Diagnostic Trouble Codes: Notes
Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) are codes stored by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) that help us diagnose Powertrain, Transmission and Transfer case problems. They are viewed using the DRBIII® scan tool. Always begin by performing a visual inspection of the wiring, connectors, fluid level, cooler lines, engine, and the transmission. Any obvious wiring problems or leaks should be repaired prior to performing any diagnostic test procedures. Some engine driveability problems can be misinterpreted as a transmission problem. Ensure that the engine is running properly and that no engine DTCs are present that could cause a transmission complaint. If there is a communication bus problem, trouble codes will not be accessible until the problem is fixed. The DRBIII® will display an appropriate message. The following is a possible list of causes for a bus problem:
- open or short to ground/battery in PCI bus circuit.
- internal failure of any module or component on the bus
Each diagnostic trouble code is diagnosed by following a specific testing sequence. The diagnostic test procedures contain step-by-step instructions for determining the cause of a transmission diagnostic trouble code. Possible sources of the code are checked and eliminated one by one. It is not necessary to perform all of the tests in this service information to diagnose an individual code. These tests are based on the problem being present at the time that the test is run.
If the Engine or Transmission records a DTC that will adversely affect vehicle emissions, it will request (via the communication bus) that the PCM illuminate the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL). Although these DTCs will be stored in the PCM immediately as a 1 trip failure, it may take up to five minutes of accumulated trouble confirmation to set the DTC and illuminate the MIL. Three consecutive successful OBDII/EURO III trips or clearing the DTCs with a diagnostic tool (DRBIII® or equivalent) is required to extinguish the MIL. When the Transmission requests that the PCM illuminate the MIL, the PCM sets a DTC P0700 ($89) to alert the technician that there are DTCs in the Transmission. The PCM DTC ($89) must also be erased in the PCM in order to extinguish the MIL.