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.
NORMAL Mode Code Retrieval
Hand-Held Tester Only - When the diagnosis system is switched from the normal mode to the check mode, it erases all DTCs and freeze frame data recorded in the normal mode. So before switching modes, always check the DTCs and freeze frame data and note them down.
OBD II Scan Tool Only - When simulating a symptom with the OBD II scan tool (excluding hand-held tester) to check the DTCs, use the normal mode. For code on the DTC chart subject to 2 trip detection logic, perform either of the following two actions:
- Turn the ignition switch OFF after the symptom is simulated the 1st time. Then repeat the simulation process again. When the problem has been simulated twice, the MIL lights up and the DTCs are recorded in the ECM.
- Check the 1st trip DTC using Mode 7 (Continuous Test Results) for SAE J1979.
- Prepare the hand-held tester or the OBD II scan tool complying with SAE J1978.
- Connect the hand-held tester or OBD II scan tool to DLC3 under the instrument panel lower pad. See Figure.
- Turn ignition ON with engine off and push the hand-held tester or OBD II scan tool main switch ON.
- Use the hand-held tester or the OBD II scan tool to check for DTCs and freeze frame data and note them down (for operating instructions, see the OBD II scan tool's instruction book). For more information on freeze frame data, see FREEZE FRAME DATA . If driveability problem exists and no DTCs are present, go to TROUBLE SHOOTING - NO CODES article for diagnosis by symptom.
- Confirm details of the DTC. See DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE DEFINITIONS .
- After repairs have been completed, clear DTCs from ECM. See CLEARING DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES . Road test vehicle to ensure all symptoms and/or complaints have been repaired.
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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.