Diagnostic System Check - Engine Controls

Circuit Description

Important: Do not perform the Powertrain On-Board diagnostic (OBD) System Check unless one of the concerns noted is present. Failure to follow this procedure could lead to misdiagnosis of the system.

The Powertrain OBD System Check is an organized approach to identifying problems originating in the engine control system. The Powertrain OBD system check must be the starting point for any driveability diagnosis. The powertrain OBD system check directs the service technician to the next logical step in diagnosing a problem. Understanding and using the table correctly will reduce the diagnostic time and prevent the replacement of good parts.

Test Description
The numbers below refer to step numbers on the diagnostic table:
1. Do not perform the Powertrain OBD System Check unless one of the concerns noted is present. Failure to follow this procedure could lead to misdiagnosis of the system.
2. The diagnostic tables are designed for use with a scan tool. If the scan tool is inoperative, this condition must be corrected before beginning any other diagnostic procedures. Do Not clear the DTCs unless you are instructed to do so by a diagnostic procedure.
5. Checking for applicable service bulletins before proceeding with diagnosis is recommended.
6. If any multiple DTCs are stored, diagnose in the following order of priority:
- The ECM DTCs (P0601, P0602, P0603, P0604, P0606)
- The System Voltage DTCs
- The Component level DTCs (the Sensors, the Solenoids, the Relays etc.)
- The multiple DTCs within this category should be diagnosed in numerical order starting with the lowest numbered DTC.
- The System level DTCs (the Misfire, the Fuel Trim, etc.)
- The Transmission DTCs-When there is a known exception, a DTC table may direct the technician to diagnose a different DTC first.
7. Capturing the stored Information will preserve the data that will be lost when you are instructed to clear the DTCs at the end of a diagnostic table, or if an ECM disconnect occurs during a diagnostic procedure. The Freeze Frame data stores in the scan tool's memory. Any non-emissions DTCs that are set should be written down at this time (the Freeze Frame only stores data for the emissions related DTCs). The captured Information should be reviewed at the end of the diagnostic table in order to catch the next DTC in the event that the multiple DTCs were stored. Follow the order of the priority as listed above.
8. Compare the actual data with the values in the Engine Scan Tool Data List in order to determine if any parameter is not within limits. A base engine problem (for example, advanced cam timing) may substantially alter the sensor values. If the actual data does not correspond with the values in the Engine Scan Tool Data List, and the corresponding DTC is not set, refer to the specific conditions that have to be met for the diagnostic to run. This information is in the supporting text for the DTC table. If a system fault is suspected (the [1][2]EVAP operation, the HO2S operation, etc.) refer to the DTCs that apply to that system. The DTC tables are not designed to be used unless a DTC is set, however, many tables begin with a functional test of the related component. This information can be a useful aid in diagnosis.