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Diagnosis System

  1. DESCRIPTION 
    1. When troubleshooting OBD II (On-Board Diagnostics) vehicles, an intelligent tester (complying with SAE J1987) must be connected to the DLC3 (Data Link Connector 3) of the vehicle. Various data in the vehicle's ECM (Engine Control Module) can be then read.
    2. OBD II regulations require that the vehicle's onboard computer illuminates the MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) on the instrument panel when the computer detects a malfunction in:
      1. The emission control systems and components
      2. The power train control components (which affect vehicle emissions)
      3. The computer itself

        In addition, the applicable DTCs (Diagnostic Trouble Codes) prescribed by SAE J2012 are recorded on 3 consecutive trips, the MIL turns off automatically but the DTCs remain recorded in the ECM memory.

        Fig 1: Identifying (Mil) Malfunction Indicator Lamp
        G04828032Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
    3. To check for DTCs, connect an intelligent tester to the DLC3. The tester displays DTCs, freeze frame data, and a variety of engine data. The DTCs and freeze frame data can be erased with the tester (See DTC CHECK/CLEAR  ).
      Fig 2: Connecting Intelligent Tester To DLC3
      G05267987Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002

      In order to enhance OBD function on vehicles and develop the Off-Board diagnosis system, CAN communication is introduced in this system (CAN: Controller Area Network). It minimizes a gap between technician skills and vehicle technology. CAN is a network, which uses a pair of data transmission lines, spanning multiple computers and sensors. It allows a high speed communication between the systems and to simplify the wire harness connection.

      Since this system is equipped with the CAN communication, connecting the CAN VIM (VIM: Vehicle Interface Module) with an intelligent tester is necessary to display any information from the ECM. (Also the communication between the intelligent tester and the ECM uses CAN communication signal.) When confirming the DTCs and any data of the ECM, connect the CAN VIM between the DLC3 and the intelligent tester.

      Fig 3: Identifying DLC3 Connector
      G04996211Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
  2. NORMAL MODE AND CHECK MODE 
    1. The diagnosis system operates in normal mode during normal vehicle use. In normal mode, 2 trip detection logic is used to ensure accurate detection of malfunctions. Check mode is also available as an option for technicians. In check mode, 1 trip detection logic is used for simulating malfunction symptoms and increasing the system's ability to detect malfunctions, including intermittent problems (intelligent tester only) (See CHECK MODE PROCEDURE  ).
  3. TRIP DETECTION LOGIC 
    1. When a malfunction is first detected, the malfunction is temporarily stored in the ECM memory (1st trip). If the same malfunction is detected during the next subsequent drive cycle, the MIL is illuminated (2nd trip).
  4. FREEZE FRAME DATA 
    1. The ECM records vehicle and driving condition information as freeze frame data the moment a DTC is stored. When troubleshooting, freeze frame data can be helpful in determining whether the vehicle was running or stopped, whether the engine was warmed up or not, whether the air-fuel ratio was lean or rich, as well as other data recorded at the time of a malfunction.
  5. DLC3 (Data Link Connector 3) 
    1. The vehicle's ECM uses ISO 15765-4 for communication protocol. The terminal arrangement of the DLC3 complies with SAE J1962 and matches the ISO 15765-4 format.
      Fig 4: Identifying DLC3 Connector Terminals
      G04828034Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002
      DLC3 TERMINALS REFERENCE

      Symbols Terminal No. Names Reference terminals Results Conditions
      SIL 7 Bus "+" line 5 - Signal ground Pulse generation During transmission
      CG 4 Chassis ground Body ground Below 1 Ω Always
      SG 5 Signal ground Body ground Below 1 Ω Always
      BAT 16 Battery positive Body ground 10 to 14 V Always
      CANH 6 CAN "High" line 14-CANL 54 to 69 Ω Ignition switch off(1)
      CANH 6 CAN "High" line Battery positive 200 Ω or more Ignition switch off(1)
      CANH 6 CAN "High" line 4-CG 200 Ω or more Ignition switch off(1)
      CANL 14 CAN "Low" line Battery positive 6 kΩ or higher Ignition switch off(1)
      CANL 14 CAN "Low" line 4-CG 6 kΩ or higher Ignition switch off(1)
      (1) Before measuring the resistance leave the vehicle as is for at least 1 minute and do not operate the ignition switch, any after switches or the doors.

      HINT:

      The DLC3 is the interface prepared for reading various data from the vehicle's ECM. After connecting the cable of an intelligent tester, turn the ignition switch to the ON position and turn the tester ON.

      • If a communication failure message is displayed on the tester screen (on the tester: UNABLE TO CONNECT TO VEHICLE), a problem exists in either the vehicle or tester. In order to identify the location of the problem, connect the tester to another vehicle.
      • If communication is normal: Inspect the DLC3 on the original vehicle.
      • If communication is impossible: The problem is probably in the tester itself. Consult the Service Department listed in the instruction manual.
  6. BATTERY VOLTAGE 

    Battery Voltage: 

    11 to 14 V 

    If the voltage is below 11V, recharge the battery before proceeding to the next step.

  7. MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) 
    1. The MIL is illuminated when the ignition switch is first turned to the ON position (the engine is not running).
    2. The MIL should turn off when the engine is started. If the MIL remains illuminated, the diagnosis system has detected a malfunction or abnormality in the system.

      HINT:

      If the MIL is not illuminated when the ignition switch is first turned to the ON position, check the MIL circuit (See MIL CIRCUIT  ).