Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Powertrain On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) System Check
The OBD System Check determines:
- If Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) operates.
- If PCM is operating and can recognize a fault.
- If any DTCs are stored.
After performing procedures in PRELIMINARY INSPECTION & ADJUSTMENTS, BASIC FUEL SYSTEM CHECKS and BASIC IGNITION SYSTEM CHECKS in BASIC TESTING - 5.7L article, this is the starting point for utilizing the self-diagnostic system for determining computer-related problems. After performing necessary tests as described in the diagnostic circuit check, if no codes are indicated and driveability problems still exist, see TESTS W/O CODES - 5.7L article and SCAN TOOL USAGE.
- Connect scan tool to Data Link Connector (DLC). Turn ignition on with engine off. If scan tool does not display data, go to next step. If scan tool displays data, go to step 3).
- Using scan tool, select DIAGNOSTIC CIRCUIT CHECK, CLASS 2 MESSAGE MONITOR. If scan tool displays other modules as active, go to DLC DIAGNOSIS OR NO SCAN TOOL DATA. If scan tool does not display other modules as active, go to appropriate system for diagnosis of faulty module. See appropriate article in the ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT section.
- If engine starts and continues to run, go to next step. If engine does not start or continue to run, go to NO START - ENGINE CRANKS OKAY (WITH DIS) under NO START DIAGNOSIS in BASIC TESTING - 5.7L article.
- If engine continues to run after vehicle exceeds 2 MPH, go to next step. If engine does not continue to run after vehicle exceeds 2 MPH, go to BODY CONTROL MODULE article in ACCESSORIES/SAFETY EQUIPMENT section.
- Using scan tool, check if DTC P1626 or DTC P1631 stored in history. If either DTC is stored, diagnose DTC. If neither DTC is stored, go to next step.
- Using scan tool, observe DTC information. If DTC status LAST TEST FAILED, TEST FAILED THIS IGNITION, MIL REQUEST, or HISTORY DTCs are set, save DTC FREEZE FRAME and/or FAILURE RECORDS information, or REFRESH INFO. If any DTCs are displayed, diagnose DTC. If no DTCs are displayed, go to next step.
- Compare scan tool engine data with actual control system data values. If data value is within limits, see TESTS W/O CODES - 5.7L article. If data value is not within limits, go to next step.
- Vehicle is equipped with a column lock system. System is necessary because of location of ignition lock cylinder. Body Control Module (BCM) controls a motor mounted on steering column that unlocks steering wheel. If BCM is unable to determine if column is unlocked or if vehicle speed is present, Powertrain Control Module (PCM) will disable fuel. If condition is intermittent, check for improper installation of electrical components. Inspect aftermarket theft deterrent devices, lights and cellular telephones. Ensure aftermarket equipment is not connected to Class 2 circuit. If intermittent condition cannot be located, cellular telephone communication signal may be cause. If multiple DTCs are set, check IGN 1 mini relay operation. Relay protects battery from parasitic draw and powers transmission, EVAP solenoid, MAF sensor, AIR pump and AIR solenoid relays, and TCC/Cruise and extended-travel brake switches.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- β’ You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- β’ Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- β’ The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- β’ You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- β’ You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.