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.
Accumulating Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Data
PCM data can be accumulated in a number of ways. Gather as much data as possible when the concern is occurring to prevent misdiagnosis. Data should be accumulated during different operating conditions and based on the customer description of the intermittent concern. Reference the known good data values located in the REFERENCE VALUES article Control System Diagnostic Sheet Reference. This requires recording data in 4 conditions for comparison: 1) Key On Engine Off (KOEO), 2) Hot Idle, 3) 48 km/h (30 mph), and 4) 89 km/h (55 mph). Acquisition of PCM PID data using a scan tool is one of the easiest ways to gather information.
For information on the functions of your scan tool, refer to the manufacturer's manual for scan tool instructions.
Below is a list of the functions available:
- selecting and viewing PIDs
- storing PIDs
- recording measurements along with PIDs
- playback of stored PIDs
- peripheral inputs
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.