Innova SD35a: Reading & Erasing check engine codes

Reading & Erasing DTCs

When reading DTCs, never replace a part based only on the DTC definition. Each DTC has a set of testing procedures, instructions, and flow charts that must be followed to confirm the location of the problem. Always refer to the vehicle service manual for detailed testing instructions.

Check your vehicle thoroughly before performing any test. Always observe safety precautions whenever working on a vehicle.

When the Tablet’s erase function is used to erase the DTCs from the vehicle’s onboard computer, Freeze Frame data and manufacturer-specific enhanced data are also erased.

If you plan to take the vehicle to a Service Center for repair, Do not erase the codes from the vehicle’s computer. If the codes are erased, valuable information that might help the technician troubleshoot the problem will also be erased.

Read DTCs – $03, $07, & $0A

Step 1 - Connect the SD35a & select OBD II Diagnostics

  • Once the SD35a has established communication with the vehicle, select OBD II Diagnostics, then press OK.

Step 2- Select Read DTCs - $03, $07, & $0A

Select Read DTCs - $03, $07, & 0A, then press OK to read & view check engine codes.

Step 3 - View check engine codes stored

  • The SD35a will retrieve and display any Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), I/M Monitor Status and Freeze Frame Data retrieved from the vehicle’s computer memory.
  • The SD35a will display a code only if codes are present. If no codes are present, the message No Powertrain DTCs or Freeze Frame Data is presently stored in the vehicle’s computer will display.
  • In the case of long code definitions, a small arrow is shown in the upper/lower right-hand corner of the display area to indicate the presence of additional information. Use arrow keys as necessary to scroll through the definition.

Step 4 - Read and interpret Diagnostic Trouble Codes

  • The green, yellow, and red LEDs are used (with the display) as visual aids to make it easier to determine engine system conditions.
    • Green LED – Indicates that all engine systems are running normally, and all emission monitors are active and performing their diagnostic testing. The Malfunction Indicator Check Engine Lamp on the vehicle’s instrument panel is off.
    • Yellow LED – Indicates one of the following conditions:
      • PENDING CODE IS PRESENT – If the yellow LED is illuminated, it may indicate a Pending code is present. Check the display for confirmation. A Pending code is confirmed by the presence of a numeric code and the word Pending.

      • MONITOR NOT RUN STATUS – If the display shows a zero (indicating there are no DTCs present in the vehicle’s computer memory), but the yellow LED is that some of the Monitors supported by the vehicle have not yet run and completed their diagnostic testing. Check the display for confirmation. All Monitor icons that are blinking have not yet run and completed their diagnostic testing; all Monitor icons that are solid have run

        and completed their diagnostic testing.

    • Red LED – Indicates there is a problem in one or more of the vehicle’s systems. The Malfunction Indicator Check Engine Lamp on the vehicle’s instrument panel is on.
  • DTCs that start with P0, P2 and some P3 are considered Generic (Universal). All Generic DTC definitions are the same on all OBD2-equipped vehicles. The SD35a automatically displays the code definitions (if available) for Generic DTCs.
  • DTCs that start with P1 and some P3 are Manufacturer-specific codes – their code definitions will vary with each vehicle manufacturer.

Erasing Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) - $04

Note: When DTCs are erased from the vehicle’s computer memory, the I/M Readiness Monitor Status program resets the status of all the Monitors to a not run “flashing” condition. To set all the Monitors to a DONE status, an OBD2 Drive Cycle must be performed. Refer to your vehicle’s service manual for information on how to perform an OBD2 Drive Cycle for the vehicle under test.

Step 1 - Select the Erase DTCs - $04 function

  • Select Erase DTCs - $04, then press the OK button.

Step 2 - Select Erase DTCs to continue

  • A confirmation message will display.
  • If you are sure you want to proceed, select Erase DTCs to continue.
  • If you do not want to proceed, press the Back button to return to the OBD2 Menu.
  • If the vehicle’s engine is running, an advisory message shows: Please stop the vehicle and place transmission in Park or Neutral then press OK to continue.

  • A One moment please… message will display while the erase function is in progress.

  • If the erase was successful, a confirmation message will display. After 3 seconds, the tablet automatically re-links to the vehicle’s computer.

  • If the erase was not successful, an advisory message indicating the erase request was sent to the vehicle’s computer. After 3 seconds, the tablet automatically re-links to the vehicle’s

    computer.

Note: If the erase was not successful and ECU error code $22 is present, an advisory message will display. Start the engine and maintain vehicle speed at 0. Press the OK button to try again.

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