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.
Check Mode Procedure
HINT:
Intelligent tester only:
Compared to normal mode, check mode is more sensitive to malfunctions. Therefore, check mode can detect the malfunctions that cannot be detected by normal mode.
Before changing modes, always check and make a note of any DTCs and freeze frame data.
- CHECK MODE PROCEDURE (Using an intelligent tester)Β
- Check and ensure the following conditions:
- Battery voltage 11 V or more
- Throttle valve fully closed
- Transmission in the P or N positions
- A/C switched OFF
- Turn the ignition switch OFF.
- Connect an intelligent tester to the DLC3.
- Turn the ignition switch to ON.
- Turn the tester ON.
- Select the following menu items: DIAGNOSIS / ENHANCED OBD II / CHECK MODE.
- Switch the ECM from normal mode to check mode.
- Make sure the MIL flashes as shown in the illustration.
- Start the engine.
- Make sure the MIL turns off.
- Simulate the conditions of the malfunction described by the customer.
- Check DTCs and freeze frame data using the tester.
- Check and ensure the following conditions:
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:
- 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.
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