Autel AutoLink AL539B [8/92] Obd ii definitions

to “Not Ready”. Since the three continuous monitors are constantly

evaluating, they will be reported as “Ready” all of the time. If testing

of a particular supported non-continuous monitor has not been

completed, the monitor status will be reported as “Not Complete” or

“Not Ready.”

In order for the OBD monitor system to become ready, the vehicle

should be driven under a variety of normal operating conditions.

These operating conditions may include a mix of highway driving and

stop and go, city type driving, and at least one overnight-off period.

For specific information on getting your vehicle‟s OBD monitor

system ready, please consult your vehicle owner‟s manual.

2.6 OBD II Definitions

Power-train Control Module (PCM) -- OBD II terminology for the

on-board computer that controls engine and drive train.

Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) -- Malfunction Indicator Light

(Service Engine Soon, Check Engine) is a term used for the light on

the instrument panel. It is to alert the driver and/or the repair

technician that there is a problem with one or more of vehicle's

systems and may cause emissions to exceed federal standards. If the

MIL illuminates with a steady light, it indicates that a problem has

been detected and the vehicle should be serviced as soon as possible.

Under certain conditions, the dashboard light will blink or flash. This

indicates a severe problem and flashing is intended to discourage

vehicle operation. The vehicle onboard diagnostic system can not turn

the MIL off until necessary repairs are completed or the condition no

longer exists.

DTC -- Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) that identify which section

of the emission control system has malfunctioned.

Enabling Criteria -- Also termed Enabling Conditions. They are the

vehicle-specific events or conditions that must occur within the

engine before the various monitors will set, or run. Some monitors

require the vehicle to follow a prescribed “drive cycle” routine as part

of the enabling criteria. Drive cycles vary among vehicles and for

each monitor in any particular vehicle.