Communication Error

Communication Error
It is possible to receive a communication error from a IDS or equivalent tester when initiating a diagnostic test or accessing PIDs. The communication error can be caused by operator error, the vehicle wiring, connectors, the PCM or other control modules connected to the DLC wiring. The PCM will respond to a IDS or equivalent tester whenever the tool requests a test. These are not DTCs. Listed below are numeric codes and generic descriptions that a scan tool may display when trying to carry out some PCM operations. It is possible to get other numeric codes not listed. For a complete list of communication response codes, See society of automotive engineers (SAE) document J2190 enhanced E/E Diagnostic Test Modes. Some are normal responses to valid requests. The others are communication error responses. If the tool displays any of the communication error responses check scan tool connections, cable/adapters and entry of vehicle information.









Diagnostic Tools
Below is an equipment list:

REQUIRED EQUIPMENT:
- Vehicle Communication Module (VCM) and Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS) software with appropriate hardware, or equivalent scan tool with functionality described under Scan Tool Setup and Functionality.
- Smoke Machine, Fuel Evaporative Emission System Tester.

RECOMMENDED EQUIPMENT:
- Vacuum/Pressure Tester. Range 0-101.3 kPa (0-30 in-Hg.) Resolution 3.4 kPa (1 in-Hg.)
- Vacuum Tester. Range 0-101.3 kPa (0-30 in-Hg.)
- Digital Volt Ohm Meter. Input impedance 10 Megaohm minimum.
- Spark Tester
- Non-powered test lamp.

OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT:
- Fuel (Gasoline) pressure test kit. (Use tool manufacturer's instructions.)

Scan Tool Setup and Functionality
- Connect the scan tool to the data link connector (DLC) for communication with the vehicle.
- The DLC is located in the driver side compartment under the steering column. It is attached to the instrument panel and accessible from the driver seat.
- The DLC is rectangular in design and capable of accommodating up to 16 terminals. The connector has keying features to allow easy connection.
- The required scan tool functions are described below:
- monitor, record, and playback of parameter identification (PIDs)
- freeze frame PID data
- diagnostic test modes; self-test, DTCs
- output test mode
- resetting keep alive memory (KAM)
- diagnostic monitoring test results (mode 6) for on board diagnostic (OBD) on board monitors
- on-board system readiness (OBD monitor completion status

Some of these functions are described. Refer to the scan tool manufacturer's instruction manual for specific information on scan tool setup and operation.

Diagnostic Methods

Overview
The Diagnostic Method Section provides information on routine diagnostic tasks.

When following powertrain diagnostics on vehicles with on board diagnostics (OBD), the system may be checked by an off-board tester referred to as a scan tool. This contains information for carrying out diagnostics with a scan tool. A scan tool has certain generic capabilities that are standard across the automotive industry in the United States and Canada. All functions are selected from a menu. Refer to the instruction manual provided by the tool manufacturer.