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.
Service Bay Test: Description
The purpose of the evaporative emission (EVAP) Service Bay Test is to aid in resetting the EVAP inspection/maintenance system status. For this vehicle that is equipped with the engine off natural vacuum diagnostic, the Service Bay Test uses the scan tool to initiate the engine control module (ECM) regular sequence of EVAP system DTC tests, but with different enable criteria. By using the Service Bay Test the inspection/maintenance indicator can be set without the need for multiple cold soaks.
The scan tool displays for the Service Bay Test are based on the events that occur within the following three categories:
- The engine running portion of the tests - The vehicle must remain at rest, in Park, or in Neutral, during this portion of the test. This test inspects for large leaks, a leaking purge valve and/or vent system restrictions. The scan tool will display test progress or the reason for an abort or failure.
- Drive cycle - The scan tool will display time and distance needed to warm the fuel.
- Ignition OFF-During this portion of the test, the engine controller will remain active for up to 45 minutes when the ignition is turned OFF to allow control of the EVAP canister vent valve and run the engine off natural vacuum test. The engine controller inspects for small leaks during this period by monitoring fuel tank pressure or vacuum. If the system is sealed, there will be a pressure or vacuum change. Pressure or vacuum changes that are less than the calibrated values indicate a leak.
When the EVAP diagnostics are initiated by the Service Bay Test, the scan tool will indicate if the enable conditions listed below are not met, or will display a specific reason if the test aborts. When complete, the display will indicate that the tests passed or failed.
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
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.