Instructions Manual

2-4
Tool Basics
2.4 Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) consist of a three-digit code preceded
by an alphanumeric designator. When the on-board computer recognizes
and identifies a problem, a DTC for that fault is stored in memory. These
codes are intended to help the user determine the root cause of a problem.
The format and type of DTCs is summarized on the next page.
J2012 is a standard for all DTCs established by the Society of Automotive
Engineers (SAE). Codes and the definitions assigned by this specification
are known as Generic (or Global) OBD II codes. OBD II requires
compliance of this standard, and has made it a standard for all cars, light
trucks, APVs, MPVs, and SUVs sold in the U.S. from Model Year 1996
and newer. Codes not reserved by the SAE are reserved for the
manufacturer and referred as Manufacturer Specific.
Periodically, new DTCs are developed and approved by the SAE. Upon
approval of the new codes, the AutoScanner’s software will be updated.
There is no established time period that updates are made to the database.
For more information regarding DTC updates, please call our Technical
Support line at
1-800-228-7667 (8:00 - 6:00 EST Monday - Friday), or
send an email to
[e-mail] .
Bx - Body
Cx - Chassis
Px
- Powertrain
Ux - Network Comm.
x = 0, 1, 2 or 3
Specific Fault
Designation
Example:
P0101 –Mass or Volume Air Flow Circuit
Range/Performance Problem
P 0 1 0 1
Vehicle Specific System
SAE J2012 OBD II DTC Recommended Standard
Powertrain Codes
P0xxx
- Generic (SAE)
P1xxx
- Manufacturer Specific
P2xxx
- Generic (SAE)
P30xx-P33xx
- Manufacturer Specific
P34xx-P39xx
- Generic (SAE)
Chassis
Codes
C0xxx
- Generic (SAE)
C1xxx
- Manufacturer Specific
C2xxx
- Manufacturer Specific
C3xxx
- Generic (SAE)
Body
Codes
B0xxx
- Generic (SAE)
B1xxx
- Manufacturer Specific
B2xxx
- Manufacturer Specific
B3xxx
- Generic (SAE)
Network
Communication Codes
U0xxx
- Generic (SAE)
U1xxx
- Manufacturer Specific
U2xxx
- Manufacturer Specific
U3xxx
- Generic (SAE)