BLCKTEC 420: Retrieving OBD2 Diagnostic Trouble Codes

Purpose

To guide you on how to retrieve trouble codes using the BLCKTEC 420.

Using the Diagnostic Tool

Never replace a part based only on the DTC definition. Each DTC has its own set of testing procedures, guidelines, and flow charts that must follow to establish the location of the problem. We can find the data in the vehicle service manual. For complete testing procedures, always consult the vehicle's service handbook.

Step 1 -Turn the ignition OFF.

Turn off the ignition.

Step 2 -Locate the vehicle’s 16-pin Data Link Connector (DLC).

Connect the Data link Connector (DLC) to the vehicle.

Step 3 - Connect the Diagnostic Tool’s cable connector to the vehicle’s DLC.

The cable connector is keyed and will only fit one way.

Note: If you experience difficulties attaching the cable connection to the DLC, turn the connector 180 degrees. If you are still having issues with the Diagnostic Tool and the vehicle's DLC, check both connectors if it has damage. The car symbol should appear to verify a valid power connection after the Diagnostic Tool test has correctly linked to the vehicle's DLC.

Step 4 - Turn the ignition on. DO NOT start the engine.

Turn on the Ignition but do not start the engine.

Step 5 - The Diagnostic Tool will automatically link to the vehicle’s computer.

If the unit does not power on automatically, it may indicate there is no power present at the vehicle’s DLC connector. Check the fuse panel and replace any burned-out fuses. If replacing the fuse does not correct the problem, consult the vehicle’s repair manual to identify the proper computer (PCM) fuse/circuit, and perform any necessary repairs before proceeding.

Step 6 - The Diagnostic Tool automatically checks the vehicle’s computer to determine which communication protocol it is using.

The tool begins with 'AUTO-LINK' to identify the computer’s communication protocol.

A progress bar is displayed while a communication link is established. If the Diagnostic Tool fails to link to the vehicle’s computer, a 'Communication Error' message will show:

Ensure your vehicle is OBD2 compliant.
Verify the connection at the DLC, and verify the ignition is ON.
Turn the ignition OFF, wait 5 seconds, then back ON to reset the computer.
Press and hold DTC/FF/ DOWN ▼ button to try again.

If an error is shown on the Diagnostic Tool’s LCD display, it indicates a communication problem. This means that the Diagnostic Tool is unable to communicate with the vehicle’s computer. If that happens, follow the procedure below:

Turn the ignition key OFF, wait 5 seconds, and turn the key back on to reset the computer.

Step 7 - If the Diagnostic Tool can decode the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for the vehicle under test, the OBD2 results screen will display. Proceed to step 9.

Step 8 - If the Diagnostic Tool cannot decode the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for the vehicle under test, one of the following will result:

If the vehicle has stored OEM Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), the 'Select Make' screen will display.

Use the Press DOWN ▼ button to select the desired vehicle, then press MENU/ENTER↵. Proceed to step 9.

If the vehicle does not have OEM Diagnostic Trouble Codes, the screen will display the results as “Global OBD2”.

Proceed to step 9.

Step 9 - After approximately 2~3 seconds, the Diagnostic Tool will retrieve and display any Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Monitor Status, and Freeze Frame Data retrieved from the vehicle’s computer memory.

The Diagnostic Tool will display a code only if codes are present.

If no codes are present, the message 'No Powertrain DTCs or Freeze Frame Data presently stored in the vehicle’s computer' will display.

Refer to DISPLAY FUNCTIONS for a description of display elements.

Note: 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. If a definition for the currently displayed code is not available, an advisory message will show.

Step 10 - Read and interpret the Diagnostic Trouble Codes using the LCD display and the green, yellow, and red LEDs.

The green, yellow, and red LEDs are used (with the LCD display) as visual aids to make it easier for the user to determine engine system conditions.

A. Green LED - Indicates that all engine systems are 'OK' and running normally. All monitors on the vehicle are active and are performing their diagnostic testing, and no trouble codes are present. The message No DTC will show on the Diagnostic Tool’s LCD display for further confirmation.

B. Yellow LED - Indicates one of the following conditions:

PENDING CODE 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 yellow LED has illumination and the display will show a zero (indicating no DTCs present in the vehicle’s computer memory). It signifies that some of the monitors supported by the vehicles have not yet run and completed their diagnostic testing. All Monitor icons that are blinking have not yet run and completed their diagnostic testing, and all Monitor icons that are solid have run and completed their diagnostic testing.

C. Red LED - Indicates there is a problem with one or more of the vehicle’s systems. The red LED is also used to indicate that DTC(s) are present. In this case, the Malfunction Indicator (Check Engine) lamp on the vehicle’s instrument panel will be illuminated.

Note: Codes that start with P0 are generic codes. These codes are the same with all OBD2-equipped vehicles. On the other hand, DTCs that start with P1, P2, and P3 are manufacturer-specific codes.

Step 11 - If more than one Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) was retrieved:

Press the M/ENTER↵, as necessary, to view Freeze Frame data associated with DTC #1.

Press and release DTC/FF/DOWN ▼ button to view additional stored codes.

Each time DTC/FF/DOWN ▼ button is pressed and released, the Diagnostic Tool will scroll and display the next DTC in sequence until all DTCs in its memory have been displayed.

Press the ENTER ↵ button, as necessary, to view Freeze Frame data associated with DTC #1.

Press and release the DOWN ▼/UP ▲ button to view additional stored codes.

Each time the DOWN ▼/UP ▲ button is pressed and released, the Diagnostic Tool will scroll and display the next DTC in sequence until all DTCs in its memory have been displayed.

Press the FF/DTC buttons, as necessary, to view Freeze Frame data associated with DTC #1.

Step 12 - When the last retrieved DTC has been displayed and the DTC/FF/DOWN ▼ button is pressed, the Diagnostic Tool returns to the 'Priority' code.

Step 13 - Determine engine system(s) condition by viewing the display for any retrieved Diagnostic Trouble Codes, code definitions, and Freeze Frame data, interpreting the green, yellow, and red LEDs.

If DTCs were found and you choose to handle the repairs yourself, start by consulting the vehicle's service manual for flowcharts, testing instructions, and testing methods related to retrieving code.