The OBD System Check determines:
- If Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) works.
- If PCM/VCM is operating and can recognize a fault.
- If any Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are stored.
After performing procedures in PRELIMINARY INSPECTION & ADJUSTMENTS, BASIC FUEL SYSTEM CHECKS and BASIC IGNITION SYSTEM CHECKS, this is the starting point for utilizing the self-diagnostic system for determining computer-related problems. After performing necessary tests as described in the OBD system circuit check, if no codes are indicated and driveability problems still exist, see testing procedures in the TESTS W/O CODES article and SCAN TOOL usage in the TESTS W/CODES article.
- Turn ignition on with engine off. Observe Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL). If MIL illuminates, go to next step. If MIL does not illuminate, go to MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT (MIL) .
- Turn ignition off. Install Tech 1 scan tool and follow scan tool manufacturer's instructions to proceed with test. Turn ignition on. If scan tool displays PCM data, go to next step. If scan tool does not display PCM data, go to DLC DIAGNOSIS OR NO SCAN TOOL DATA .
- Attempt to start engine. If engine starts and runs, go to next step. If engine does not start, or starts and dies, go to NO-START DIAGNOSIS .
- Using scan tool, observe DTC status LAST TST FAIL function. If any DTC is stored, save freeze frame and fail record information using CAPTURE INFO feature. If a DTC is indicated as last test failed, diagnose affected DTC. See the TESTS W/CODES article. If DTC is not indicated, go to next step.
- Using scan tool, display DTC fail records. If a DTC fail record is stored, save freeze frame and fail record information using scan tool CAPTURE INFO feature. If a fail record is stored, diagnose affected DTC. See the TESTS W/CODES article. If DTC is not indicated, go to next step.
- Compare scan tool engine data with actual control system data values. If value is within limits, system is okay. If value is not within limits, go to the SYSTEM/COMPONENT TESTS article.