Sealey VS8801 User manual

VS8801
EOBD CODE READER
(WITH LIVE DATA)
Original Language Version VS8801 Issue No.1 23/04/12

INTRODUCTION:
Save time and money, plus take the guess-work out of your fault-nding and diagnosis
with CAN enabled Sealey EOBD diagnostic tools - essential for the vehicle technician.
Allows interrogation of the vehicle’s ECU to determine the performance of essential
emission-based information, to read and clear Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) and to
obtain vital performance data from the vehicle’s engine. The competitively priced Model
No.VS8801 is the next generation of code reader, the size of which belies its power.
Unlike many other budget tools, which give only a code, this model gives a full denition
on the colour backlit LCD screen. Features freeze frame and live data, also includes a
patented One-Click I/M Readiness button to eliminate drive cycle guesswork using colour
coded LEDs and audible tone. These characteristics are usually only found on scanners
costing many times that of Model No.VS8801.
CONTENTs Page
1. sAfETy pRECAUTIONs....................................................................................................1
2. GENERAL INfORmATION..................................................................................................2
2.1 On Board Diagnostics (OBD II/EOBD).................................................................................2
2.2 Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) .......................................................................................2
2.3 Location of the Data Link Connector (DLC) .........................................................................3
2.4 EOBD Readiness Monitors..................................................................................................4
2.5 EOBD Monitor Readiness Status ........................................................................................5
2.6 EOBD Denitions.................................................................................................................6
2.7 EOBD Modes of Operation..................................................................................................7
3. UsING THE CODE READER............................................................................................10
3.1 Tool Description..................................................................................................................10
3.2 Specications.....................................................................................................................11
3.3 Accessories Included .........................................................................................................11
3.4 Navigation characters ........................................................................................................12
3.5 Keyboard............................................................................................................................12
3.6 Power.................................................................................................................................12
3.7 System Setup.....................................................................................................................12
3.8 About..................................................................................................................................21
3.9 Vehicle Coverage...............................................................................................................21
3.10 Product Troubleshooting ....................................................................................................22
4. EOBD DIAGNOsTICs .......................................................................................................24
4.1 Reading Codes ..................................................................................................................25
4.2 Erasing codes ....................................................................................................................28
4.3 Live Data............................................................................................................................30
4.4 Viewing Freeze Frame Data ..............................................................................................31
4.5 Retrieving I/M Readiness Status........................................................................................32
4.6 Viewing Vehicle Information...............................................................................................39
4.7 Exiting the EOBD Test ........................................................................................................40
5. READy TEsT ....................................................................................................................41
5.1 General Information ...........................................................................................................41
5.2 Test Tool Application...........................................................................................................41
5.3 LED and Tone Interpretation ..............................................................................................44
6. WARRANTy AND sERVICE .............................................................................................46
6.1 Limited One Year Warranty ................................................................................................46
6.2 Service procedures ............................................................................................................46
Original Language Version VS8801 Issue No.1 23/04/12

Thank you for purchasing a Sealey product. Manufactured to a high standard, this product will give you years of
trouble free performance, if these instructions are carefully followed and the product is correctly maintained.

NOTE: It is our policy to continually improve products and as such we reserve the right to alter data, specifications and component parts without prior notice.
IMPORTANT: No liability is accepted for incorrect use of this product.
WARRANTY: Guarantee is 12 months from purchase date, proof of which will be required for any claim.
INFORMATION: For a copy of our latest catalogue and promotions call us on 01284 757525 and leave your full name and address, including postcode.
01284 757500
01284 703534
[e-mail]
Sole UK Distributor, Sealey Group,
Kempson Way, Suffolk Business Park,
Bury St. Edmunds, Suffolk,
IP32 7AR
www.sealey.co.uk
Web
email
Original Language Version VS8801 Issue No.1 23/04/12
1. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS.
Wear safety eye protection that meets ANSI standards.
Operate the vehicle to be tested in a well ventilated area. Exhaust gases are
poisonous. If necessary connect the vehicle exhaust to a fume extraction system.
Place chocks in front of the drive wheels and never leave the vehicle unattended
whilst testing is in progress.
Be extra cautious when working in close proximity to the ignition coil, distributor
cap, ignition wires and spark plugs. These components create hazardous voltages
when the engine is running.
Ensure that the handbrake is on and the gearbox is in neutral or ‘Park’ for
automatic transmissions.
 Keepreextinguishersnearbysuitableforgasoline/chemical/electricalres.
Keep the code reader clean and in good condition.
Remain vigilant when using the code reader on, or near, machinery where there are
rotational parts such as belts, pulleys and fans.
 Removeillttingclothing.Removeties,watches,rings,andotherloosejewellery,
 andcontainand/ortiebacklonghair.
 Maintaincorrectbalanceandfooting.Ensuretheoorisnotslipperyandwear
non-slip shoes.
Keep Product Surfaces Clean and Dry.
DO NOT attempt to connect or disconnect any test equipment whilst the ignition
is on or the engine is running.
DO NOT use the code reader if damage is suspected. If suspected damage occurs
 withthedevice,haveitinspectedbyqualiedservicepersonnelbeforeusingit
again.
DO NOT get the code reader wet or use in damp or wet locations or areas where
there is condensation.
DO NOT use the code reader for any purpose other than for which it is designed.
DO NOT allow untrained persons to use code reader.
DO NOTusethecodereaderwhenyouaretiredorundertheinuenceof
alcohol, drugs or intoxicating medication.
DO NOToperateinapotentiallyexplosiveenvironment/atmosphere.
WARNING: The warnings, cautions and instructions discussed in this instruction
manual cannot cover all possible conditions and situations that may occur. It must
be understood that common sense and caution are factors which cannot be built
into this product, but must be applied by the operator.
IMPORTANT: PLEASE READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY. NOTE THE SAFE OPERATIONAL REQUIREMENTS,
WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS. USE THIS PRODUCT CORRECTLY AND WITH CARE FOR THE PURPOSE FOR WHICH IT
IS INTENDED. FAILURE TO DO SO MAY CAUSE DAMAGE AND/OR PERSONAL INJURY AND WILL INVALIDATE THE
WARRANTY. PLEASE KEEP INSTRUCTIONS SAFE FOR FUTURE USE.
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2. General Information
2.1 On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) II / EOBD
The first generation of On-Board Diagnostics (called OBD I) was
developed by the California Air Resources Board (ARB) and
implemented in 1988 to monitor some of the emission control
components on vehicles. As technology evolved and the desire to
improve the On-Board Diagnostic system increased, a new generation
of On-Board Diagnostic system was developed. This second generation
of On-Board Diagnostic regulations is called "OBD II". The European
version of OBDII is commonly referred to as EOBD and has protocols
developed for the European vehicle market.
The EOBD system is designed to monitor emission control systems
and key engine components by performing either continuous or
periodic tests of specific components and vehicle conditions. When a
problem is detected, the EOBD system turns on a warning lamp (MIL)
on the vehicle instrument panel to alert the driver typically by the
phrase of “Check Engine” or “Service Engine Soon”. The system will
also store important information about the detected malfunction so
that a technician can accurately find and fix the problem. Here below
follow three pieces of such valuable information:
1) Whether the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is
commanded 'on' or 'off';
2) Which, if any, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are stored;
3) Readiness Monitor status.
2.2 Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
EOBD Diagnostic Trouble Codes are codes that are stored by the
on-board computer diagnostic system in response to a problem found
in the vehicle. These codes identify a particular problem area and are
intended to provide you with a guide as to where a fault might be
occurring within a vehicle. EOBD Diagnostic Trouble Codes
consists of a five-digit alphanumeric code. The first character, a letter,
identifies which control system sets the code. The other four
characters, all numbers, provide additional information on where the
DTC originated and the operating conditions that caused it to set. Here
below is an example to illustrate the structure of the digits:

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2.3 Location of the Data Link Connector (DLC)
The DLC (Data Link Connector or Diagnostic Link Connector) is the
standardized 16-cavity connector where diagnostic code readers
interface with the vehicle's on-board computer. The DLC is usually
located 12 inches from the center of the instrument panel (dash),
under or around the driver‟s side for most vehicles. If Data Link
Connector is not located under dashboard, a label should be there
telling location. For some Asian and European vehicles, the DLC is
located behind the ashtray and the ashtray must be removed to access
Identifying specific
malfunctioning
section of the
systems
Systems
B=Body
C=Chassis
P=Powertrain
U=Network
Code Type
Generic (SAE):
P0, P2, P34-P39
B0, B3
C0, C3
U0, U3.
Manufacturer Specific:
P1, P30-p33
B1, B2
C1, C2
U1, U2
Sub-systems
1= Fuel and Air Metering
2= Fuel and Air Metering
3= Ignition System or Engine Misfire
4= Auxiliary Emission Controls
5= Vehicle Speed Control and Idle
Controls
6= Computer Output Circuits
7= Transmission Controls
8= Transmission Controls
DTC Example
P 0 2 0 2

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the connector. If the DLC cannot be found, refer to the vehicle‟s
service manual for the location.
2.4 EOBD Readiness Monitors
An important part of a vehicle‟s EOBD system is the Readiness
Monitors, which are indicators used to find out if all of the emissions
components have been evaluated by the EOBD system. They are
running periodic tests on specific systems and components to ensure
that they are performing within allowable limits.
Currently, there are eleven EOBD Readiness Monitors (or I/M
Monitors. Not all monitors are supported by all vehicles and the exact
number of monitors in any vehicle depends on the motor vehicle
manufacturer‟s emissions control strategy.
Continuous Monitors -- Some of the vehicle components or systems
are continuously tested by the vehicle‟s EOBD system, while others
are tested only under specific vehicle operating conditions. The
continuously monitored components listed below are always ready:
1）Misfire
2）Fuel System
3）Comprehensive Components (CCM)
Once the vehicle is running, the EOBD system is continuously
checking the above components, monitoring key engine sensors,
watching for engine misfire, and monitoring fuel demands.
Non-Continuous Monitors -- Unlike the continuous monitors, many
emissions and engine system components require the vehicle to be

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operated under specific conditions before the monitor is ready. These
monitors are termed non-continuous monitors. For different ignition
type engines, the available monitors are different too.
The following monitors are to be used for spark ignition engines
only:
1) EGR System
2) O2 Sensors
3) Catalyst
4) Evaporative System
5) O2 Sensor Heater
6) Secondary air
7) Heated Catalyst
The following monitors are to be used for compression ignition
engines only:
1) EGR System
2) NMHC Catalyst
3) NOx aftertreatment
4) Boost pressure system
5) Exhaust gas sensor
6) PM filter
2.5 EOBD Monitor Readiness Status
EOBD systems must indicate whether or not the vehicle‟s PCM‟s
monitor system has completed testing on each component.
Components that have been tested will be reported as “Ready”, or
“Complete”, meaning they have been tested by the EOBD system.
The purpose of recording readiness status is to allow inspectors to
determine if the vehicle‟s EOBD system has tested all the
components and/or systems.
The power-train control module (PCM) sets a monitor to “Ready” or
“Complete” after an appropriate drive cycle has been performed. The
drive cycle that enables a monitor and sets readiness codes to “Ready”
varies for each individual monitor. Once a monitor is set as “Ready”

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or “Complete”, it will remain in this state. A number of factors,
including erasing of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) with a code reader
or a disconnected battery, can result in Readiness Monitors being set
to “Not Ready”. Since the three continuous monitors are constantly
evaluating, they will be reported as “Ready” all of the time. If testing
of a particular supported non-continuous monitor has not been
completed, the monitor status will be reported as “Not Complete” or
“Not Ready.”
In order for the EOBD monitor system to become ready, the vehicle
should be driven under a variety of normal operating conditions.
These operating conditions may include a mix of highway driving and
stop and go, city type driving, and at least one overnight-off period.
For specific information on getting your vehicle‟s EOBD monitor
system ready, please consult your vehicle owner‟s manual.
2.6 EOBD Definitions
Power-train Control Module (PCM) -- EOBD terminology for the
on-board computer that controls engine and drive train.
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) -- Malfunction Indicator Light
(Service Engine Soon, Check Engine) is a term used for the light on
the instrument panel. It is to alert the driver and/or the repair
technician that there is a problem with one or more of vehicle's
systems and may cause emissions to exceed federal standards. If the
MIL illuminates with a steady light, it indicates that a problem has
been detected and the vehicle should be serviced as soon as possible.
Under certain conditions, the dashboard light will blink or flash. This
indicates a severe problem and flashing is intended to discourage
vehicle operation. The vehicle onboard diagnostic system can not turn
the MIL off until necessary repairs are completed or the condition no
longer exists.
DTC -- Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) that identify which section
of the emission control system has malfunctioned.
Enabling Criteria -- Also termed Enabling Conditions. They are the
vehicle-specific events or conditions that must occur within the
engine before the various monitors will set, or run. Some monitors

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require the vehicle to follow a prescribed “drive cycle” routine as part
of the enabling criteria. Drive cycles vary among vehicles and for
each monitor in any particular vehicle.
EOBD Drive Cycle -- A specific mode of vehicle operation that
provides conditions required to set all the readiness monitors
applicable to the vehicle to the “ready” condition. The purpose of
completing an EOBD drive cycle is to force the vehicle to run its
onboard diagnostics. Some form of a drive cycle needs to be
performed after DTCs have been erased from the PCM‟s memory or
after the battery has been disconnected. Running through a vehicle‟s
complete drive cycle will “set” the readiness monitors so that future
faults can be detected. Drive cycles vary depending on the vehicle and
the monitor that needs to be reset. For vehicle specific drive cycle,
consult the vehicle‟s Owner‟s Manual.
Freeze Frame Data -- When an emissions related fault occurs, the
EOBD system not only sets a code but also records a snapshot of the
vehicle operating parameters to help in identifying the problem. This
set of values is referred to as Freeze Frame Data and may include
important engine parameters such as engine RPM, vehicle speed, air
flow, engine load, fuel pressure, fuel trim value, engine coolant
temperature, ignition timing advance, or closed loop status.
2.7 EOBD Modes of Operation
Here is a basic introduction to the EOBD communication protocol.
Mode byte: The first byte in the stream is the mode number. There
are 9 modes for diagnostic requests, so this first byte is from 1 to 9.
The first byte in the response data bytes is this same number plus 64.
For example, a mode 1 request would have the first data byte = 1,
and the response would have the first data byte = 65. Here is a brief
description of the modes:
Mode $01 - Identifies the Powertrain information and shows
current data available to the code reader.This data includes: DTCs
set, status of on-board tests and vehicle data such as engine RPM,
temperatures, ignition advance, speed, air flow rates, and closed loop
status for fuel system.