Innova 7111: Reading and Erasing the OEM Trouble Codes

Purpose

To guide you on how to read and clear Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Trouble Codes.

Introduction

OEM Trouble Codes are unique to each vehicle manufacturer and are created by the automaker to diagnose issues within the vehicle's systems. These codes serve the purpose of diagnosing and fixing specific problems in the vehicle and are often exclusive to a particular manufacturer. If a code is stored, the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) on the dashboard lights up to indicate that a problem requires attention. A technician can identify the source of a system fault in the vehicle and carry out the required repairs by reading the codes.

This article demonstrates how to read and erase OEM Trouble Codes on a 2015 Chevrolet Equinox L4, 2.4L (VIN 8th = K) using the Innova 7111 Scan Tool Tablet.

Procedure

Step 1 - Connect Innova 7111 Scan Tool Tablet to the vehicle and select 'OEM Diagnostics' function

First, connect the Innova 7111 Scan Tool Tablet to your vehicle via the On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) connector to retrieve the vehicle's information, such as Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) and model.
Then, select the function 'OEM Diagnostics'.

Step 2 – Read OEM Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)

The Scan Tool will show a list of the systems in your vehicle. Here, you can select the 'Scan All Systems' button to scan all the systems in the vehicle or select any system to read DTCs.
Tap the ‘Read DTCs’ button.

Step 3 - View the result and check DTCs in the system

The Scan Tool displays the OEM diagnostic codes for the selected system, including the status and definition of the DTCs. The definition, status, and description of DTCs may vary among different makes and models of vehicles.
The DTC status indicates the level of severity of the problem, providing technicians with insights into the issue, thereby improving their ability to diagnose and repair the vehicle in a more efficient manner.

Step 4 – Repair the issue and erase the DTCs

Once you have resolved all the DTCs in the vehicle, it is time to use the 'Erase DTCs' feature to erase the codes and turn off the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) or warning light located on the dashboard of your vehicle.
The process of clearing DTCs will be carried out by the Scan Tool. After completion, The Scan Tool will automatically conduct another scan of all systems to confirm that there are no remaining DTCs in the vehicle, guaranteeing that the problem has been completely resolved.

Summary

The use of a scan tool for diagnosing and fixing faults greatly simplifies the process in the current automotive industry. The method outlined is relevant for the 'Reading and Clearing OEM Trouble Codes' function on a 2015 Chevrolet Equinox L4, 2.4L (VIN 8th = K) utilizing the Innova 7111 Scan Tool Tablet. Additionally, the Innova 7111 Scan Tool Tablet supports multiple vehicle manufacturers.