Welcome to Snap-on® Training Solutions®. This module is designed to help you get the most out of your MODIS Ultra™ diagnostic tool and covers the use of Global OBD-II scanner functions.
Global OBD scanner coverage is strictly related to emissions related coverage. It is universal in that all vehicles sold in the U S and Canada since 1996 must comply with this standard. All 10 modes of OBD-II are covered by this tool in are accessed by selecting the OBD-II icon on the home screen. All service modes are not supported by all vehicles, so the available menu selections will vary. Note, some vehicles do not support all 10 modes, so results will vary. Let's start by exploring the OBD direct functions. This opens a menu of two choices, OBD diagnose and OBD training mode. Training mode allows you to navigate through the menus and see results without being connected to a vehicle.
This is a good way to explore OBD-II capabilities. For this demonstration, we will select OBD diagnose to diagnose a vehicle. We see the following options. Start communication initiates a test session. Select communication protocol establishes which vehicle protocol to use. Let's select connector information to see where to find the data link connector or DLC on this vehicle. Let's choose an Alfa Romeo. Some of these models may not be familiar in the US but all vehicles are included in global OBD-II so you always know you have emissions coverage on any vehicle. Let's select model 147, here's the connector location. Have you ever searched for connector that was not in the usual place? the DLC locator makes it easy. Now select continue.
Readiness Monitors
Coverage includes all 10 modes of OBD-II and readiness monitors, which are very important when verifying emission repairs. Readiness monitors provide a status report on emissions related systems. Some monitor reports require an extensive drive cycle in order to complete the requirements of the test. Results are shown for each monitor. If the monitor is supported by the vehicle and whether the drive cycle test is complete for each monitor. Monitor tests must be complete in order for the vehicle to be ready for an emissions test.
Troubleshooter
What's this troubleshooter for Global OBD-II? You bet. Snap-on Troubleshooter consists of expert tips from OEM and specialty technicians. OBD-II tips pertain specifically to engine and emission systems. Troubleshooter shows a drive cycle procedure for a fast way to complete readiness monitor tests. Troubleshooter code tips can save significant diagnostic time by giving you the likely causes for a specific fault code. For example, this tip on a vehicle speed sensor code shows likely causes that might not be obvious like instrument panel or wiring issues.
Ten Modes of OBD-II
Let's take a brief look at the valuable information inside each of the 10 modes in OBD-II. Mode one displays live data parameters for engine and emission systems. This is typically your first step when diagnosing a check engine light. Mode two displays freeze frame data. This is a record of vehicle data parameters captured at the moment of fault code was set. This can give valuable insight into the operating conditions of the vehicle at the time of the fault. Mode three displays the OBD-II trouble codes currently set by the vehicle. OBD-II fault codes are standard for every vehicle manufacturer. The code definition is also shown on the right to explain the meaning of the code. Remember to look at Troubleshooter for useful insight into the likely causes of each code. Mode four provides an easy method to turn off the malfunction indicator lamp or MIL after a repair. Caution: this also clears freeze frame data, pending codes and readiness monitors, so this should usually be the last step in your repair process. Modes five, six and seven display data parameters related to oxygen sensors, saved results of manufacturers specific tests and trouble codes detected during the last drive cycle. This is useful in determining the root cause of recurring fault codes.
Mode eight allows the service technician to invoke an onboard test to seal the evaporative system for a pressure test. This function varies by manufacturer. For example, on Ford systems, this closes the canister vent solenoid for 10 minutes. Mode nine can read the vehicle identification number or VIN as well as the calibration and ID numbers for the engine control unit or ECU. Mode nine performance tracking displays a record of the number of times each of the readiness monitors have been completed. Mode 10 displays diagnostic trouble codes with permanent status. These codes are stored in the powertrain control module for 400 days and cannot be cleared. Remember, for easy navigation, you can use the back icon at anytime to step back one screen and the home icon as a shortcut to the main menu.
Snap-on is dedicated to helping you get the most out of your diagnostic tool and keep your customers happy. Be sure to watch the next module in this Training Solutions series.