Troubleshooter

Quick Reference Guide

March 2008

EAZ0025B29B Rev. C

Trademarks Acknowledgement
Snap-on, Scanner, and Fast-Track are trademarks of Snap-on Incorporated.
All other marks are trademarks of their respective holders.

Copyright Information
2008 Snap-on Incorporated.
All rights reserved.

Disclaimer
The information, specifications, and illustrations in this manual are based on the latest information available
at the time of publication. Snap-on and the vehicle manufacturers reserve the right to make equipment
changes at any time without notice.

Vehicle Modification Notice

When ignition timing, idle speed, spark plug gap, or other adjustments are altered from original
specifications in accordance with a manufacturer service bulletin, the vehicle emission control information
(VECI) decal should be altered to indicate the revision. Alternatively, a modification label can be made and
placed in the engine compartment near the original VECI decal.

Visit our Web site at:

www.snapon.com

For Technical Assistance Call:

1-800-424-7226

Contents

Contents ............................................................................................................................... 1
Chapter 1: Using This Manual............................................................................................. 2
Conventions ........................................................................................................................... 2
Bold Text ......................................................................................................................... 2
Terminology..................................................................................................................... 2
Select............................................................................................................................... 2
Scroll................................................................................................................................ 2
Scan Tool ........................................................................................................................ 3
Notes and Important Messages....................................................................................... 3
Procedures ...................................................................................................................... 3
Chapter 2: Introduction ....................................................................................................... 4
Fast Track Troubleshooter Software .................................................................................... 4
Troubleshooter Categories .............................................................................................. 5
Additional Troubleshooter Features ................................................................................ 6
Fast Track Troubleshooter References................................................................................ 7
Chapter 3: Getting Started .................................................................................................. 8
Installing the Fast Track Troubleshooter References DVD .................................................. 8
Minimum System Requirements...................................................................................... 8
Fast Track Troubleshooter References DVD Installation............................................... 8
Accessing Fast Track Troubleshooter.................................................................................. 9
Making Selections .................................................................................................................. 9
Exiting Troubleshooter ......................................................................................................... 10
Chapter 4: Diagnostic Practices ....................................................................................... 11
Trouble Code Diagnosis ...................................................................................................... 11
OBD-II Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)..................................................................... 11
Technical Service Bulletins .................................................................................................. 12
Vehicle Modifications ........................................................................................................... 12

Chapter 1

Using This Manual

This manual contains instructions for using the Fast-Track Troubleshooter. The following
conventions are used.

1.1 Conventions
1.1.1 Bold Text
Bold text is used for emphasis and to highlight selectable items such as buttons and menu
options.
Example:
Press the Exit button.

1.1.2 Terminology
Certain terms are used to command specific actions throughout this manual. Those terms are
described below.

1.1.3 Select
The term select will be used to mean selecting a menu item or other option and confirming
the selection using the input device.
Example:
Select Exit.

1.1.4 Scroll
The term scroll will be used to mean moving the cursor or changing data by turning the
Thumbwheel, pressing the Thumb Pad, or pressing the arrow keys.
Example:
Scroll to see any other codes and the data list.

Conventions

1.1.5 Scan Tool

The term scan tool will be used to refer to any diagnostic tool that can access information
from the vehicle data stream. When necessary, the term Scanner will be used to
distinguish our equipment from another diagnostic device, such as the manufacturers scan
tool.

1.1.6 Notes and Important Messages

The following messages appear throughout this manual.

Notes
A NOTE provides helpful information such as explanations, tips, and comments.
Example:

NOTE:
For additional information refer to...

Important
IMPORTANT indicates a situation which, if not avoided, may result in damage to the test
equipment or vehicle.
Example:
IMPORTANT:
Disconnecting the USB cable during vehicle communication can cause damage to the ECU.

1.1.7 Procedures
An arrow icon indicates a procedure.
Example:

To change screen views:

1. Select View.
The drop-down menu displays.
2. Select an option from the menu.
The screen layout changes to the format you selected.

Introduction

Chapter 2

The Fast Track Troubleshooter system simplifies the time consuming part of diagnosis. The
system contains information on common diagnostic trouble code (DTC) problems and
driveability symptoms for most vehicles covered by the vehicle communication software
(VCS).
Information in the Fast Track Troubleshooter is organized into a series of diagnostic tips that
are designed to quickly lead you to the root cause of a particular problem on the test vehicle.
Tips are vehicle specific, which means that only those tips that relate to the vehicle identified
to the scan tool are presented. The Fast Track Troubleshooter system consists of two parts:

Fast Track Troubleshooter Software

Fast Track Troubleshooter References
While the system does not cover every possible DTC and every problem that could occur in
every vehicle, the tips that are in Troubleshooter were developed and verified by a team of
master automotive technicians. Tips are based on the experience of these technicians using
original equipment manufacturer (OEM) service manuals and technical service bulletins,
aftermarket resources, and pattern failures that have been experienced and successfully
resolved in the field.
The following Troubleshooter applications are available:

US Domestic Driveability
Asian Import Driveability
US Domestic Transmission
Asian Import Transmission
Antilock Brake Systems (ABS), US Domestic and Asian Import

2.1 Fast Track Troubleshooter Software

If coverage is available for the identified vehicle, the Troubleshooter selection appears on the
main menu (Figure 2-1).

Figure 2-1 Sample Main Menu

Fast Track Troubleshooter Software

Selecting Troubleshooter establishes a link to the vehicle communication software that allows
you to switch back and forth between the Troubleshooter application and the vehicle
communication software application without disconnecting or powering off.
Fast Track Troubleshooter displays live vehicle parameter readings during some tests and
procedures. These are the same data values that display in the Codes & Data or Sensor Test
mode in the vehicle communication software. Data readings change as vehicle operating
conditions change.
The steps in each Troubleshooter tip begin with the most likely cause of a problem, or with the
first test that should be performed. Steps then progress through other possible causes and
tests.

2.1.1 Troubleshooter Categories

A selection menu displays when you enter Troubleshooter. Selections vary based on the
identified vehicle and on the system being tested. Typical selections include:

Introduction; Read First

Code Tips
Symptom Tips
Tests and Procedures
Technical Assistance
Fast-Track Data Scan

Read First
The Read First selection contains basic system and component information, or general
details about how the Fast Track Troubleshooter information is organized.

Code Tips
These tips are based on the diagnostic trouble code (DTC), and contain specific repair
information. Code tips are organized either numerically or alphanumerically.
A Code Summary line on the top line of each tip menu lists any codes present in the vehicle
during testing. If no codes are present at the time of testing, the Code Summary line reads
no codes present. A list of DTC code tips available for the identified vehicle displays below
the summary line.

Symptom Tips
This selection provides repair tips for frequently occurring operating problems that cause
driveability complaints but do not generate codes. Symptom tips are arranged alphabetically.

Fast Track Troubleshooter Software

Tests and Procedures

This selection contains tests and procedures based on frequently suspected components or
symptoms that may or may not be accompanied by codes.
Scroll through the entire tip list, as a Test and Procedure may include more than one tip.
Follow on-screen instructions to perform the test or view data.

Technical Assistance
The Technical Assistance selection provides a variety of helpful and technical data. Topics
may include information from factory service bulletins, procedures for reading and clearing
codes, adaptive relearn strategies, system operating information, OBD-II drive cycle
requirements, and other useful material.

Fast-Track Data Scan

The Fast-Track Data Scan selection contains information and guidelines on how to quickly
validate data stream readings for important sensors and actuators. Normal data values are
provided for comparison. Information is included to allow you to see at a glance whether the
data stream values are reliable. Tips are vehicle-specific and are listed alphabetically by
component. Operating ranges for specific components may also be included.

Additional Troubleshooter Categories

A number of other module specific selections may be available on the menu:

ABS
Warning Lights and Initial Check tips explain how the malfunction indicator lamp
(MIL) circuits function and how to diagnose ABS problems based on MIL conditions.

ABS Brake ServiceCaution Areas tips alert you to sensitive areas that should be
avoided, or that you should be aware of during routine brake services.

Training tips provide system design and theory of operation information, and explain
the cause of pattern failures for ABS and traction control systems.

Transmission
Service Advice and Specifications contains general testing and servicing
guidelines, information, and specifications.

Overhaul Tips provides detailed procedures for disassembling and assembling

transmission components and subassemblies for some transmissions.

2.1.2 Additional Troubleshooter Features

In addition to the extensive experienced based information it offers, the Fast Track
Troubleshooter application also provides the additional time-saving features described below.

Fast Track Troubleshooter References

Tips with Functional Tests

Some Troubleshooter tips direct you to perform a functional test to check components.
Although the test is typically performed in the vehicle communication application, in most
cases when the test is available, you are able to perform the procedures from within the
Troubleshooter application. In a few cases, you may be directed to exit Troubleshooter and
return to the VCS menus to perform the test. If so, follow the screen prompts.

Automatic Tip Finder

Many Fast Track Troubleshooter tips direct you to a related tip for additional information that
may be used to solve a particular repair problem. The Troubleshooter software includes an
automatic tip finder that lets you jump quickly from one tip to a related tip, or from the tip to a
test, without having to return to the previous menu, or without having to navigate to and select
another item.

2.2 Fast Track Troubleshooter References

The Fast Track Troubleshooter references contain additional diagnostic information that
supports the tips in the Troubleshooter software. The references are the second part of the
Troubleshooter system and must be used in combination with the software. Tips in the
software are linked to specific references.

Figure 2-2 Sample reference message

Like the information in the software, the references are compiled from the experience of
master technicians, information in service manuals, technical service bulletins, and various
independent sources of service data. References may include special instructions, detailed
test and repair procedures, service specifications, circuit and wiring diagrams, and other
pertinent information.
A Fast Track Troubleshooter References digital video disc (DVD) is supplied with your
Troubleshooter kit. Before using Troubleshooter for the first time, follow the steps in Installing
the Fast-Track Troubleshooter References DVD on page AA15 to install the DVD
information onto your personal computer. That way the information is readily available when
you need it.

Chapter 3

Getting Started

This chapter explains how to begin using the Fast Track Troubleshooter system. It contains
the following sections:

Installing the Fast Track Troubleshooter References DVD

Accessing Fast Track Troubleshooter
Making Selections
Exiting Troubleshooter

3.1 Installing the Fast Track Troubleshooter References DVD

Before you begin using the Fast Track Troubleshooter software, install the references digital
video disc (DVD) on your personal computer (PC).

3.1.1 Minimum System Requirements

Pentium 100 CPU

1GB of hard drive available
23 MB of RAM
DVD-ROM drive
Windows 2000, XP, or Vista
SVGA monitor running 800 x 600 resolution
Mouse and keyboard

3.1.2 Fast Track Troubleshooter References DVD Installation

The new Fast Track Troubleshooter References DVD contains all of the information that was
previously supplied on five CDs.

i
z

NOTE:
The new DVD version of the references contains all of the information included on the
previous versions. Once the DVD in this packet has been installed, do not attempt to install
any old (CD) versions of the Fast Track Troubleshooter Reference Manual Viewer.

To install the new Fast Track Troubleshooter References DVD:

1. Insert the DVD into the DVD-ROM drive of your computer.
2. The DVD should autorun. If not, from the desktop, select Start > Run.

Accessing Fast Track Troubleshooter

Previous versions of the reference manuals must be uninstalled from your PC before the
new version can be installed. The installation software should perform this task
automatically.
3. Click Yes to uninstall previous versions if prompted to do so, then click OK to confirm.
4. When the Install Wizard displays, follow the on-screen instructions. Click Next as needed
to proceed.
When prompted, allow the programs to install into the default directory.
5. Click Install.
6. Click Finish once the installation is complete.
7. Store the new Fast Track Troubleshooter References DVD in a safe location. All
previous versions of the Reference Manual CDs can be discarded.

3.2 Accessing Fast Track Troubleshooter

Before selecting Troubleshooter for the first time on any vehicle, it is advisable to first check
Codes & Data or perform system tests to see if codes are present and to look for obvious
system abnormalities.
The vehicle communication and Troubleshooter software work interactively. You can switch
back and forth between Troubleshooter and the vehicle communication software to perform
any available diagnostic reading or test function.

To access the Troubleshooter software:

1. Enter the identification (ID) of the test vehicle in the usual manner.
2. If prompted, select a system for testing, then select Troubleshooter from the list of options.
The Troubleshooter selection does not appear on the menu when the software does not
contain information for the vehicle you have identified.

Figure 3-1 Sample Main Menu

Menu selections vary slightly by manufacturer and system availability.

3.3 Making Selections

Each tip listed on the menu contains one or more steps. Steps may include instructions to read
one or more parameters, take voltage measurements, inspect and test various components,
replace components, or make certain repairs. Steps within a tip are presented in the order in
which the components should be checked or the tests should be performed.

Exiting Troubleshooter

To make a selection:
1. From the main menu, select Troubleshooter:
For Driveability Troubleshooters, the category selection screen displays.
For ABS and Transmission Troubleshooters, the system identification screen displays.
System identification selections offer assistance in identifying the ABS or transmission on
the test vehicle, to access the category selection menu:
a. Scroll to the system.
b. Select to open the menu.
2. Select a category.
A menu of tips available for the vehicle displays. All of the tips and information available
for the test vehicle (in the selected category) are listed. The list is not limited by codes that
may or may not be present.
3. Select a tip that most closely matches the problem with the vehicle.
4. Exit the tip to return to the tip menu.
5. Select another tip from the menu.

NOTE:
If you select the same tip again, you return to the same point in the same step from which you
exited.

3.4 Exiting Troubleshooter

z

To exit Troubleshooter:
1. Press N to exit any Troubleshooter tip and return to the selection menu.
2. Press N again to exit the selection menu and return to the VCS main menu.

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Chapter 4

Diagnostic Practices

This chapter contains basic information for developing an organized approach to diagnosis.

4.1 Trouble Code Diagnosis

Manufacturers advise that trouble codes be diagnosed and serviced in a specific order: first,
diagnose hard codes for currently present problems; then diagnose soft, or memory, codes (if
the vehicle transmits them) for intermittent problems.
Different vehicles record and transmit hard or soft codes in different ways. Vehicle
communication software manuals contain information on reading and interpreting codes from
vehicles that are covered by Fast-Track Troubleshooter. Information is also included in the
Training & Technical Assistance selection on the Troubleshooter main menu.

4.1.1 OBD-II Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)

OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) display in a 5-character alphanumeric format. The
first character of the DTC, a letter, defines the system where a code was set. Four letters are
currently used: P for powertrain, B for body, C for chassis, and U for network
communication.
The second character of the DTC is a number (0, 1, 2, or 3). If the second character is 0, it is
an SAE defined (generic) code, and 1 indicates a manufacturer-defined (enhanced) code.
The meaning of a 2 or 3 varies according to the system character (P, B, C, or U).
The third DTC character indicates the system where the fault occurred:
Third DTC
Character
1
2

Indicated System
Fuel or air metering system

Ignition malfunction or engine misfire

Auxiliary emission control system

Vehicle or idle speed control system

Computer or output circuit fault

7
8

Transmission control system

The final characters in the DTC indicate the conditions that triggered the code. Different
sensors, actuators and circuits are assigned blocks of numbers; and the lowest number in the
block is used to indicate a general malfunction. Higher numbers in the blockalso called

11

Technical Service Bulletins

enhanced codesprovide more specific information, such as low or high voltage, a slow
response time, or an out-of-range signal.

4.2 Technical Service Bulletins

Many of the Fast Track Troubleshooter references list one or more technical service bulletins
(TSB) from the vehicle manufacturer as a contributing source of information. Copies of
original vehicle TSBs can be obtained from the following sources:

Dealership service departments

Distribution services for factory service manuals
Independent aftermarket service manual publishers
Computer-based service information systems
Telephone hotline information services

4.3 Vehicle Modifications

Some Troubleshooter tips may refer to manufacturer technical service bulletins (TSB) that call
for one or more of the following:

Modifying the idle speed, base ignition timing, or spark plug gap
Installing a new electronic control module (ECM)
Installing different emissions related parts
Re-routing vacuum lines
Altering the original calibration of the emission controls

Ford, Chrysler and some import manufacturers provide dealership technicians with
authorized modifications labels as shown in Figure 4-1 and Figure 4-2.

Figure 4-1 Sample Chrysler modifications label

12

Vehicle Modifications

Figure 4-2 Sample Ford modifications label

Add a short description of the change, the related TSB number, the dealer code, and the date
in the section provided on the label.
Labels can often be obtained from Ford or Chrysler parts departments. Other manufacturers
do not use an authorized modifications label. However, some service kits may include a label
that describes calibration changes.
IMPORTANT:
Whenever a vehicle is modified by an approved calibration change, it is good practice to
obtain or make a label that describes the change. Place the label in a highly-visible location,
such as on the bulkhead, radiator shroud, or near the original VECI label on the engine. Cover
the label with transparent tape for protection.

13