Engine Controls - DTC Stored Without MIL Or O/D Light On

SOURCE: KIA Technician Times Volume 5 Issue 4, 2002

TITLE: DTC - Stored Without MIL Or O/D Light On

APPLIES TO: All

SERVICE TIP:


In the past, any and all stored DTCs would cause the "check engine" light (MIL) to come on or (in case of transmission- related concerns) would cause the O/D light to start flashing.

However, in recent years, some DTCs stored do not cause the MIL to come on. Example: P0460 (Fuel level sensor circuit malfunction) in 2000 and later MY Sephia/Spectra.

For all models except Sportage, additional DTCs were programmed in 2002 MY vehicles to not illuminate the MIL, even though the code will still be stored when certain preset limits are exceeded. In addition, the O/D light that used to flash when an A/T related DTC had been stored no longer does in 2002 Spectra.

Please be aware of these changes during diagnosis. Anytime you retrieve DTCs because the MIL is on, additional DTCs from the list below may also show up. Depending on which of these "dark" DTCs you find (which may have been stored before a "regular" DTC actually caused the MIL to come on) you'll have to adapt your diagnosis and repair accordingly. Alternatively, it also means that you'll always have to scan for codes to diagnose a customer concern even if the MIL is not on.

See table below for 2002 model specific information on which DTCs will be stored without illuminating the MIL.






Note that for some models, DTC specific information (including whether or not a DTC will illuminate the MIL after 1 or 2 drive cycles, or not at all) is also contained in the Hi-Scan Pro "help" section. To find out more about what conditions will cause a DTC to be stored and whether a MIL will occur, first retrieve the codes. Once they are displayed on the Hi-Scan Pro screen, highlight the code you want information on then press F1 for "help". Select "tips" using up or down arrow buttons, and then press "enter".