Reading and Clearing Diagnostic Trouble Codes

Data Link Connector:

NOTE: Make sure the vehicle being tested has a fully charged battery. If it does not, false diagnostic error messages may occur.

1. Disconnect and isolate the battery negative cable. If the airbag has not been deployed, wait two minutes for the system capacitor to discharge before further service.
2. Connect the DRB scan tool to the 16-way data link wire harness connector. The connector is located on the driver side lower edge of the instrument panel, outboard of the steering column.
3. Turn the ignition switch to the On position. Exit the vehicle with the DRB. Use the latest version of the proper DRB cartridge.
4. After checking that nobody is inside the vehicle, reconnect the battery negative cable.
5. Using the DRB, read and record the active Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) data.
6. Read and record any stored DTC data.
7. Refer to Diagnostic Charts if any DTC is found in Step 5 or Step 6. [1][2]Body Control Module
8. Erase the stored DTC data. If any problems remain, the stored DTC data will not erase.
9. With the ignition switch still in the On position, make sure nobody is in the vehicle.
10. From outside of the vehicle (away from the airbag modules in case of an accidental deployment) turn the ignition switch to the Off position for about ten seconds, and then back to the On position. Observe the airbag indicator lamp in the instrument cluster. It should light for six to eight seconds, and then go out. This indicates that the airbag system is functioning normally.

NOTE: If the airbag indicator lamp fails to light, or lights and stays on, there is an airbag system malfunction. Refer to Powertrain Management/Computers and Controls/Information Bus.

DRB III OR SCAN TOOL DOES NOT POWER UP
If the LED's do not light or no sound is emitted at start up, check for loose cable connections or a bad cable. Check the vehicle battery voltage (data link connector cavity 16). A minimum of 11 volts is required to adequately power the DRB.

If all connections are proper between the DRB or scan tool and the vehicle or other devices, and the vehicle battery is fully charged, an inoperative DRB or scan tool may be the result of faulty cable or vehicle wiring. Perform Vehicle Communication TEST 1A.
1A Identifying Vehicle Communication Problems