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On-Board Diagnostics

The SMEC is equipped with a self-diagnostic system that detects system failures or abnormalities. The self-diagnostic system is divided into 2 categories: faults requiring immediate attention and faults which do not require immediate attention.

Faults requiring immediate attention cause the SMEC to substitute the failed value with a calculated value, to store a trouble code in memory, and to turn on the "CHECK ENGINE" light to alert the driver that service is required. This is the "Limp-In" mode of operation. In this mode, driveability characteristics are greatly affected. The following faulty circuits will cause the system to enter the "Limp-In" mode:

If these faults are corrected during vehicle operation, the system will return to normal operation, but the "CHECK ENGINE" light will remain on until engine is restarted. Any fault codes will remain in memory for evaluation by the SMEC. After 50-100 engine starts the fault codes will be cleared provided the malfunction does not occur again.