FULL ONE (1) YEAR WARRANTY Actron Manufacturing Company, 15825 Industrial Parkway, Cleveland, Ohio 44135, warrants to the user that this unit will be free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of two (2) years from the date of original purchase. Any unit that fails within this period will be repaired or replaced at Actron’s option and without charge when returned to the Factory. Actron requests that a copy of the original, dated sales receipt be returned with the unit to determine if the warranty period is still in effect. This warranty does not apply to damages caused by accident, alterations, or improper or unreasonable use. ACTRON MANUFACTURING COMPANY DISCLAIMS ANY LIABILITY FOR INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES FOR BREACH OF ANY WRITTEN WARRANTY ON THE UNIT. Vehicle Service Information.. 2 Safety Precautions....

3 Section 1: Welcome to The Scan Tool. 4 1-1Features.....

4 1-2The scan tool.... 5 1-3What You Get....

Serial No: SW ID: Refer to section 3-7 to get the Serial Number (Serial No) and Software Identification (SW ID.) If you have. Descargar Drivers Portatil Ahtec there. • Website: www.actron.com.

6 1-4Cartridge and Installation.. 6 1-5Cables and Adapters... 7 1-6Operating the scan tool.. 9 • Powering-upthe scan tool.

9 • Keyboard.... 9 • Display..... 10 • Lists, Menus, & Questions. 10 • Other Functions & Keys. 11 1-7Scan Tool Setup... 12 Section 2: Computer Vehicle Basics. 13 2-1Basics of Computer- Controlled Cars...

13 2-2About Codes.... 16 2-3When to Read Codes.. Section 3: Help and Troubleshooting Tips..... 19 3-1Tool Problems....

19 3-2Car Problems.... 20 3-3 Scan Tool Self-Tests... 20 • Display Test.... 21 • Keyboard Test...

21 • Memory Test... 21 Section 4: How to Order Accessories... 22 4-1 Where to Buy?...

22 4-2 Call Actron Direct... 23 4-3 E-Mail& Internet address.. 23 Section 5: Appendix....

24 Glossary of Terms.... 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 Motor’s Auto Repair Manual Hearst Company 250 W.

55th Street New York, NY 10019 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. Vehicle Service Manuals from General Motors Corporation: 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 Vehicle Service Manuals from Ford Motor Company: Ford, Lincoln, & Mercury Ford Publication Department Helm Incorporated Post Office Box 07150 Detroit, MI 48207 Vehicle Service Manuals from Chrysler Corporation: Chrysler, Plymouth, & Dodge Chrysler Motors Service Training 26001 Lawrence Avenue Center Line, MI 48015.

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 Actron Manufacturing Co. Or anyone connected with it for loss or damages suffered through reliance on any information contained in this manual or misuse of accompanying product. Actron Manufacturing Co. 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. • Always wear approved eye protection. • Always operate the vehicle in a well-ventilatedarea.

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. This includes the scan tool and Application Cartridges. • Never smoke or have open flames near vehicle.

Vapors from gasoline and 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 scan tool. • Always turn ignition key OFF when connecting or disconnecting electrical components, unless otherwise instructed. • Always follow vehicle manufacturer’s warnings, cautions and service procedures.

1-2The Scan Tool Actron’s scan tool was developed by experts in the automotive service industry to help you diagnose today’s vehicles and assist you in trouble-shootingprocedures. Computer-controlledvehicles have a network of sensors that creates a series of inputs to the engine computer. The computer interprets these inputs and sends outputs (commands) back to the network to control air, fuel, vacuum, spark and other critical functions.

When a problem occurs, the computer will store a record of the event, and take corrective action to adjust the circuit at fault. If the circuit does not respond, or the problem cannot be corrected, a trouble code is stored in the computer’s memory. In some cases, the Check Engine light may also be activated. The scan tool will allow you to monitor these vehicle events for trouble-shootingand diagnosis, and to read codes from the computer’s memory to pinpoint problem areas. The scan tool uses state-of-the-art16 “bit” microprocessor technology and has twice the computing power of some scan tools costing thousands of dollars! The scan tool is programmed to interpret the computer signals and provide you with a “real time” readout of vehicle data.

More importantly, the software programs are written to provide you with detailed, full-screenreadouts of all data. In addition, the Code.

Lookup feature allows you to reference code descriptions without having to page through an instruction manual. When the scan tool is connected to the data connector, a communication link is established, allowing the scan tool and the vehicle’s on-boardcomputer to exchange information. The way in which this information is exchanged is referred to as a data stream. As you use the scan tool, you will become more proficient in trouble-shootingvehicles using the detailed help messages and code description information. Actron will also help you become skilled in using the scan tool for more than just “scanning” the vehicle data list. We will show you many other uses that will expand your diagnostic limits by using the information contained in the application manuals that come with your Application Cartridge.

Nostart, driveability, and emission problems will be easier to diagnose than ever before. When you receive your scan tool, take time to review all package contents. The Application Cartridge serial tag is located on the top center of the cartridge.

This serial tag will always be visible when the cartridge is inserted in the main tool. Please take time to review all important documents enclosed. Be sure to review both boxes for contents.

Review Box Contents Main Tool Box In addition to the scan tool you should have received the following items in the main tool box: • The Scan Tool • Carrying Pouch • Power Cable • Main Tool Operator's manual Application Cartridge Box The Application Cartridge box that you purchased should contain the following items: • The Application Cartridge • Vehicle Cable Adapter • Application Manual for that vehicle. CP9189 PATENT PENDING © COPYRIGHT 1995 Actron Manufacturing warrants the software programs to be accurate to the level of information released by the Vehicle manufacturer at the time of release.

(800) 228-7667 1-2325 Main Tool Model and Serial Tag MODEL NO. COPYRIGHT1995 CP9111 © PATENTPENDING 1234-1995GM Cartridge Model and Serial Tag Before You Start Take time to review the proper procedure for powering-upyour scan tool. The following section, Cartridge and Installation, should be read before proceeding! This will help you become familiar with all operating procedures. The scan tool comes with a main power cable designed to plug into the vehicle cigarette lighter.Theotherendofthecableplugsintothe scan tool as shown below. Connecting to Vehicle Cigarette Lighter TFEL THGIR NWOD yb PU ® ® MT Connecting to Scan Tool Occasionally, you may find it necessary to connect directly to the vehicle’s battery.

In these cases you may obtain an optional battery clip adapter from Actron. Actron also offers an AC power adapter to power the scan tool with standard 110V wall power. Both of these accessories may be purchased directly from Actron. Your scan tool has been designed to operate at the same voltage levels as your vehicle’s computer. It requires a minimum of 8 volts to power-up.The scan tool is circuit protected from voltage variations and power surges.

Should you have a problem with power-up,review Section 3-1: Tool Problems to verify the nature of your problem. NOTE: Some vehicles shut off power to the cigarette lighter receptacle when the ignition key is in the OFF or START positions.Checkyourvehicletodeterminewhether this is the case. Optional Battery Clip by UP DOWN RIGHT LEFT AC 110V to 12V 1984 -1995GM Power Adapter. Vehicle Cable Adapters Your scan tool Vehicle Ap- plication Cartridge pack will contain the Applica- tion Cartridge, application manual and vehicle cable adapter for one manufac- turer (GM, Ford, or Chrysler). The vehicle cable adapter will be in- stalled on the scan tool by Connecting the locating the large connec- Vehicle Adapter Cable tor receptacle on the top right side of the main tool. Insert the vehicle cable into When attaching the data cable to the ve- the scan tool receptacle and use the two hicle, take time to review the specific ap- “thumb screws” to secure it to the connec- plication manual for the cartridge you are tor as shown in the illustration below.

This will instruct you on correctly that you will feel a firm seating of the cable connecting the cable to the vehicle. Many as you secure it to the scan tool connector. Of the vehicle adapters are “keyed” so that The vehicle cable adapter should always the adapter will fit only one way.

If you find be connected to the vehicle before power that you have a special vehicle situation or is applied to the scan tool. This will enable the adapter does not fit, call 1-800- the scan tool to maintain a proper ground ACTRON-7for assistance. Always double between itself and the vehicle. If you have check the application section to be sure connected to the vehicle, powered-upthe that you are following the proper hook-up tool, and have difficulty establishing a link directions. For further help that is not avail- between the scan tool and the vehicle, able in the scan tool help screens, see check the following: Section 3: Actron Help for solutions to 1.

Is the ignition on? Your scan tool problems.

Verify you have connected the vehicle As you review the CP9110 Features sec- tion on page 1-1and 1-2,you will note data cable to the vehicle’s Data Link there is a complete view of accessory Connector (DLC). Vehicle adapter cables.

They are for spe- 3. Confirm that proper vehicle information cial applications that only apply to certain vehicles. If your vehicle is one of these, was entered into scan tool. You can order cables direct from Actron by calling (800) 228-7667.

Powering-upthe scan tool The scan tool can be powered-upin three ways. The most widely used way is with the supplied cigarette lighter adapter.

The scan tool can also be powered up by using the optional Battery Clip Adapter or 110/12V AC Power Adapter. If you are poweringup the scan tool for vehicle testing, then make sure you connect the appropriate cable to the data connector before you supply power to the scan tool. If you do not connect the vehicle data cable now, the scan tool will let you know that you have not connected the data cable.

If you just want to power-upthe scan tool to do self-tests,then you do not need to attach the cable to the data connector. When the scan tool powers-up,a series of screens is displayed.

The screens start with a “Welcome” screen and end with a “Key Button Help” screen. WelcomeTo TheScanTool ByActron PressHELPForKey ButtonInformation. PressENTERToCont Welcome & Key Button Help Screens The screens in between the “Welcome” and the “Key Button Help” screen are for a tool self-testand the cartridge software version. Refer to this software version if you need to contact Actron’s technical support line with a problem. If you wish to review the key button definitions, then push the HELP key; otherwise, press ENTER to continue forward.

DOWN RIGHT LEFT Keyboard Functions The scan tool uses 8 keys to navigate through the software-userinterface: ENTER Used to enter or answer a software request. HELP Used to request help when the symbol is in the upper right hand corner of the display. FUNCTION Used to return user to manufacturer’s function list. BACKUP Used to move one screen back in scan tool flow. ARROWS UP or DOWN are always 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 or RIGHT arrows move the cursor in the direction of the arrow and allow you to customize a vehicle data parameter list. Display The scan tool has a 4 line x 20 character liquid crystal display (LCD) for easy viewing. This makes the scan tool “user friendly” by offering a large viewing area to display most Help and Instructional messages.

This also puts more information on the display instead of referring you to printed materials. Canon Vixia Hr300 Manual Transfer more. Again the display will support a number of helpful characters that will prompt you through test routines. These characters are shown below: Question Mark in upper right corner means there is help available for this screen.

Bell in lower right corner means the sound alert is on or active. Cursor used to select menu choice. Down Arrow indicates there is additional information on the next screen. Up Arrow indicates there is additional information on previous screen(s).

Below is a screen showing how these symbols will look on your display ( NOTE: This is a GM Function List – Function Lists for other manufacturers may differ slightly.): GM Function List 4)Record Data 5)Playback Data 6)Field Service. ( NOTE: This is a GM Function List – Function Lists for other manufacturers may differ slightly.): GM Function List 1)ReadCodes 2)Erase Codes 3)View Data Note how the cursor is pointing at 1) Read Codes. If you wish to read trouble codes, press ENTER to select that function. To make a different choice, such as viewing data, use the DOWN arrow key to move the cursor down next to 3) 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 these cases, the down arrow symbol ( ) is visible in the last column of the display, indicating that there are more choices on the next screen: GM Function List 1)ReadCodes 2)Erase Codes 3)View Data To go to the next choice, use the DOWN arrow key to move the cursor down the list. NOTE: Pressing the DOWN arrow key moves the function list one line at a time. After several DOWN arrow key presses, the screen below appears.

GM Function List 7)BeeperOn-Off 8)English-Metric9)Code Lookup Notice now that there is only an arrow pointing up in the last column. This indicates that you have reached the end of this list, and that all other choices are on previous screens. You can return to those screens by pressing the UP arrow key.

( NOTE: This is a GM Function List – Function Lists for other manufacturers may differ slightly.). These up and down arrow characters on the screen are used throughout the scan tool’s software. The UP and Down arrow keys work exactly the same way, even if you are just scrolling through text such as the On-LineHelp screen shown below: 3.TESTCONNECTOR: DAMAGED/LOOSEPINS?

Note that there are no choices to make here, and that there is no cursor to move. There are, however, up and down arrows in the last column. These arrows indicate that there are other screens before and after this one. Using the UP and DOWN arrow keys, you can scroll through the entire message.

Occasionally, you may be asked a question by the scan tool which requires a response. These will always be YES or NO questions, and are answered in almost the same way you make choices on a Function List. Below is an example of a YES/NO question: ViewInstructions ForCreatingCustom DataList? In these screens, brackets will automatically be next to the default response.

If you wish to accept the default choice, simply press ENTER. If you wish to change the answer, use the LEFT or RIGHT arrow key to move the brackets next to the other response and press ENTER. Other Functions & Keys As you have reviewed moving through lists and functions in earlier sections, you probably noticed several other symbols on the screen. In the upper right-handcorner of some screens, there is a large. This question mark indicates that On-Line Help is available for that particular screen: Operating Error. No To enter On-LineHelp, press the HELP key. For the screen above, the help message would look like this: RECHECKFOLLOWING: 1.IGNITIONKEYON?

2.HOOKUPTOVEHICLE TESTCONNECTOROK? All On-LineHelp screens have their text typed in ALL CAPITAL LETTERS. This is another reminder that you are viewing OnLine Help screens and not screens associated with a function of the Function List. Some On-LineHelp messages are longer than one screen. If this is the case, the arrow symbols ( ) will appear in the last column of the display. A means there is more On-LineHelp information available on the next screen. A means there is more On-LineHelp information available on the previous screen.

Use the UP and DOWN arrow keys to page up or down through a series of On-LineHelp screens. The On-LineHelp screen shown above has a in the last column. To view the next On-LineHelp screen, press the DOWN arrow key.

That screen is shown below: 3.TESTCONNECTOR: DAMAGED/LOOSEPINS? Notice now that both arrow symbols ( ) are visible in the last column of the display. This indicates that you can either page up to a previous On-LineHelp screen, or page down to the next On-LineHelp screen by using the UP and DOWN arrow keys. The previous On-LineHelp screen is always the one you just viewed, just as with Function Lists. Another symbol on the screen you might have noticed is the bell ( ) symbol in the lower right-handcorner as shown below: PressHELPForKey ButtonInformation. PressENTERToCont This bell symbol indicates that the sound alert is on or active.

Each time you press a key, you should hear a beep. If you do not see this symbol, then the keys should remain silent when pressed. Information on changing this setting is found in section 1-7:Scan Tool Setup. 1-7:ScanTool Setup Tool Setup is used to change the scan tool’s default sound and measurement unit settings. To change the scan tool’s default settings, select the Tool Setup option from the Function List ( NOTE: This is a GM Function List – Function Lists for other manufacturers may differ slightly.): GM Function List 7)BeeperOn-Off 8)English-Metric9)Code Lookup After selecting the Tool Setup option, you are given the choice to change either the ScanTool’s measurement units or whether the beeper will be On or Off. If the bell ( ) symbol appears in the lower right hand corner of the display, then the beeper is turned On. SetupToolFor 1)English/Metric 2)BeeperOn/Off Depending on whether you select English/ Metric or Beeper On/Off, the ScanTool will display one of the following screens: MeasurementUnits English(Default) Metric BeeperSound On(Default) Off.

This section explains the engine computer control system, the types of sensors and how the computer controls engine fuel delivery, idle speed and timing. Additional information may be found in technical support books at your local library or auto parts store. The more you know about the computer system, the better you can diagnose vehicle computer problems. Computer controls were originally installed on vehicles to meet federal government regulations for lower emissions levels and improved fuel economy.

This began in the early 1980’s when basic mechanical systems were no longer able to accurately control key engine parameters. A computer could be programmed to control the engine under various operating conditions, making the engine more reliable. While these early systems were very limited in the scope of their control, providing only 10-14trouble codes, they did help guide the vehicle repair process. Today, computer controls have made cars and trucks faster, cleaner, and more efficient than ever before. In fact, without the government mandates for fuel efficiency and emissions control, cars and trucks today would not be nearly as powerful, reliable, and comfortable as they are. What the computer controls: The main control areas of the vehicle computer are fuel delivery, idle speed, spark advance, and emissions controls.

Some on-boardcomputers may also control the transmission, brakes, and suspension systems as well. What has not changed? A computer-controlledengine is very similar to the older, non-computerizeden- 13. 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. You test and repair these systems just as before. The technical manuals for these components show you how to perform the tests.

Additionally, compression gauges, vacuum pumps, dwell/tach meters, engine analyzers, and timing lights will continue to be used. The Engine Computer Control system The vehicle’s on-boardcomputer, 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 main wiring harness. The PCM is located, in most cases, in the passenger compartment, behind the dashboard or in the “kick panel” position, although some manufacturers locate the computer control module in the engine compartment area. Most PCMs can withstand a lot of vibration and are built to live in a rugged environment.

The PCM is permanently programmed by the factory engineers. The program is a complex list of look-uptables and instructions telling the computer how to control the engine based on various driving conditions. To do its job, the computer uses sensors to know what is happening and then provide instructions back to a network of switches and actuators throughout the vehicle. Sensors, switches, and actuators give the computer information Sensors are devices which measure operating conditions and translate them into signals the computer can understand.

Some examples of sensors: thermistors (for temperature readings), potentiometers (like a throttle position sensor), relays (for voltage and signal readings), and signal generators (such as an 02 sensor). The network of sensors has the job of delivering information the computer needs to know by converting it into electrical signals the computer can understand.

Signals running from sensors to the PCM are referred to as “inputs.” Sensors monitor key things such as: • Engine Temperature • Intake Manifold Vacuum • Throttle position • RPM • Incoming Air Temperature • Volume of Incoming air • Air Fuel Ratio, in percentage (% ) INPUT SENSORS OUTPUT BRAINS OF THE ACTUATORS COMPUTER. How the computer controls fuel delivery Engine operation and emissions performance depend upon precise fuel delivery and ignition control. Early computer systems controlled fuel by electronically adjusting the carburetor metering and jet systems. Soon, however, this was replaced by the more precise fuel delivery of fuel injection. In an electronically carbureted system, the computer simply controls fuel flow based on how far the throttle is opened by the driver. The computer “knows” how much air can flow through the carburetor at various throttle openings, and adds the appropriate amount of fuel to the mixture at the carburetor. Fuel injection is somewhat more sophisticated in the way it delivers fuel.

The computer still adds an appropriate amount of fuel to the entering air, but now it uses fuel injectors (either in a throttle body or at each intake port). Fuel injectors are far more precise than carburetor jets, and create a much finer fuel “mist” for better combustion and increased efficiency. In addition, most fuel injection systems have ways of measuring exactly how much air is entering the engine, and can calculate the proper air/fuel ratio using lookup tables. Computers no longer have to “estimate” how much air the engine is using. Switches and Actuators are electric devices energized by the computer to allow commands to perform a specific function. Switches are often called relays (such as the coolant fan switch). Actuators might include solenoids (such as fuel injector valves) and small motors (such as the Idle Speed Control).

Not all of the computer’s outgoing signals are routed to switches and actuators. Sometimes information is sent to other system computers like transmission, brakes, ignition modules, and trip computers. Signals running from the PCM to other components are called “outputs.” 14.

In many modern systems, the computer also uses information provided by sensors to give it an idea of how well it is doing its job, and how to do it better. Sensors can tell the computer how warm the engine is, how rich or lean the fuel mixture is, and whether accessories (like the air conditioner) are running. This feedback information allows the computer to “fine tune” the air/fuel mixture, keeping the engine operating at its peak.

What the Computer needs to know: • Engine operating condition. Sensors used are: coolant temperature, throttle. Position, manifold pressure (vacuum), air flow and RPM. • Air intake. Sensors used are: mass air flow, manifold absolute pressure, manifold air temperature and RPM. • Air/fuel mixture status. Sensors used are: oxygen sensor(s).

NOTE: Not all engines use every sensor listed above. Open and Closed Loop Modes: Open or closed loop operation refers to the way the computer is deciding how much fuel to add to the air entering the engine. During cold start and other low demand, low temperature situations, the computer operates in open loop mode. This means that it is relying on a set of internal calculations and data tables to decide how much fuel to add to the incoming air. It uses sensors such as the coolant temperature sensor (CTS), the throttle position sensor (TPS), and the manifold absolute pressure sensor (MAP) to determine optimum mixtures. The important difference here is that it does not check to see if the mixtures are correct, leaving the computer adjustment loop open.

In closed loop mode, the computer still decides how much fuel to add by using the sensors listed above, and by looking up the appropriate numbers on a data table. However, it now checks itself to determine whether the fuel mixture is correct.

It is able to check itself by using the information provided by the oxygen sensor(s) (O2S) in the exhaust manifold. The oxygen sensors will tell the computer if the engine is running rich or lean, and the computer can take steps to correct the situation. In this way, the computer closes the adjustment loop by checking itself and making necessary corrections. It should be noted that the O2 sensors must be at a very high operating temperature (approximately 650° F) before they will begin to feed information back to the computer. This is why open loop mode is neces. Sary—togive the O2 sensors time to warm up to operating temperature.

As long as the engine and O2 and Coolant Temperature Sensors are at operating temperature, the computer can operate in the closed loop mode. Closed loop mode insures that the air/fuel mixture is at the ideal 14.7:1 air/fuel ratio needed for efficient combustion.

But in stop and go cycles, the O2 sensor may in fact cool down enough that the computer will need to rely on a set of internal parameters and go into open loop mode again. In some cases, this may also happen during extended periods of idling. Many newer vehicles now use heated O2 (HO2S) sensors to prevent this condition.

In many vehicles, the computer controls other systems related to open and closed loop modes, including idle speed, electronic spark control, exhaust gas recirculation, and transmission torque converter clutches. In open loop mode, some of these systems will be adjusted to speed the warming of the engine and get the computer into closed loop mode as quickly as possible. OBD II: The Next Horizon In 1994, many manufacturers began equipping cars with a new class of computer technology which puts more processing power under your dash than ever before. It is called On-BoardDiagnostics, Second Generation, 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 will store a library of 400 general trouble codes and another 400 manufac- turer-specificcodes. These codes cover Body Systems (B-Codes),Chassis Systems (C-Codes),and Power Train Systems. Engine computers can find problems The computer systems in today’s vehicles do more than control engine operations— they can help you find problems, too! Special testing abilities are permanently programmed into the computer by factory engineers. These tests check the components connected to the computer which are used for (typically): fuel delivery, idle speed control, spark timing, emission systems, and transmission shifting.

Mechanics have used these tests for years. Now you can do the same thing by using your Actron scan tool!

Engine computers perform special tests The engine computer runs the special tests, depending on the manufacturer, engine, model year, etc. There is no “universal” test that is the same for all vehicles. The tests examine INPUTS (electrical signals going INTO the computer) and OUTPUTS (electrical signals coming OUT of the computer), as well as internal calculations made by the computer.

Input signals which have “incorrect” values, or output circuits which do not operate properly are noted by the test program and the results are stored in the computer’s memory. These tests are important. The computer cannot control the engine properly if it has incorrect input information or faulty output circuits. Code numbers reveal test results The test results are stored by using code numbers, usually called “trouble codes” or “diagnostic codes.” For example, a code 22 might mean “throttle position sensor signal voltage is too low.” Code meanings are a part of your scan tool’s software—allyou have to do is look them up! But since code definitions vary with manufacturer, model year, and engine, you may also want to refer to a vehicle service manual for additional information. These manuals are available from the manufacturer, other publishers, or your local public library.

See page 2 for more information on ordering service manuals. Read Trouble Codes with the scan tool You can obtain trouble codes from the engine computer memory by using the scan tool. You can also monitor the operation of systems throughout the vehicle, helping to pinpoint the system where there may be a problem.

Once you have read the trouble codes, you can either: • Have your vehicle professionally serviced. Or, • Repair the vehicle yourself using the trouble codes to locate the source of the problem. Trouble Codes and Diagnostics help you fix the problem To find the cause of the problem yourself, you need to perform special test procedures called “diagnostics.” These procedures are in the vehicle service manual, and your scan tool makes it easy to locate and diagnose malfunctioning systems. There are many possible causes for any problem. For example, suppose you turned on a wall switch in your home and the ceiling light did not turn on. Is it a bad bulb or light socket? Are there problems with the wiring or wall switch?

Maybe there is no power coming into the house! As you can see, there are many possible causes. The diagnostics are written for. Servicing a particular trouble code take into account all the possibilities.

If you follow these procedures, you should be able to find the problem causing the code and fix it yourself. Actron makes it easy to fix computercontrolled vehicles Using the Actron scan tool to obtain trouble codes is fast and easy. Trouble codes give you valuable knowledge - whether you go for professional service or do it yourself. Now that you know what trouble codes are and where they come from, you are well on your way to fixing today’s computer-controlledvehicles! Malfunction Indicator Lamp: problem spotted If the Malfunction Indicator Lamp does not come on, you may have an electrical problem which needs repair.

Refer to the “Diagnostic Circuit Check” steps in the “Basic Diagnostic Procedures” section of your vehicle service manual. Malfunction Indicator Lamp: intermittent problem When the light remains ON after the engine is RUNNING: • The computer sees a problem that does not go away (known as a “current” failure). • The light will stay on as long as the problem is present.

• A trouble code is stored in computer memory (a “history” or “memory” code). • Use the scan tool at the earliest convenient time to obtain codes. When the light comes ON, then goes OFF while the engine is running: • The computer saw a problem, but the problem went away (known as an “intermittent” failure). • A trouble code is stored in computer memory (a “history” or “memory” code). • The light went out because the problem went away, but the code stays in memory. • Use the scan tool at the earliest convenient time to obtain codes. NOTE: The computer will automatically erase these codes after several restarts if the problem does not return.

Poorly running engine, no Malfunction Indicator Lamp Most likely, this condition is not due to computer system failures, but reading codes can still be useful as part of a basic trouble-shootingprocedure. Check wiring and bulb for “Check Engine” light failures. Refer to vehicle service manual for additional diagnostic information. IMPORTANT: Some vehicles may not be equipped with Malfunction Indicator Lamps. Some mid-80’sFords, for example, did not use a Malfunction Indicator Lamp to warn of problems. On vehicles without Malfunction Indicator Lamps, it is more difficult to recognize problems. Some symptoms of a computeror sensorrelated problem might be: • Hard starting • Poor idle quality • Poor fuel mileage • Misfiring or hesitation • Black or dark gray smoke from tailpipe • Failure of emissions tests In vehicles without a Malfunction Indicator Lamp, it is important to be alert to any warning signs of computer system trouble.

This is why the scan tool is so valuable. With it, you can diagnose any vehicle’s electronic systems, regardless of whether the vehicle is equipped with a Malfunction Indicator Lamp. It is also important to note that vehicles without Malfunction Indicator Lamps DO store trouble codes just like any other computer-controlledvehicle. Reading codes is still a very important part of diagnosing problems on these vehicles. NOTE: On vehicles equipped with OBD-II,the Malfunction Indicator Lamp also signals an emissions-controlrelated failure. The vehicle may not run any differently, but the OBD-IIsystem is designed to note very small changes in the engine’s operation which could lead to emissions damage or failure.

3-1Tool Problems There may be times when your scan tool does not seem to be communicating with the vehicle. It is possible that the vehicle’s computer will stop communicating, but for the most part, if you loose the “link,” you should check the vehicle power adapter and the cigarette lighter circuit first. Since the scan tool has built-indiagnostics, it is easy to isolate a problem with the ScanTool itself.

There will be two basic types of problems that you will deal with: vehicle problems and tool problems. Both might affect your test. Remember, the scan tool always goes through a SELF CHECK each time you power the unit up, before testing. Use the trouble-shootingtips below to help diagnose scan tool problems before calling Actron’s Technical Support line: 1. The scan tool will not power-up: A. Check the cartridge – Is it properly seated?

Check the cigarette lighter for power. Take the cigarette lighter element and plug it in to verify that it is heating up. If not, check lighter fuse. UN-plugand plug back in to verify the cigarette lighter end is properly seating in. The vehicle cigarette lighter receptacle. Tool will not “Link” to the vehicle computer: A. Unplug the vehicle Data Link Connector (DLC) adapter and plug it back in to verify that it is properly plugged into the vehicle DLC.

Review the vehicle VIN information and verify that you have properly entered the correct vehicle VIN information in the scan tool setup. Also review the Actron supported vehicle list (found in scan tool Application Cartridge manual).

In some GM cars, if there is a Trouble Code set that refers to the internal MEMCAL-PROM,you may not get a vehicle data stream. Your scan tool will not record data: A. Take time to review the vehicle application manual for the vehicle that you are working on. Refer to the data recording section, following the instructions and try again. Verify that the scan tool memory buffer is not already full. Use the scan tool self-testand verify that the on-boardRAM memory is okay.

Your Keyboard does not function properly: A. Perform the Keyboard Test by entering the Self-Testand select the Keyboard Test function. This will test out all buttons along with the sound alert.

If the keyboard test shows nothing and you still experience the problem, then call Actron’s technical support personnel at 1-800-ACTRON-7.

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