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.
Basic Troubleshooting Guide
- Bring Vehicle to Workshop
- Analyze Customer's Problem
Ask the customer about the conditions and environment relative to the issue (Use CUSTOMER PROBLEM ANALYSIS SHEET ).
- Verify Symptom, and then Check DTC and Freeze Frame Data
Connect Hi-Scan (Pro) to Diagnostic Link Connector (DLC).
Record the DTC and freeze frame data.
NOTE: To erase DTC and freeze frame data, refer to Step 5. - Confirm the Inspection Procedure for the System or Part
Using the SYMPTOM TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE CHART , choose the correct inspection procedure for the system or part to be checked.
- Erase the DTC and Freeze Frame Data WARNING: NEVER erase DTC and freeze frame data before completing Step 2 MIL/DTC in "CUSTOMER PROBLEM ANALYSIS SHEET ".
- Inspect Vehicle Visually
Go to Step 11, if you recognize the problem.
- Recreate (Simulate) Symptoms of the DTC
Try to recreate or simulate the symptoms and conditions of the malfunction as described by customer.
If DTC(s) is/are displayed, simulate the condition according to troubleshooting procedure for the DTC.
- Confirm Symptoms of Problem
If DTC(s) is/are not displayed, go to next step.
If DTC(s) is/are displayed, go to Step 11.
- Recreate (Simulate) Symptom
Try to recreate or simulate the condition of the malfunction as described by the customer.
- Check the DTC
If DTC(s) does (do) not occur, refer to INTERMITTENT PROBLEM INSPECTION PROCEDURE .
If DTC(s) occur(s), go to next step.
- Perform troubleshooting procedure for DTC
- Adjust or repair the vehicle
- Confirmation test
- END
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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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.
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