Pending Codes

Pending codes appear when a problem is detected in a monitored system. The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is illuminated when a problem is detected in 2 consecutive drive cycles. The pending code is stored in Powertrain Control Module (PCM) during the first drive cycle when a failed system is detected. If a system does not fail during the second drive cycle, PCM concludes that system has returned to normal or problem was mistakenly detected, and deletes pending code. If system failure is detected during a second drive mode, PCM concludes that suspect system has failed, deletes pending code, and illuminates MIL and stores Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC).