Scan Tool Cannot Communicate With Class 2 Device

1998 Oldsmobile Achieva 3.1 M, 4T40E/MN4SECTION Scan Tool Cannot Communicate With Class 2 Device
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 1999 Pontiac Grand Am and 1999 Oldsmobile Alero. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE: To identify wire colors and modules on serial data line, see WIRING DIAGRAMSΒ  . Also, see appropriate wiring diagram in DATA LINK CONNECTORS article in WIRING DIAGRAMS.
  1. Perform POWERTRAIN ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTIC (OBD) SYSTEM CHECK under SELF-DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM in SELF-DIAGNOSTICS - GASOLINE - EXCEPT METRO, PRIZM & TRACKER article in ENGINE PERFORMANCE. Go to next step.
  2. Turn ignition on. Observe Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL). If MIL comes on, go to next step. If MIL does not come on, go to MIL INOPERATIVE under SELF-DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM in SELF-DIAGNOSTICS - GASOLINE - EXCEPT METRO, PRIZM & TRACKER article in ENGINE PERFORMANCE.
  3. Connect scan tool to DLC. If scan tool powers up, go to next step. If scan tool does not power up, go to step Β 6 .
  4. Attempt to establish communications with BCM and EBCM. If scan tool communicates with modules, go to step Β 6 . If scan tool does not communicate with modules, go to next step.
  5. Turn ignition off and disconnect PCM connectors. Turn ignition on. Attempt to establish communications with BCM and EBCM. If scan tool communicates with modules, go to DATA LINK COMMUNICATIONS DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM CHECKΒ  . If scan tool does not communicate with modules, go to next step.
  6. Check for open or poor connections in class 2 serial data line between splice and PCM (Purple wire). See WIRING DIAGRAMSΒ  . If faulty circuit was found and repaired, go to DATA LINK COMMUNICATIONS DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM CHECKΒ  . If circuit is okay, go to next step.
  7. Start engine and allow to idle until normal operating temperature is reached. Check for any DTC's. If scan tool shows DTCs are set that have not been addressed, go to appropriate DTC table under appropriate system. If scan tool shows DTCs are set that have been addressed and/or repaired, go to DATA LINK COMMUNICATIONS DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM CHECKΒ  .
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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.
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