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Scanner Operations
Operations
The large end of the auxiliary power cable plugs into the vehicle accessory port. The small end of
the cable fits into a power port built into the side of the cable adapter. An in-line fuse on the
auxiliary cable provides circuit protection.
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To connect the data cable to the vehicle:
1. Follow the on-screen instructions for connecting to the vehicle (
).
2. Once connected, select
Continue
.
The scan tool establishes communication then displays a list of available tests. If the scan tool
is unable to establish a communications link, a no communications message displays.
3. Select an available tests to open a menu of options.
5.2.2 No Communication Message
When the screen displays a no communication message, it means the scan tool and the vehicle
control module cannot communicate with each other for some reason.
The following conditions cause a no communication message to display:
•
The scan tool is unable to establish a communication link with the vehicle.
•
You selected a system for testing that the vehicle is not equipped with (such as ABS).
•
There is a loose connection.
•
There is a blown vehicle fuse.
•
There is a wiring fault on the vehicle.
•
There is a circuit fault in the data cable or adapter.
•
Incorrect vehicle identification was entered.
Refer to the Vehicle Communication Software manuals for the manufacturer of the test vehicle for
additional troubleshooting information.
5.3 Operations
The scan tool allows you to establish a data link to the electronic control systems of the vehicle in
order to view live data parameters, perform tests, get vehicle-specific trouble codes for the various
vehicle control systems such as engine, transmission, antilock brake system (ABS), and more.
After a system is selected and the scan tool establishes communication with the vehicle, a Main
menu, which lists available tests, displays.
Main menu options vary slightly by the year, make, and model. The main menu may include:
•
Data Display
displays data parameter information from the vehicle control module. Selecting
may open a submenu of viewing options.
•
Service Codes
displays diagnostic trouble code (DTC) records from the vehicle control
module. Selecting may open a submenu of viewing options.
•
Clear Codes
erases DTC records and other data from the ECM. This selection is found on a
Codes submenu for some models.
•
Generic Functions
lets you access certain available Generic OBD II functions from a
proprietary menu (1996 and newer vehicles only).