Reading Trouble Codes

NOTE: Only hard codes, intermittent codes and information flags may be retrieved without using scan tool. Malfunction history information can only be retrieved by using scan tool.

PCM stores component failure information under a related trouble code which can be recalled for diagnosis and repair. Other useful information that can be used for diagnosis purposes is available using a scan tool. Trouble codes may be read by counting flashes of MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT (MIL) or LOW COOLANT/HOT light.

For example, "FLASH, FLASH, pause, FLASH, longer pause" identifies DTC 21. The first series of flashes represents first digit of trouble code. The second series of flashes represents second digit of trouble code. Thus; "FLASH, FLASH, FLASH, FLASH, FLASH, pause, FLASH, FLASH, longer pause" identifies DTC 52.

The first code will always be DTC 12, followed by all other stored trouble codes. Each code will be repeated 3 times. Record all stored codes. MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT (MIL) will flash DTC 11 three times to indicate end of engine related trouble codes and start of transaxle related trouble codes.

LOW COOLANT/HOT light will start flashing transaxle related codes and information flags. See appropriate table under TROUBLE CODES & INFORMATION FLAGS. Stored transaxle DTCs and information flags are read by counting flashes of LOW COOLANT/HOT light. If MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT (MIL) does not flash DTC 11, no transaxle trouble codes or information flags are stored in PCM memory.

NOTE: Trouble codes will be recorded at various operating times. In order to set some trouble codes, vehicle may require road testing (up to 5 minutes or longer for some sensors or switches).