Diagnosis System

When troubleshooting OBD II (On-Board Diagnostics) vehicles, a hand-held tester 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.

OBD II regulations require that the vehicle's on-board 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 Malfunction Indicator Lamp

   Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002

   To check DTCs, connect a hand-held tester to the DLC3. The tester display DTCs, freeze frame data, and a variety of engine data. The DTCs and freeze frame data can be erased with the tester (see DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE CHART ).

   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.

   Fig 2: Connecting Hand Held Tester

   Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002

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

   Fig 3: Identifying Connector Terminals DLC3

   Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002

The diagnosis system operates in the 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 (hand-held tester only) (see CHECK FOR INTERMITTENT PROBLEMS ).

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).

Freeze frame data record the engine condition (fuel system, calculated engine load, engine coolant temperature, fuel trim, engine speed, vehicle speed, etc.) when malfunctions are detected. When troubleshooting, freeze frame data can help determine if the vehicle was moving or stationary, if the engine was warmed up or not, if the air-fuel ratio was lean or rich, and other data, from the time the malfunction occurred.

The vehicle's ECM uses the ISO 15765-4 communication protocol. The terminal arrangement of the DLC3 complies with SAE J1962 and matches the ISO 15765-4 format.

Fig 4: Identifying Connector Terminals DLC3

Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002

HINT:

The DLC3 is the interface prepared for reading various data from the vehicle's ECM. After connecting the cable of a hand-held tester, turn the ignition switch to ON 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 with the tester itself. Consult the Service Department listed in the instruction manual.

Battery Voltage: 11 to 14 V 

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

1. The MIL is illuminated when the ignition switch is first turned to ON (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 ON, check the MIL circuit (see MIL CIRCUIT  ).

For this vehicle, using the hand-held tester allows readiness codes corresponding to all DTCs to be read. When diagnosis (normal or malfunctioning) has been complete, readiness codes are set. Enter the following menus: ENHANCED OBD II / MONITOR STATUS on the hand-held tester.