Serial Data

ECM is equipped with a serial data line. Serial data is a stream of electrical impulses which can be interpreted by special testers or other control modules. When the ignition switch is turned to RUN position, each module sends a state of health message to the other modules using the serial data line. Ensuring the modules are working properly. If a module stops communicating, other control modules expecting information from that module will set a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC). Serial data and codes must be accessed using a scan tool connected to the Data Link Connector (DLC). Update intervals and information contained within the data stream vary with model application.