FREE REPAIR MANUALS & LABOR GUIDES 1982-2013 Vehicles
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Mode 3 Procedure

NOTE: For the Mode 3 driving procedure, it is best to use a stopwatch for accurate timing of the drive cycle.

WARNING: Strict observance of posted speed limits and attention to driving conditions are mandatory when proceeding through the following drive cycle.

NOTE: Observing the diagnostic monitors while performing this mode will verify when the mode is complete, as the monitors will clear If Mode 3 is performed properly and the monitors do not clear, either Mode 1 was not successfully completed or a concern exists with the vehicle.

Mode 3:





1. Key OFF.
2. Connect New Generation STAR (NGS) to the OBD II Data Link Connector (DLC).
3. Access the Vehicle Speed Sensor (VSS) and Throttle Position (TP) Parameter Identifications (PIDs) from the Generic OBD II Functions menu option.
4. Ensure that all accessories are OFF, including A/C.
5. Start the engine and the stopwatch.
6. Drive the vehicle for approximately 5 minutes at any legal speed (no particular driving pattern is necessary).
7. When the stopwatch indicates 5 minutes, drive the vehicle between 26-56 kph (16-35 mph) as indicated by the speedometer. Be very careful not to exceed 25% (1/4) throttle position as indicated by NGS.

NOTE: If the vehicle speed drops below the indicated speed, the monitoring will temporarily stop until the vehicle reaches the proper speed range again.

8. Drive with steady throttle at the specified speed, until the stopwatch indicates 18 minutes. A total of 7 minutes in the desired speed range is required for the Oxygen Sensor (O2S) monitor to complete.
9. When the stopwatch indicates 18 minutes, drive with a steady throttle between 31-48 kph (19-30 mph) as indicated by NGS or 35-46 kph (22-29 mph) as indicated by the speedometer. Drive at this pattern for at least 20 seconds. At this point the catalyst monitor is complete.
10. Turn the key OFF and disconnect the test equipment.