Mode 6: Introduction

Mode 6 is designed to allow access to the results of onboard diagnostic monitoring tests of specific components/systems that are not continuously monitored. These systems include the catalytic converter, EVAP system, oxygen sensor, oxygen sensor heater, EGR system, secondary AIR system, and sometimes misfire.

Mode 6 data is output from the PCM/ECM in hexadecimal form. The $ sign indicates a hexadecimal number. Depending on the software in the scanner, the output could be displayed in hexadecimal numbers (no conversion), raw data (conversion to decimal numbers), or measurable values (applying conversion factor to raw data).

Before reading mode 6 information, ensure that the monitor for the information you are accessing has run to completion. If the monitor is not complete, the mode 6 data will not be accurate.