Drive Cycle: Description

Several states require that a vehicle pass On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) system tests and the I/M emission inspection in order to renew license plates. This is accomplished by viewing the I/M system status display on a scan tool. Using a scan tool, the technician can observe the I/M system status in order to verify that the vehicle meets the criteria that complies with the local area requirements.

The System Status display indicates only if the PCM has completed the required tests (DTCs). The System Status display does not necessarily mean that the test has passed. If a failure indication is present for a DTC associated with one of the systems, that test has failed. Diagnosis and repair are necessary in order to meet the I/M requirement. Verify that the vehicle passes all of the diagnostic tests associated with the displayed System Status prior to returning the vehicle to the customer.