Diagnosis System

When troubleshooting OBD II (On-Board Diagnostics) vehicles, the 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 can be then read.

OBD II regulations require that the vehicle's on-board computer illuminates the MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) on the combination meter when the computer detects a malfunction in:

1. The emission control systems components.
2. The power train control components (which affect vehicle emissions).
3. The computer itself.

   In addition, the applicable DTCs prescribed by SAE J2012 are recorded in the ECM memory. If the malfunction does not recur in 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 the DTCs, connect the intelligent tester to the DLC3. The tester displays DTCs, freeze frame data, and a variety of the engine data. The DTCs and freeze frame data can be erased with the tester. 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 the 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 high speed communication between the systems and simplifies the wire harness connection. Since this system is equipped with the CAN communication, connecting the CAN VIM (VIM: Vehicle Interface Module) with intelligent tester is necessary to display any information from the ECM. (Also the communication between the intelligent tester and the ECM uses CAN communication signals.) When confirming the DTCs and any data of the ECM, connect the CAN VIM between the DLC3 and the intelligent tester.

   Fig 2: Connecting Intelligent Tester To DLC3

   Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002

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).

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 records the engine conditions (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 for communication protocol. The terminal arrangement of the DLC3 complies with ISO 15031-3 and matches the ISO 15765-4 format.

Fig 3: Identifying Data Link Connector 3 Terminals

Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002

If the result is not as specified, the DLC3 may have a malfunction. Repair or replace the harness and connector.

HINT:

The DLC3 is the interface prepared for reading various data from the vehicle's ECM. After connecting the cable of the intelligent tester, turn the power switch ON (IG) 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 still not possible: The problem is probably in the tester itself. Consult the Service Department listed in the instruction manual.

Battery Voltage: 

11 to 14 V 

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

1. The MIL is illuminated when the power switch is first turned ON (IG) (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 malfunction or abnormality in the system.

   HINT:

   If the MIL is not illuminated when the power switch is first turned ON (IG), check the MIL CIRCUIT .

For the vehicle, using the intelligent 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: DIAGNOSIS / ENHANCED OBD II / MONITOR STATUS on the intelligent tester.