Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Diagnostic Tool Hookup

Diagnostic Tool
1. Key off.
2. Connect the On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) Data Link Connector (DLC) cable securely into the vehicle OBD DLC.
3. Connect the diagnostic tool power supply cable to the vehicle.
4. Turn the key to ON or start the vehicle if necessary. The diagnostic tool is ready to communicate with vehicle modules.
5. Follow instructions on the diagnostic tool screen display or in the diagnostic tool manual.
6. To disconnect the tool, turn the key to OFF and disconnect the diagnostic tool from the DLC and power supply.
^ Refer to the diagnostic tool manufacturer's manual for specific cables and/or adapters necessary for diagnostic tool hookup.

OBD Data Link Connector


OBD Data Link Connector:






OBD DLC Connector Pinouts:






The on-board diagnostic (OBD) Data Link Connector (DLC) is located in the passenger compartment. It is attached to the instrument panel and accessible from the driver seat.

The OBD DLC is rectangular in design and capable of accommodating up to 16 terminals. The connector has keying features to allow easy connection. The vehicle connector and the test equipment connector have latching features that ensure the test equipment connector will remain mated when properly connected.

Communication Error
It is possible to get a communication error from a diagnostic tool when initiating a diagnostic test or accessing Parameter Identification (PIDs). The communication error could be caused by operator error, the vehicle wiring, connectors, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) or other control modules connected to the OBD DLC wiring. The PCM will respond to a diagnostic tool whenever the tool requests a test. If manually entering the message strings using some diagnostic tools, the numeric codes will be at the end of the string of characters. These are not Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs).