Scan Tool Diagnostics: Notes

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2001 GMC Safari and 2001 Chevrolet Astro. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

A scan tool is used to retrieve and clear DTCs. Scan tool also has several features that can be used to help locate an intermittent condition. When scan tool is used for system tests, it will display values actually seen or commanded by various systems (i.e., BCM, PCM, instrument cluster, EBCM or SDM). This will usually include following types of information:

Analog Data Input

Displays analog input seen by system.

Inputs/Outputs

Displays digital values as seen by system, and provides indication of whether input or output has cycled.

Special Functions (Output Controls)

Allows for outputs of system to be set at a desired value (ON or OFF).

Clear Codes

Will erase DTCs for system currently selected (if problem still exists in system, DTC may immediately reset).