Using the Diagnostic Tool
I/M READINESS TESTING
OBD2 47
If a "PENDING" Diagnostic Trouble
Code is causing the yellow LED to
light, it is possible that the vehicle will
be allowed to be tested for emissions
and certified. Currently, most areas
(states / countries) will allow an
Emissions Test (Smog Check) to be
performed if the only code in the
vehicle's computer is a "PENDING"
Diagnostic Trouble Code.
If the illumination of the Yellow LED
is being caused by monitors that
“have not run” their diagnostic
testing, then the issue of the vehicle
being ready for an Emissions Test
(Smog Check) depends on the
emissions regulations and laws of
your local area.
- Some areas require that all
Monitors indicate a "Has Run"
status before they allow an Emissions Test (Smog Check) to
be performed. Other areas only require that some, but not all,
Monitors have run their self-diagnostic testing before an
Emissions Test (Smog Check) may be performed.
From the code retrieval procedure, determine the status of
each Monitor (a solid Monitor icon shows Monitor "Has Run"
status, a flashing Monitor icon indicates "Has Not Run" status).
Take this information to an emissions professional to
determine (based on your test results) if your vehicle is ready
for an Emissions Test (Smog Check).
3. RED LED - Indicates there is a problem
with one or more of the vehicle's systems.
A vehicle displaying a red LED is definitely
not ready for an Emissions Test (Smog
Check). The red LED is also an indication
that there are Diagnostic Trouble Code(s)
present (displayed on the Diagnostic
Tool's screen). The Multifunction Indicator
(Check Engine) Lamp on the vehicle's
instrument panel will light steady. The
problem that is causing the red LED to
light must be repaired before an Emissions Test (Smog Check) can be
performed. It is also suggested that the vehicle be inspected/repaired
before driving the vehicle further.
4. Flashing Red and Yellow LEDs – Indicates that a "permanent"
code has been set, and one or more of the vehicle’s monitors has
failed its diagnostic testing. A "permanent" DTC can be cleared only
by the vehicle's computer following successful completion of the
monitor that caused the fault to set.
If the Red LED or flashing RED and YELLOW LEDs were obtained,
there is a definite problem present in the system(s). In these cases,
you have the following options.
