GENERAL

For every diagnostic trouble code, the control modules stores a number of counters. These counters count the number of driving cycles that have been performed in the control module with or without malfunctions, if the malfunction is detected or not. In control systems older than model year 1999, there may be control systems, depending on control system, without counters or with few counters. From model year 1999, there are systems with several counters. The following counters may appear:

Counter 1
Counter 2 *
Counter 3
Counter 4
Counter 5**
Counter 6
Counter 7
Counter 8

The text uses the term driving cycle, which may also be called Operation cycle.

* In principle, only systems with the diagnostic concept Generic Global Diagnostic (GGD).

** Only for emission-related systems.

When erasing diagnostic trouble codes, the diagnostic trouble code's counter is erased.

NOTE:

Status identifier, Counter and Frozen values are the most important factors to deciding the malfunction's nature, that is, to decide:

when the malfunction was detected (frozen values, counters)
what the driving conditions were at the time (frozen values)
status for the test (self-diagnosis) (status identifier)
how frequent the malfunction is (counter).

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.

Safety Warning

Diagnostics And Services: Counter: Notes

Use the Manual With the Right Hardware

When to See a Mechanic