code Reader!
Yours sincerely,
The BLCKTEC Team
; Check Engine Light Diagnostics
; Smog / Emissions Readiness
; Code Severity Level Identier
; Erase Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
; And More...
RepairSolutions2® seamlessly pairs with your BLCKTEC
OBD2 diagnostic tool to deliver the most complete
automotive repair database with veried xes from ASE
Certied Master Technicians. Find the right x and the right
parts instantly on your mobile device.
ii
LEGAL INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
FCC Compliance Statement � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 1
Trademarks � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 1
Patents � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 2
California Product Warnings � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 2
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Safety First! � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 3
Safety Alert Icons � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 4
INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Tool Controls and Indicators � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 5
Tool Display Functions � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 6
FIX For DTCs – The RepairSolutions2
®
App � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 7
Every RepairSolutions2
®
Report Provides... . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Hardware Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Download the App . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Using the RS2
App . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
USING THE CODE READER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Retrieving OBD2 Diagnostic Trouble Codes � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 9
Erasing Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 10
WARRANTY+ CUSTOMER SERVICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Limited Warranty � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 12
Customer Service � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 12
GLOSSARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
OBD2 Terminology � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 13
OBD2 Monitors � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 14
Continuous Monitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Non-Continuous Monitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Additional Terminology + Acronyms � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � 15
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1
LEGAL INFORMATION
FCC Compliance Statement
LEGAL INFORMATION
FCC COMPLIANCE STATEMENT
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of
the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential
installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used
in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference
to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged
to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Changes or modications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s
authority to operate the equipment.
FCC ID: 2AC7Z-ESPWR00M32D
FCC RF Radiation Exposure Statement
The transmitters within this device must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any
other antenna or transmitter.
This equipment complies with IC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled
environment. End users must follow the specic operating instructions for satisfying RF
exposure compliance. To maintain with IC RF exposure compliance requirements please follow
operation instruction as documented in this manual.
TRADEMARKS
Title, ownership rights, and intellectual property rights in the Products and Services shall remain in BLCKTEC and/or
its licensors and other suppliers. Licensee and End Users acknowledge such ownership, condential information, and
intellectual property rights and will not take any action to jeopardize, limit or interfere in any manner with BLCKTEC’s
or its licensors’ or other suppliers’ ownership of or rights with respect to the Products and Services. The Products and
Services may be protected by Patent, Trademark, Copyright and/or other intellectual property laws and by international
treaties. All trademarks used in connection with the Products and Services are owned by BLCKTEC, its afliates or
its licensors and other suppliers, and no license to use any such trademarks is provided hereunder. Licensee and
End Users agree that BLCKTEC may use in any manner and without limitation all comments, suggestions, complaints
and other feedback Licensee and End Users provide relating to the Products and Services. For more information and
current listing of trademarks, please visit
https://www.blcktec.com/trademarks.
3
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Safety First!
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
SAFETY FIRST!
It is important that every user utilizing this product read all instructions and warnings included within this manual
to ensure your safety, the safety of others, and to prevent damage to this product & vehicles being diagnosed and
repaired. This manual describes common test procedures used by experienced service technicians. It is inferred that
the user has a good understanding of vehicle systems before using this product.
Many test procedures require precautions to avoid accidents that can result in personal injury, and/or damage to
your vehicle or test equipment. At a minimum, the following safety standards should be followed whenever using this
product, or whenever working on a vehicle.
When an engine is running, it produces carbon monoxide, a toxic and poisonous gas. To
prevent serious injury or death from carbon monoxide poisoning, operate the vehicle ONLY in
a well-ventilated area.
To protect your eyes from propelled objects as well as hot or caustic liquids, always wear
approved safety eye protection.
When an engine is running, many parts (such as the coolant fan, pulleys, fan belt etc.) turn at
high speed. To avoid serious injury, always be aware of moving parts. Keep a safe distance
from these parts as well as other potentially moving objects.
Engine parts become very hot when the engine is running. To prevent severe burns, avoid
contact with hot engine parts.
Before starting an engine for testing or troubleshooting, make sure the parking brake is
engaged. Put the transmission in park (for automatic transmission) or neutral (for manual
transmission). Block the drive wheels with suitable tire blocks.
Connecting or disconnecting test equipment when the ignition is ON can damage test equipment
and the vehicle’s electronic components. Turn the ignition OFF before connecting the tablet
to or disconnecting the tablet from the vehicle’s Data Link Connector (DLC).
To prevent damage to the on-board computer when taking vehicle electrical measurements,
always use a digital multimeter with at least 10 Megohms of impedance.
Fuel and battery vapors are highly ammable. To prevent an explosion, keep all sparks, heated
items, and open ames away from the battery and fuel vapors. DO NOT SMOKE NEAR THE
VEHICLE DURING TESTING
Don’t wear loose clothing or jewelry when working on an engine. Loose clothing can
become caught in the fan, pulleys, belts, etc. Jewelry is highly conductive and can cause a
severe burn if it makes contact between a power source and ground.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Safety Alert Icons
4
SAFETY ALERT ICONS
As you read this manual, color-coded icons are used throughout to identify safety alerts and warnings. These are
provided to help prevent serious injury to you, injury to bystanders, and damage to property or equipment. They are
characterized as follows:
Yellow Icon – Provides a ”NOTE:“ statement to offer special information
or tip on what is being instructed.
Orange Icon – Potential hazardous situation. Provides a “WARNING:“
statement on how to proceed to avoid serious injury to the user,
bystanders, and/or equipment.
Red Icon – Imminent hazardous situation. Provides an immediate
“DANGER:“ alert on what must be done to prevent serious injury or death
to the user or bystanders.
5
INTRODUCTION
Tool Controls and Indicators
INTRODUCTION
TOOL CONTROLS AND INDICATORS
See Figure 1 for the locations of items 1 through 7, below.
1.
ERASE button - Erases Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and “Freeze Frame” data from your vehicle’s
computer, and resets Monitor status.
2. DTC button - Displays the Diagnostic Trouble Codes
View screen and/or scrolls the LCD display to view
Diagnostic Trouble Codes.
3. GREEN LED - Indicates that all engine systems are
running normally (all Monitors on the vehicle are active
and performing their diagnostic testing, and no DTCs
are present).
4. YELLOW LED - Indicates there is a possible problem. A
“Pending” DTC is present and/or some of the vehicle’s
emission monitors are in a “Monitor Incomplete” status
– monitors have not completed their diagnostic testing
routine.
5. RED LED - Indicates there is a problem in one or more
of the vehicle’s systems. The red LED is also used
to show that DTC(s) are present. DTCs are shown
on the Code Reader’s LCD display. In this case, the
Malfunction Indicator (“Check Engine”) lamp on the
vehicle’s instrument panel will light steady on.
6. LCD Display - Displays test results, Code Reader
functions and Monitor status information. See DISPLAY
FUNCTIONS, below, for details.
7. OBD2 CABLE - Connects the Code Reader to the
vehicle’s Data Link Connector (DLC).
Figure 1. Controls and Indicators
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
INTRODUCTION
Tool Display Functions
6
TOOL DISPLAY FUNCTIONS
See Figure 2 for the locations of items 1 through 14
below.
1. I/M MONITOR STATUS eld - Identies the I/M
Monitor status area.
2. Monitor icons - Indicate which Monitors are supported
by the vehicle under test, and whether or not the
associated Monitor has completed its diagnostic
testing (Monitor status). When a Monitor icon is solid,
it indicates that the associated Monitor has completed
its diagnostic testing. When a Monitor icon is ashing,
it indicates that the vehicle supports the associated
Monitor, but the Monitor is “Incomplete” – monitor has
not completed its diagnostic testing routine.
NOTE: The I/M Monitor Status icons are
associated with INSPECTION and MAINTENANCE (I/M) READINESS STATUS. Some
states require that all vehicle Monitors have run and completed their diagnostic
testing before a vehicle can be tested for Emissions (Smog Check). A maximum
of fteen Monitors are used on OBD2 systems. Not all vehicles support all fteen
Monitors. When the Code Reader is linked to a vehicle, only the icons for Monitors
that are supported by the vehicle under test are visible on the display.
3. Link icon - Indicates whether or not the Code Reader is communicating (linked) with the vehicle’s on-board
computers. When visible, the Code Reader is communicating with the computers. If the Link icon is not visible,
the Code Reader is not communicating with the vehicle’s computers.
4. Vehicle icon - Indicates whether or not the Code Reader is being properly powered through the vehicle’s
Data Link Connector (DLC). A visible icon indicates that the Code Reader is being powered through the vehicle’s
DLC connector.
5.
MIL icon - Indicates the status of the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL). The MIL icon is visible only when a
DTC has commanded the MIL on the vehicle’s dashboard to light.
6. STORED Icon – Indicates the currently displayed DTC is a “Stored” code.
7. FREEZE FRAME icon - Indicates that “Freeze Frame” data has been stored in the vehicle’s computer for the
currently displayed DTC.
8. PENDING icon - Indicates the currently displayed DTC is a “Pending” code.
9. PERMANENT icon - Indicates the currently displayed DTC is a “Permanent” code.
10. DTC Display Area - Displays the Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) number. Each fault is assigned a code number
that is specic to that fault.
11. Code Number Sequence - The Code Reader assigns a sequence number to each DTC that is present in the
computer’s memory, starting with “01.” This helps keep track of the number of DTCs present in the computer’s
memory. Code number ”01” is always the highest priority code, and the one for which “Freeze Frame” data has
been stored.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
9
10
11
12
13
14
8
Figure 2. Tool Display Functions
7
INTRODUCTION
FIX For DTCs – The RepairSolutions2® App
12. Code Enumerator - Indicates the total number of codes retrieved from the vehicle’s computer.
13. Severity - Indicates the level of severity for the priority code (code number “1”), as follows:
Severity 1: This fault typically does not cause damage to components and should be serviced
when convenient.
Severity 2: This fault may pose damage to components and should be repaired as soon as
possible.
Severity 3: This fault will cause damage to components and should be repaired immediately.
14.
Bluetooth icon – Indicates communication status with a compatible BLCKTEC mobile application, like
RepairSolutions2
®
. When ON, indicates an active Bluetooth connection has been established. When OFF,
indicates Bluetooth is not connected.
FIX FOR DTCs –
The RepairSolutions2
®
APP
RepairSolutions2
®
(RS2) is a web-based service created to assist Do-it-Yourselfers
and Professional technicians simplify their vehicle diagnostic process. In essence, RS2
helps you decode the diagnostic data collected by your BLCKTEC™ OBD2 Tool to
arrive at a most likely x. At its core, RS2 uses a database of millions of real-world
veried xes–collected over the last 25 years by ASE Master Technicians across the
U.S.– that is cross-referenced to your specic vehicle’s problem to instantly arrive at a
veried x. Think of RS2 as your personalized technician to help diagnose, repair, and
maintain your vehicle(s).
EVERY RepairSolutions2
®
REPORT PROVIDES���
Verified Fixes – Find the most likely xes reported and veried by ASE
Technicians for the retrieved DTCs. Plus, quickly purchase the exact parts
you need right from the app.
Predicted Repairs – With millions of veried repair solutions, get a statistical
probability of what repairs you may need within the next 12 months.
TSBs & Recalls – Learn if there are any special NHTSA safety recalls or
Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued by your vehicle’s manufacturer.
Upcoming Maintenance – View your vehicle manufacturer’s recommended
maintenance intervals. Plus, conveniently purchase the correct maintenance
parts right from the app.
And much more...
HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS
BLCKTEC OBD2 Tool with Bluetooth
®
connectivity
USING THE CODE READER
FIX For DTCs – The RepairSolutions2® App
8
Android or iOS Mobile Device
DOWNLOAD THE APP
Apple iOS Devices (click on the link)
Android Devices (click on the link)
USING THE RS2
APP
1. Retrieve your vehicle’s diagnostic data [See page 9].
2. Download and install the RepairSolutions2
®
app (see above)
3. Launch the RS2 app and log in to your account.
If you have not yet established an account, you must register for a FREE RS2 account before
proceeding.
4. Follow the screen prompts to pair your BLCKTEC Code Reader. Be sure your mobile device is connected to
an available Wi-Fi network.
Begin the pairing process by selecting your handheld tool from the list.
NOTE: The RS2 app can only store up to two Wi-Fi congurations.
5. Once paired, the data from your tool is automatically transferred to the RS2 app to create a report.
NOTE: If the data does not automatically transfer, simply keep the app and tool
paired and scan your vehicle again.
9
USING THE CODE READER
Retrieving OBD2 Diagnostic Trouble Codes
USING THE CODE READER
RETRIEVING OBD2 DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES
Never replace a part based only on the DTC definition. Each DTC has a set of testing procedures, instructions
and flow charts that must be followed to confirm the location of the problem. This information is found in the
vehicle’s service manual. Always refer to the vehicle’s service manual for detailed testing instructions.
NOTE: Check your vehicle thoroughly before performing any test.
WARNING: ALWAYS observe safety precautions whenever working on a vehicle.
See SAFETY FIRST! [See page 3] for more information.
1. Turn the ignition OFF.
2. Locate the vehicle’s 16-pin Data Link Connector (DLC).
3. Connect the Code Reader’s cable connector to the vehicle’s DLC. The cable
connector is keyed and will only t one way.
If you have problems connecting the cable connector to the DLC,
rotate the connector 180° and try again. If you still have problems,
check the DLC on the vehicle and on the Code Reader. Refer to your
vehicle’s service manual to properly check the vehicle’s DLC.
After the Code Reader’s test connector is properly connected to the vehicle’s DLC, the Vehicle
icon should display to conrm a good power connection.
4. Turn the ignition on. DO NOT start the engine.
5. The Code Reader will automatically link to the vehicle’s computer(s).
If the LCD display is blank, it indicates there is no power at the vehicle’s
DLC. Check your fuse panel and replace any burned out fuses.
━ If replacing the fuse(s) does not correct the problem, see your
vehicle’s repair manual to locate the proper computer (PCM)
fuse/circuit. Perform any necessary repairs before continuing.
After 4-5 seconds, the Code Reader will retrieve and display any Diagnostic Trouble Codes
that are in the vehicle’s computer memory.
If Error is shown on the Code Reader’s LCD display, it indicates there is a
communication problem. This means that the Code Reader is unable to
communicate with the vehicle’s computer. Do the following:
━ Turn the ignition key off, wait 5 seconds and turn the key back on to reset
the computer.
━ Make sure your vehicle is OBD2 compliant.
6. Read and interpret the Diagnostic Trouble Codes using the LCD display and the green, yellow, and red LEDs.
NOTE: The green, yellow, and red LEDs are used (with the LCD display) as visual
aids to make it easier for the user to determine engine system conditions.
NO Brake Pedal
Tap Button 2 Times
USING THE CODE READER
Erasing Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
10
vehicle’s service manual. Always refer to the vehicle’s service manual for detailed testing instructions.
connector is keyed and will only t one way.
icon should display to conrm a good power connection.
━
━
━
Green LED - Indicates that all engine systems are ”OK” and running normally.
All monitors on the vehicle are active and are performing their diagnostic
testing, and no trouble codes are present. The message 0 DTC will show on
the Code Reader’s LCD display for further conrmation.
Yellow LED - Indicates one of the following conditions:
PENDING CODE PRESENT - If the yellow LED is lit, it may indicate the
existence of a pending code. Check the Code Reader’s LCD display for
conrmation. A pending code is conrmed by the presence of a numeric code
and the word PENDING on the Code Reader’s LCD display. If no pending code
is shown, the yellow LED indicates Monitor Status (see the following).
MONITOR STATUS - If the Code Reader’s LCD display shows the message 0
DTC (indicating there are no DTCs present in the vehicle’s computer), but the
yellow LED is lit, it indicates an “Incomplete Monitor” status. This means that
some of the Monitors on the vehicle have not yet nished their diagnostic self-
testing. This condition is conrmed by one or more blinking Monitor icons on
the LCD display. A blinking Monitor icon means the Monitor has not completed
its diagnostic self-testing. All Monitor icons that are solid have completed their
diagnostic self-testing.
Red LED - Indicates there is a problem with one or more of the vehicle’s
systems. The red LED is also used to show that DTC(s) are present (displayed
on the Code Reader’s LCD display). In this case, the Malfunction Indicator
(Check Engine) lamp on the vehicle’s instrument panel will light steady on.
NOTE: The Code Reader will display a code only if codes are present in
the vehicle’s computer memory. If no codes are present, a “0 DTC” will be
displayed.
7. If more than one code is present, press and release the DTC button, as necessary, to
display additional codes.
8. When the last retrieved DTC has been displayed and the DTC button is pressed, the Code Reader returns to the
“Priority” code.
Reference the RepairSolutions2
®
App [See page 7], for Fault Code Definitions. Match the retrieved DTC(s) with
those listed. Read the associated denition(s), and see the vehicle’s service manual for further evaluation.
ERASING DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTCs)
NOTE: When the Code Reader’s ERASE function is used to erase the DTCs from
the vehicle’s on-board computer, “Freeze Frame” data and manufacturer-specic
enhanced data are also erased.
If you plan to take the vehicle to a Service Center for repair, DO NOT erase the codes from the vehicle’s computer. If
the codes are erased, valuable information that might help the technician troubleshoot the problem will also be erased.
11
USING THE CODE READER
Erasing Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
Erase DTCs from the computer’s memory as follows:
NOTE: When DTCs are erased from the vehicle’s computer memory, the I/M
Readiness Monitor Status program resets status of all the Monitors to a not run
“ashing” condition. To set all of the Monitors to a DONE status, an OBD2 Drive
Cycle must be performed. Refer to your vehicle’s service manual for information on
how to perform an OBD2 Drive Cycle for the vehicle under test.
1. If not connected already, connect the Code Reader to the vehicle’s DLC. (If the Code Reader is already connected
and linked to the vehicle’s computer, proceed directly to step 3. If not, continue to step 2.)
2. Turn the ignition on. DO NOT start the engine. The Code Reader will automatically link to the vehicle’s computer.
To erase OBD2 DTCs: Wait until the codes are displayed on the Code Reader’s LCD and then
proceed to step 3.
3. Press and release the Code Reader’s ERASE button. The LCD display will indicate “ERASE?” for your
conrmation.
If you change your mind and do not wish to erase the codes, press the DTC button to return to
the code retrieval function.
If you wish to continue, press the ERASE button again. The message
ERASE displays while the erase is in progress. When all retrievable information,
including DTCs, has been cleared from the computer’s memory, the Code
Reader will re-link to the vehicle’s computer, and the LCD display will show the
message DONE.
━ If the erase is not successful, the message SENT shows on the Coder
Reader’s display.
The Code Reader will relink to the previously selected module.
NOTE: Erasing DTCs does not x the problem(s) that caused the code(s) to
be set. If proper repairs to correct the problem that caused the code(s) to
be set are not made, the code(s) will appear again (and the Check Engine
light will illuminate) as soon as the vehicle is driven long enough for its Monitors to
complete their testing.
NO Brake Pedal
Tap Button 2 Times
WARRANTY+ CUSTOMER SERVICE
Limited Warranty
12
WARRANTY+ CUSTOMER SERVICE
LIMITED WARRANTY
The Manufacturer warrants to the original purchaser that this unit is free of defects in materials and workmanship under
normal use and maintenance for a period of one (1) year from the date of original purchase.
If the unit fails within the one (1) year period, it will be repaired or replaced, at the Manufacturer’s option, at no charge,
when returned prepaid to the Service Center with Proof of Purchase. The sales receipt may be used for this purpose.
Installation labor is not covered under this warranty. All replacement parts, whether new or remanufactured, assume
as their warranty period only the remaining time of this warranty.
This warranty does not apply to damage caused by improper use, accident, abuse, improper voltage, service, re,
ood, lightning, or other acts of God, or if the product was altered or repaired by anyone other than the Manufacturer’s
Service Center.
The Manufacturer, under no circumstances shall be liable for any consequential damages for breach of any written
warranty of this unit. This warranty gives you specic legal rights, and you may also have rights, which vary from state
to state. This manual is copyrighted with all rights reserved. No portion of this document may be copied or reproduced
by any means without the express written permission of the Manufacturer. THIS WARRANTY IS NOT TRANSFERABLE.
For service, send via U.P.S. (if possible) prepaid to Manufacturer. Allow 3-4 weeks for service/repair.
CUSTOMER SERVICE
Our ASE Certied technical staff is here to help if you have any questions or require service. For information on
UPDATES and OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES, please contact your local store, distributor or BLCKTEC’s Service Center.
USA & Canada: (866) 909-6777
Monday through Friday: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM PST
Saturday: 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM PST
Web: www.blcktec.com
13
GLOSSARY
OBD2 Terminology
GLOSSARY
OBD2 TERMINOLOGY
The following terms and their denitions are related to OBD2 systems.
Powertrain Control Module (PCM) - The PCM is the OBD2 accepted term for the vehicle’s “on-board
computer.” In addition to controlling the engine management and emissions systems, the PCM also
participates in controlling the powertrain (transmission) operation. Most PCMs also have the ability to
communicate with other computers on the vehicle (ABS, ride control, body, etc.).
Monitor - Monitors are “diagnostic routines” programmed into the PCM. The PCM utilizes these programs
to run diagnostic tests, and to monitor operation of the vehicle’s emissions-related components or
systems to ensure they are operating correctly and within the vehicle’s manufacturer specications.
Currently, up to fteen Monitors are used in OBD2 systems. Additional Monitors will be added as the
OBD2 system is further developed.
NOTE: Not all vehicles support all fteen Monitors
Enabling Criteria - Each Monitor is designed to test and monitor the operation of a specic part of the
vehicle’s emissions system (EGR system, oxygen sensor, catalytic converter, etc.). A specic set of
“conditions” or “driving procedures” must be met before the computer can command a Monitor to run
tests on its related system. These “conditions” are known as “Enabling Criteria.” The requirements and
procedures vary for each Monitor. Some Monitors only require the ignition key to be turned “On” for them
to run and complete their diagnostic testing. Others may require a set of complex procedures, such
as, starting the vehicle when cold, bringing it to operating temperature, and driving the vehicle under
specic conditions before the Monitor can run and complete its diagnostic testing.
Complete / Incomplete - The terms “Complete” or “Incomplete” are used throughout this manual.
“Complete,” means the PCM has commanded a particular Monitor to perform the required diagnostic
testing on a system to ensure the system is operating correctly (within factory specications). The term
“Incomplete” means the PCM has not yet commanded a particular Monitor to perform diagnostic testing
on its associated part of the emissions system.
Trip - A Trip for a particular Monitor requires that the vehicle is being driven in such a way that all the
required “Enabling Criteria” for the Monitor to run and complete its diagnostic testing are met. The
“Trip Drive Cycle” for a particular Monitor begins when the ignition key is turned “On.” It is successfully
completed when all the “Enabling Criteria” for the Monitor to run and complete its diagnostic testing
are met by the time the ignition key is turned “Off.” Since each of the fteen monitors is designed to
run diagnostics and testing on a different part of the engine or emissions system, the “Trip Drive Cycle”
needed for each individual Monitor to run and complete varies.
OBD2 Drive Cycle - An OBD2 Drive Cycle is an extended set of driving procedures that takes into
consideration the various types of driving conditions encountered in real life. These conditions may
include starting the vehicle when it is cold, driving the vehicle at a steady speed (cruising), accelerating,
etc. An OBD2 Drive Cycle begins when the ignition key is turned “On” (when cold) and ends when the
vehicle has been driven in such a way as to have all the “Enabling Criteria” met for all its applicable
Monitors. Only those trips that provide the Enabling Criteria for all Monitors applicable to the vehicle to
run and complete their individual diagnostic tests qualify as an OBD2 Drive Cycle. OBD2 Drive Cycle
requirements vary from one model of vehicle to another. Vehicle manufacturers set these procedures.
GLOSSARY
OBD2 Monitors
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Consult your vehicle’s service manual for OBD2 Drive Cycle procedures.
NOTE: Do not confuse a “Trip” Drive Cycle with an OBD2 Drive Cycle. A “Trip” Drive
Cycle provides the “Enabling Criteria” for one specic Monitor to run and complete
its diagnostic testing. An OBD2 Drive Cycle must meet the “Enabling Criteria” for all
Monitors on a particular vehicle to run and complete their diagnostic testing.
Warm-up Cycle - Vehicle operation after an engine off period where engine temperature rises at least
40°F (22°C) from its temperature before starting, and reaches at least 160°F (70°C). The PCM uses
warm-up cycles as a counter to automatically erase a specic code and related data from its memory.
When no faults related to the original problem are detected within a specied number of warm-up cycles,
the code is erased automatically.
OBD2 MONITORS
To ensure the correct operation of the various emissions-related components and systems, a diagnostic program was
developed and installed in the vehicle’s on-board computer. The program has several procedures and diagnostic
strategies. Each procedure or diagnostic strategy is made to monitor the operation of, and run diagnostic tests on, a
specic emissions-related component or system. These tests ensure the system is running correctly and is within the
manufacturer’s specications. On OBD2 systems, these procedures and diagnostic strategies are called “Monitors.”
Currently, fteen Monitors are supported by OBD2 systems. Additional monitors may be added because of Government
regulations as the OBD2 system grows and matures. Not all vehicles support all fteen Monitors. Additionally, some
Monitors are supported by “spark ignition” vehicles only, while others are supported by “compression ignition” vehicles
only.
Monitor operation is either “Continuous” or “Non-Continuous,” depending on the specic monitor.
CONTINUOUS MONITORS
Three of these Monitors are designed to constantly monitor their associated components and/or systems for proper
operation. Continuous Monitors run constantly when the engine is running.
= Comprehensive Component Monitor
= Misre Monitor
= Fuel System Monitor
NON-CONTINUOUS MONITORS
The other twelve Monitors are “non-continuous” Monitors. “Non-continuous” Monitors perform and complete their
testing once per trip.
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GLOSSARY
Additional Terminology + Acronyms
= Oxygen Sensor Monitor
= Oxygen Sensor Heater Monitor
= Catalyst Monitor
= Heated Catalyst Monitor
= EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) System Monitor
= EVAP System Monitor
= Secondary Air System Monitor
NOTE: The following Monitors became standard beginning in 2010. The majority of
vehicles produced before this time will not support these Monitors.
= NMHC (Non-Methane Hydrocarbon Converting) Catalyst Monitor
= NOx/SCR Aftertreatment Monitor
= Boost Pressure System Monitor
= Exhaust Gas Sensor Monitor
= PM (Particulate Matter) Filter Monitor
ADDITIONAL TERMINOLOGY + ACRONYMS
ABS = Anti-Lock Brakes
DLC = Data Link Connector (vehicle’s data port)
DTC = Diagnostic Trouble Codes
MIL = Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Check Engine Light)
OBD = On Board Diagnostics
OBD2 / OBD II = On Board Diagnostics, Second Generation
TSBs = Technical Service Bulletins
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