Communication Error

It is possible to get a communication error from a scan tool when initiating a diagnostic test or accessing Parameter Identifications (PIDs). The communication error may be caused by operator error, vehicle wiring, connectors, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) or other control modules connected to the Data Link Connector (DLC) wiring. The PCM will respond to a scan tool whenever the tool requests a test.






Listed are some numeric codes and generic descriptions that a scan tool may display when trying to perform some PCM operations. It is possible to get other numeric codes not listed. For a complete list of communication response codes, refer to Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) document J2190 enhanced E/E Diagnostic Test Modes. Some are normal responses to valid requests. The others are communication error responses.

After checking scan tool connections, cable/adapters and entry of vehicle information, the tool displays any of the communication error responses, refer to Pinpoint Test Step QA1. QA1 - QA4