Innova SDS43 SDS-Inspector: Powertrain Active Test

Purpose

To guide users on how to perform an Actuator Test with the Innova SDS43 SDS-Inspector Tablet Scan Tool.

Introduction

The Actuator Test function, also called Active Test, is a bi-directional control test to check the functionality of actuators, relays, fuel pumps, injectors, ignition coils, and many more components. The Innova SDS43 SDS-Inspector Tablet Scan Tool enables you to perform Actuator Test for Engine Control Module/Powertrain Control Module (ECM/PCM) on various vehicles. It offers the most popular items in the Active Test function available for 7 vehicle makes - Chrysler, GM, Ford, Hyundai, Nissan, Toyota, and Honda.

Examples:

Fuel Pump Relay
EVAP System
Compression Test
Depressurize Fuel System
Throttle Actuator Control Valve
Oxygen Sensor Heaters
Ignition Timing Retard
Cooling Fan

Procedure

Step 1 - Connect Innova SDS43 SDS-Inspector Tablet Scan Tool to the vehicle and select 'OEM Diagnostics' function

First, connect the Innova SDS43 SDS-Inspector Tablet Scan Tool to your vehicle via the Diagnostic Link Connector (DLC) to retrieve the vehicle's information, such as VIN and On-Board Diagnostic (OBD2) information.
There are two options to access 'OEM Diagnostics':
- Option 1 (AutoLink function is OFF): From the Home Screen, select 'OEM Diagnostics' section and press the OK button.
- Option 2 (AutoLink function is ON): From the 'OBD2 Control Display' screen, press 'Home' button, after that select the 'OEM Diagnostics' section.

Step 2 – Performing Active Test for ECM/PCM Systems

After selecting the ‘OEM Diagnostic’ section, the Scan Tool displays the item list as shown in the image
There are two options to enter the Active Test function on the Innova SDS43 SDS-Inspector Tablet Scan Tool as below:
- Option 1:
  - Select the ‘Scan All Systems’ item.
  - After selecting this item, the Scan Tool shows the system list separated in the three groups as below:
    - Powertrain
    - Body
    - Chassis
  - Next, find and select the ECM (or PCM) – Engine Control Module.
- Option 2:
  - Select the ‘ECM (or PCM) - Engine Control Module.
  - After selecting the system, the Scan Tool shows the available function list in the system. After that, choose the ‘Active Test’ item to enter the Active Test function.

Step 3 - Choose the Active Test function to perform

After entering into the Active Test function, the Scan Tool displays the Active Test item list as the image.
Select 'Cooling Fan' to check the performance of the cooling fan – it may take a few moments to retrieve its result.

Step 4 - Select the controlled state of the fan to check the performance of the cooling fan

There are five controlled states of the cooling fan on the 2020 Chevrolet Malibu. You may activate the cooling fan from state 1 to state 5 to adjust the fan and check the performance.
Command state 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 operation of cooling fan operates at approximately 18%, 54%, 67%, 85%, 90%.

Step 5 - Select any state to perform the Active Test function

Select 'State 1' item, the Scan Tool displays 'Commanded state: State 1' on the screen.
Use the Scan Tool to increase/ decrease from State 1 to State 5. Verify the component operation – it should turn ON.
Based on the operation of the actuator, mechanics can determine a reasonable repair method.

Step 6 - Select 'Release Control'

Select 'Release Control' item, and the Scan Tool displays 'Commanded State: None’.  Verify the operation of the actuator – it should turn OFF.

Step 7 - Exit the function

Select the 'Exit' softkey to complete the Active Test function.