Intermittent Failures
The term "intermittent failure" means a system may have had a failure, but it checks OK now. If the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) on the dash does not come on, check for poor connections or loose pins at all connectors related to the circuit that you are troubleshooting. If the MIL was on, but then went out, the original problem may have been intermittent.
Opens and Shorts
"Open" and "Short" are common electrical terms. An open is a break in a wire or at a connection. A short is an accidental connection of a wire to ground or to another wire. In simple electronics, this usually means something won't work at all. With complex electronics (such as ECMs) this can sometimes mean something works, but not the way it's supposed to.
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- Start the engine, and check the MIL (A). NOTE: If the ignition switch is turned ON (II), and the engine is not started, the MIL will stay on for 15-20 seconds (see «HOW TO SET READINESS CODES»(ref-221338-S12970398692006022400000) ).
- If the MIL stays on, connect the HDS to the data link connector (DLC) (A) located behind the driver's side of the front console.
- Turn the ignition switch ON (II).
- Make sure the HDS communicates with the vehicle and the ECM. If it doesn't go to the DLC circuit troubleshooting (see «DLC CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING»(ref-351945-S34342936082009122900000) ).
- Check the diagnostic trouble code (DTC) and note it. Also check the freeze data and on-board snapshot data, and download any data found. Then refer to the indicated DTC's troubleshooting, and begin the appropriate troubleshooting procedure. NOTE: Freeze data indicates the engine conditions when the first malfunction, misfire, or fuel trim malfunction was detected. The HDS can read the DTC, freeze data, current data, and other engine control module (ECM) data. For specific operations, refer to the user's manual that came with the HDS.
- If no DTCs are found, go to MIL troubleshooting (see «MIL CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING»(ref-351945-S30666237332009122900000) ).
If the MIL did not stay on
If the MIL did not stay on but there is a driveability problem, do the symptom troubleshooting.
HDS Clear Command
The ECM stores various specific data to correct the system even if there is no electrical power such as when the battery negative terminal or ACGS (15 A) fuse are disconnected. Stored data based on failed parts should be cleared by using the "CLEAR COMMAND" of the HDS, if parts are replaced.
The HDS has three kinds of clear commands to meet this purpose. They are DTC clear, ECM reset, and CKP pattern clear. DTC clear command erases all stored DTC codes, freeze data, readiness codes, and on-board snapshot. This must be done with the HDS after reproducing the DTC during troubleshooting.
The ECM reset command erases all stored DTC codes, freeze data, readiness codes, on-board snapshot, and all specific data to correct the system except CKP pattern. If the CKP pattern data in the ECM was cleared, you must do the CKP pattern learn procedure. The CKP pattern clear command erases only CKP pattern data. This command is for repair of a misfire or the CKP sensor.
Learn Procedure (without the HDS)
- Start the engine. Hold the engine speed at 3,000 RPM without load (in neutral) until the radiator fan comes on.
- Test-drive the vehicle on a level road: Decelerate (with the throttle fully closed) from an engine speed of 2,500 RPM down to 1,000 RPM with the transmission in 1st gear.
- Repeat step 2 several times.
- Turn the ignition switch OFF.
- Turn the ignition switch ON (II), and wait 30 seconds. The CKP pattern learn procedure is complete.
Updating the ECM
Special Tools Required
Honda Diagnostic System (HDS)TDSGDS2200* or HDS Pocket Tester TDSS3557011401 *
* Available through the Honda Tool and Equipment Program 888-424-6857.
Note. Make sure the HDS is loaded with the latest software version. Before you update an ECM, make sure the battery in the vehicle is fully charged. Never turn the ignition switch OFF during the update. If there is a problem with the update, leave the ignition switch ON. To prevent ECM damage, do not operate anything electrical (audio system, brakes, A/C, power windows, door locks, etc.) during the update. To ensure the latest program is installed, do an ECM update whenever the ECM is substituted or replaced. You cannot update an ECM with the program it already has. It will only accept a new program.
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- Turn the ignition switch ON (II), but do not start the engine.
- Connect the HDS to the data link connector (DLC) (A) located behind the driver's side of the front console.
- Make sure the HDS communicates with the ECM. If it doesn't, go to DLC circuit troubleshooting (see «DLC CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING»(ref-351945-S34342936082009122900000) ).
- Select the PGM-FI system with the HDS.
- Select the INSPECTION MENU.
- Select the ETCS TEST, then select TP POSITION CHECK, and follow the screen prompts. NOTE: If the TP POSITION CHECK indicates FAILED, continue with this procedure.
- Exit the HDS diagnostic system, then select the update mode and follow the screen prompts to update the ECM.
- If the software in the ECM is the latest, disconnect the HDS from the DLC, and go back to the procedure that you were doing. If the software in the ECM is not the latest, follow the instructions on the screen. NOTE: If you run into a problem (programming takes over 15 minutes, status bar goes over 100%, or immobilizer light flashes, HDS tablet freezes, etc.) during the update procedure, follow these steps to minimize the chance of damaging the ECM. Leave the ignition switch in the "ON" (II) position. Connect a jumper battery (do not connect a battery charger). Shut down the HDS. Disconnect the HDS from the DLC. Reboot the HDS. Reconnect the HDS to the DLC, and try the update procedure again.
- If the TP POSITION CHECK failed in step 6 , clean the throttle body (see «THROTTLE BODY CLEANING»(ref-221344-S34818382722006022400000) ).
- Do the ECM idle learn procedure (see «ECM IDLE LEARN PROCEDURE»(ref-221342-S09897997502006022400000) ).
- Do the CKP pattern clear/CKP pattern learn procedure (see «HDS CLEAR COMMAND»(ref-221338-S37856226892006022400000) ).
Substituting the ECM
Note. Use this procedure when substituting a known-good ECM during troubleshooting procedures.
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- Connect the HDS to the data link connector (DLC) (A) located behind the driver's side of the front console.
- Turn the ignition switch ON (II).
- Make sure the HDS communicates with the ECM. If it doesn't go to the DLC circuit troubleshooting (see «DLC CIRCUIT TROUBLESHOOTING»(ref-351945-S34342936082009122900000) ).
- Select the PGM-FI system with the HDS.
- Select the INSPECTION MENU.
- Select the ETCS TEST, then select TP POSITION CHECK, and follow the screen prompts. NOTE: If the TP POSITION CHECK indicates FAILED, continue with this procedure.
- Turn the ignition switch OFF.
- Jump the SCS line with the HDS.
- Remove the left side kick panel (see «TRIM REMOVAL/INSTALLATION - DOOR AREAS»(ref-221365-S37075338132006022400000) ).
- Disconnect ECM connectors (A).
- Remove the bolts (B), then remove the ECM (C).
- Install the known-good ECM in the reverse order of removal.
- Open the SCS line with the HDS.
- Turn the ignition switch ON (II).
- Manually input the VIN to the ECM with the HDS.
- Select the IMMOBIL system.
- Enter the immobilizer code in the ECM replacement procedure; it allows the engine to start.
- Select the PGM-FI system.
- Reset the ECM with the HDS.
- Update the ECM if it does not have the latest software (see «UPDATING THE ECM»(ref-221338-S06618208692006022400000) ).
- If the TP POSITION CHECK failed in step 6 , clean the throttle body (see «THROTTLE BODY CLEANING»(ref-221344-S34818382722006022400000) ).
- Do the ECM idle learn procedure (see «ECM IDLE LEARN PROCEDURE»(ref-221342-S09897997502006022400000) ).
- Do the CKP pattern clear/ CKP pattern learn procedure (see «HDS CLEAR COMMAND»(ref-221338-S37856226892006022400000) ).
OBD Status
The OBD status shows the current system status of each DTC and all of the parameters. This function is used to see if the repair was successfully completed. The results of diagnostic tests for the DTC are displayed as
- PASSED: On board diagnosis is successfully finished.
- FAILED: On board diagnosis has finished but failed.
- EXECUTING: The vehicle is in enable criteria conditions for the DTC and the on board diagnosis is running.
- NOT COMPLETED: The on board diagnosis was running but is out of the enable conditions of the DTC.
- OUT OF CONDITION: The vehicle has stayed out of the enable conditions of the DTC.
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Electronic Control System
The functions of the fuel and emission control systems are managed by the engine control module (ECM) on vehicles with manual transmission.
Fail-safe Function
When an abnormality occurs in the signal from a sensor or from another control unit, the ECM ignores that signal, stores a DTC and turns on the MIL. The ECM will use a pre-programmed value for that sensor which allows the engine to continue running. This causes a DTC to be stored and the MIL to comes on.
MIL Bulb Check and Readiness Code Condition
When the ignition switch is turned ON (II), the ECM supplies ground to the MIL circuit for about 15 to 20 seconds to check the bulb condition. If any readiness codes are not set to complete, the MIL flashes five times. If all readiness codes are set to complete, the MIL goes out.
Self Shut Down (SSD) Mode
After the ignition switch is turned OFF, the ECM stays on (up to 15 minutes). If the ECM connector is disconnected during this time, the ECM may be damaged. To cancel this mode, disconnect the negative cable from the battery or jump the SCS line with the HDS after the ignition switch is turned OFF.
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PGM-FI System
The programmed fuel injection (PGM-FI) system is a sequential multiport fuel injection system.
Air Conditioning (A/C) Compressor Clutch Relay
When the ECM receives a demand for cooling from the A/C system, it delays the compressor from being energized, and enriches the mixture to assure smooth transition to the A/C mode.
Air Fuel Ratio (A/F) Sensor
The A/F sensor operates over a wide air/fuel range. The A/F sensor is installed upstream of the TWC, and sends signals to the ECM which varies the duration of fuel injection accordingly.
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Barometric Pressure (BARO) Sensor
The BARO sensor is inside the ECM. It converts atmospheric pressure into a voltage signal that the ECM uses to modifies the basic duration of the fuel injection discharge.
Camshaft Position (CMP) Sensor
CMP sensor detects the position of the No. 1 cylinder as a reference for sequential fuel injection to each cylinder.
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Crankshaft Position (CKP) Sensor
The CKP sensor detects crankshaft speed and is used by the ECM to determine ignition timing and timing for fuel injection of each cylinder as well as detecting engine misfire.
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Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor 1/Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) Sensor 2
The ECT sensor 1/ECT sensor 2 is a temperature dependent resistor (thermistor). The resistance of the thermistor decreases as the engine coolant temperature increases.
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Ignition Timing Control
The ECM contains the memory for basic ignition timing at various engine speeds and manifold absolute pressure. It also adjusts the timing according to engine coolant temperature and intake air temperature.
Injector Timing and Duration
The ECM contains the memory for basic discharge duration at various engine speeds and manifold pressures. The basic discharge duration, after being read out from the memory, is further modified by signals sent from various sensors to obtain the final discharge duration.
By monitoring long term fuel trim, the ECM detects long term malfunctions in the fuel system and sets a diagnostic trouble code (DTC).
Intake Air Temperature (IAT) Sensor
The IAT sensor is a temperature dependent resistor (thermistor). The resistance of the thermistor decreases as the intake air temperature increases.
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Knock Sensor
The knock control system adjusts the ignition timing to minimize knock, using signals from the knock sensor.
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Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Indication (In relation to Readiness Codes)
The vehicle has certain "readiness codes" that are part of the on-board diagnostics for the emissions systems. If the vehicle's battery has been disconnected or gone dead, if the DTCs have been cleared, or if the ECM has been reset, these codes are reset. In some states, part of the emissions testing is to make sure these codes are set to complete. If all of them are not set to complete, the vehicle may fail the test, or the test cannot be finished.
To check if the readiness codes are set to complete, turn the ignition switch ON (II), but do not start the engine. The MIL will come on for 15-20 seconds. If it then goes off, the readiness codes are complete. If it flashes five times, one or more readiness codes are not complete. To set each code, drive the vehicle or run the engine as described in the procedures (see HOW TO SET READINESS CODES ).
Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensor
The MAP sensor converts manifold absolute pressure into electrical signals to the ECM.
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Output Shaft (Countershaft) Speed Sensor
This sensor detects countershaft speed.
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Secondary Heated Oxygen Sensor (Secondary HO2S)
The secondary HO2S detects the oxygen content in the exhaust gas downstream of the three way catalytic converter (TWC), and sends signals to the ECM which varies the duration of fuel injection accordingly. To stabilize its output, the sensor has an internal heater. The ECM compares the HO2S output with the A/F sensor output to determine catalyst efficiency. The secondary HO2S is located on the TWC.
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Electronic Throttle Control System
The throttle is electronically controlled by the electronic throttle control system. Refer to the system diagram to see a functional layout of the system.
Idle control: When the engine is idling, the ECM controls the throttle actuator to maintain the proper idle speed according to engine loads.
Acceleration control: When the accelerator pedal is pressed, the ECM opens the throttle valve depending on the accelerator pedal position (APP) sensor signal.
Cruise control: The ECM controls the throttle actuator to maintain set speed when the cruise control is operating. The throttle actuator takes the place of the cruise control actuator.
Accelerator Pedal Position (APP) Sensor
As the accelerator pedal position changes, the sensor varies the signal voltage to the ECM.
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Throttle Body
The throttle body is a single-barrel side draft type. The lower portion of the throttle valve is heated by engine coolant from the cylinder head to prevent icing of the throttle plate.
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Idle Control System
When the engine is cold, the A/C compressor is on, the transmission is in gear, the brake pedal is pressed, the power steering load is high, or the alternator is charging, the ECM controls current to the throttle actuator to maintain the correct idle speed.
Brake Pedal Position Switch
The brake pedal position switch signals the ECM when the brake pedal is pressed.
Electrical Power Steering (EPS) Signal
The EPS signals the ECM when the power steering load is high.
Engine Start Switch
The engine start switch signals the ECM when the engine is cranking.
Fuel Cut-off Control
During deceleration with the throttle valve closed, current to the injectors is cut off to improve fuel economy at engine speeds over 1,050 RPM. Fuel cut-off control also occurs when the engine speed exceeds 8,200 RPM, regardless of the position of the throttle valve, to protect the engine from over-revving. Engine speed of fuel cut is lower on a cold engine.
Fuel Pump Control
When the ignition is turned on, the ECM grounds PGM-FI main relay 2 (FUEL PUMP) which feeds current to the fuel pump for 2 seconds to pressurize the fuel system. With the engine running, the ECM grounds PGM-FI main relay 2 (FUEL PUMP) and feeds current to the fuel pump. When the engine is not running and the ignition is on, the ECM cuts ground to PGM-FI main relay 2 (FUEL PUMP) which cuts current to the fuel pump.
PGM-FI Main Relay 1 (FI MAIN) and 2 (FUEL PUMP)
PGM-FI main relay 1 (FI MAIN) is energized whenever the ignition switch is ON (II) to supply battery voltage to the ECM, power to the injectors, and power for PGM-FI main relay 2 (FUEL PUMP). PGM-FI main relay 2 (FUEL PUMP) is energized to supply power to the fuel pump for 2 seconds when the ignition switch is turned ON (II), and when the engine is cranking or running.
TWC (Three Way Catalytic Converter)
The TWC converts hydrocarbons (HC), carbon monoxide (CO), and oxides of nitrogen (NOx) in the exhaust gas to carbon dioxide (CO 2 ), nitrogen (N 2 ), and water vapor.
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Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) System
The PCV valve prevents blow-by gases from escaping into the atmosphere by venting them into the intake manifold.
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Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Control System
Refer to the system diagram to see the functional layout of the system.
EVAP Canister
The EVAP canister temporarily stores fuel vapor from the fuel tank until it can be purged from the EVAP canister into the engine and burned.
EVAP Canister Purge Valve
When the engine coolant temperature is below 149 °F (65 °C), the ECM turns off the EVAP canister purge valve which cuts vacuum to the EVAP canister.
Fuel Tank Pressure (FTP) Sensor
The FTP sensor converts fuel tank absolute pressure into an electrical input to the ECM.
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EVAP Canister Vent Shut Valve
The EVAP canister vent shut valve is on the EVAP canister.
The EVAP canister vent shut valve controls the venting of the EVAP canister.
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Fuel Cap Warning Message
The ECM detects whether the fuel fill cap is loose or missing under certain conditions and alerts the driver by showing the information in the odometer/outside temperature display. If the ECM detects a small volume leak, the MIL may come on during the second drive cycle and store a DTC.
First drive cycle
During the first drive cycle after a cold start, the ECM alerts the driver to check the fuel fill cap by showing a "CHECK FUEL CAP" message in the odometer/outside temperature display (A), and it stores Temporary DTC P0457 "Evaporative Emission (EVAP) System Leak Detected/Fuel Fill Cap Loose or Missing". Tightening the fuel cap does not make the message go off immediately.
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Procedure
- Tighten the fuel fill cap until it cllicks.
- Clear the Temporary DTC with the HDS.
- Verify there is no leak by doing the EVAP FUNCTION TEST in the INSPECTION MENU with the HDS..
- Tighten the fuel fill cap until it clicks.
- The message should go off after several days of normal driving.
- Tighten the fuel fill cap until it cllicks.
- Start the Engine,then turn the ignition switch to LOCK (0).
- Repeat step 2 two more times.
Electronic Throttle Control System Diagram
The electronic throttle control system consists of the throttle actuator, throttle position (TP) sensor A/B, accelerator pedal position (APP) sensor A/B, throttle actuator control module, and the ECM.
Scheme 39
Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Control Diagram
The EVAP controls minimize the amount of fuel vapor escaping to the atmosphere. Vapor from the fuel tank is temporarily stored in the EVAP canister until it can be purged from the canister into the engine and burned.
The EVAP canister is purged by drawing fresh air through it and into a port on the intake manifold.
The purging vacuum is controlled by the EVAP canister purge valve, which operates whenever engine coolant temperature is above 149 °F (65 °C).
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The vehicle has certain "readiness codes" that are part of the on-board diagnostics for the emissions systems. If the vehicle's battery has been disconnected or gone dead, if the DTCs have been cleared, or if the ECM has been reset, these readiness codes are reset to incomplete. In some states, part of the emissions testing is to make sure these codes are set to complete. If all of them are not set to complete, the vehicle may fail the emission test, or the test cannot be finished.
To check if the readiness codes are set to complete, turn the ignition switch ON (II), but do not start the engine. The MIL will come on for 15-20 seconds. If it then goes off, the readiness codes are complete. If it flashes five times, one or more readiness codes are not set to complete. To set readiness codes from incomplete to complete, do the procedure for the appropriate code.
To check the status of a specific DTC system, check the OBD status in the DTC MENU with the HDS (see SUBSTITUTING THE ECM ). This screen displays the code, the current data list of the enable criteria, and the status of the readiness testing.
Catalytic Converter Monitor and Readiness Code
Note. Do not turn the ignition switch off during the procedure. All readiness codes are cleared when the battery is disconnected, if the DTCs have been cleared, or if the ECM is reset with the HDS. Low ambient temperatures or excessive stop-and-go traffic may increase the drive time needed to switch the readiness code from incomplete to complete. The readiness code will not switch to complete until all the enable criteria are met. If a fault in the secondary HO2S system caused the MIL to come on, the readiness code cannot be set to complete until you correct the fault.
Enable Criteria
- ECT at 158 °F (70 °C) or higher.
- Intake air temperature (IAT) at 20 °F (-7 °C) or higher.
- Vehicle speed sensor (VSS) reads more than 25 mph (40 km/h).
- Connect the HDS to the vehicle's data link connector (DLC), and bring up the READINESS CODES screen for Catalyst in the DTCs MENU.
- Start the engine.
- Test-drive the vehicle under stop-and-go conditions with short periods of steady cruise. After about 5 miles (8 km), the readiness code should switch to completed.
- If the readiness code is still not set to complete, check for a Temporary DTC with the HDS. If there is no DTC, one or more of the enable criteria were probably not met; repeat the procedure.
Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Control System Monitor and Readiness Code
Note. All readiness codes are cleared when the battery is disconnected, if the DTCs have been cleared, or if the ECM is reset with the HDS.
- Battery voltage is higher than 10.5 V.
- Engine at idle.
- ECT sensor between 176 °F (80 °C) and 212 °F (100 °C).
- MAP sensor less than 46.6 kPa (14 in.Hg, 350 mmHg).
- Vehicle speed 0 mph (0 km/h).
- IAT sensor between 32 °F (0 °C) and 212 °F (100 °C).
- Connect the HDS to the vehicle's data link connector (DLC).
- Start the engine.
- Select EVAP TEST in the INSPECTION MENU with the HDS, then select the FUNCTION TEST in the EVAP TEST MENU. If the result is are normal, readiness is complete. If the result is are not normal, go to the next step.
- Check for a Temporary DTC. If there is no DTC, one or more of the enable criteria were probably not met; repeat the procedure.
Air Fuel Ratio (A/F) Sensor Monitor and Readiness Code
Note. Do not turn the ignition switch off during the procedure. All readiness codes are cleared when the battery is disconnected, if the DTCs have been cleared, or if the ECM is reset with the HDS.
ECT at 140 °F (60°C) or higher.
- Start the engine.
- Test-drive the vehicle under stop-and-go conditions with short periods of steady cruise. During the drive, decelerate (with the throttle fully closed) for 5 seconds. After about 3.5 miles (5.6 km), the readiness code should switch from incomplete to complete.
- Check the readiness codes screen for the AIR FUEL RATIO (A/F) SENSOR in the DTCs MENU with the HDS. If the screen shows complete, readiness is complete. If the screen shows not complete, go to the next step.
- Check for a Temporary DTC. If there is no DTC, the enable criteria was probably not met. Select the DATA LIST Menu. Check the ECT in the ALL DATA LIST with the HDS. If the ECT is lower than 140 °F (60 °C), run the engine until it is higher than 140 °F (60 °C), then repeat the procedure.
Air Fuel Ratio (A/F) Sensor Heater Monitor Readiness Code
Note. All readiness codes are cleared when the battery is disconnected, if the DTCs have been cleared, or if the ECM is reset with the HDS.
- Start the engine, and let it idle for 1 minute. The readiness code should switch from incomplete to complete.
- If the readiness code is still not set to complete, check for a Temporary DTC. If there is no DTC, repeat the procedure.
Misfire Monitor and Readiness Code
- This readiness code is always set to available because misfiring is continuously monitored.
- Monitoring pauses, and the misfire counter resets, if the vehicle is driven over a rough road.
- Monitoring also pauses, and the misfire counter holds at its current value, if the throttle position changes more than a predetermined value, or if driving conditions fall outside the range of any related enable criteria.
Fuel System Monitor and Readiness Code
- This readiness code is always set to available because the fuel system is continuously monitored during closed loop operation.
- Monitoring pauses when the catalytic converter, EVAP control system, and A/F sensor monitors are active.
- Monitoring also pauses when any related enable criteria are not being met. Monitoring resumes when the enable criteria is again being met.
Comprehensive Component Monitor and Readiness Code
This readiness code is always set to available because the comprehensive component monitor is continuously running whenever the engine is cranking or running.