ANCEL AD310 User's Manual

1. Safety Precautions and Warnings

To prevent personal injury or damage to vehicles and/or the scan tool, read this instruction manual first and observe the following safety precautions at a minimum whenever working on a vehicle:

• Always perform automotive testing in a safe environment.
• Do not attempt to operate or observe the tool while driving a vehicle. Operating or observing the tool will cause driver distraction and could cause a fatal accident.
• Wear safety eye protection that meets ANSI standards.
• Keep clothing, hair, hands, tools, test equipment, etc. away from all moving or hot engine parts.
• Operate the vehicle in a well ventilated work area: Exhaust gases are Poisonous.
• Put blocks in front of the drive wheels and never leave the vehicle unattended while running tests.
• Use extreme caution when working around the ignition coil, distributor cap, ignition wires and spark plugs. These components create hazardous voltages when the engine is running.
• Put the transmission in PARK (for automatic transmission) or NEUTRAL (for manual transmission) and make sure the parking brake is engaged.
• Keep a fire extinguisher suitable for gasoline/chemical/electrical fires nearby.
• Keep the scan tool dry, clean, free from oil/water or grease. Use a mild detergent on a clean cloth to clean the outside of the scan tool, when Necessary.

2. General Information

2.1 On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) II

The first generation of On-Board Diagnostics (called OBD I) was developed by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) 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 OBD II 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 OBD II system turns on a warning lamp (MIL) on the vehicle instrument panel to alert the driver typically by the phrase "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)

OBD II 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. OBD II Diagnostic Trouble Codes consist 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 be set. Below is an example to illustrate the structure of the digits:

DTC Example: P0520

Systems:

• B = Body
• C = Chassis
• P = Powertrain
• U = Network

Sub-systems:

• 1 = Fuel and air metering
• 2 = Ignition system or engine misfire
• 3 = Auxiliary emissions controls
• 4 = Vehicle speed control and idle controls
• 5 = Computer output circuits
• 6 = Transmission controls

Code Type:

• Generic (SAE): P0, B0, C0, U0
• Manufacturer Specific: P1, P2, B1, B2, C1, C2, U1, U2

The last two digits identify individual components within the system.

Figure 1-2: Explanation of a diagnostic trouble code.

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 scan tools 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 the Data Link Connector is not located under the dashboard, a label should be there revealing its location. For some Asian and European vehicles, the DLC is located behind the ashtray and the ashtray must be removed to access the connector. If the DLC cannot be found, refer to the vehicle's service manual for the location.

Figure 1-3: The DLC connector (left) can be found in the area of the car interior seen at right (black arrow).

Illustration Description: A diagram showing the interior of a car dashboard with labels pointing to the location of the DLC connector: "LEFT CORNER OF DASH", "NEAR CENTER OF DASH", and "BEHIND ASHTRAY".

2.4 OBD II Readiness Monitors

Readiness Monitors are indicators used to find out if all of the emissions components have been evaluated by the OBD II system. They are running periodic tests on specific systems and components to ensure that they are performing within allowable limits.

Currently, there are eleven OBD II Readiness Monitors (or I/M Monitors) defined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). 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 OBD II 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 OBD II 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 operated under specific conditions before the monitor is ready. These monitors are termed non-continuous monitors and are listed below:

1. EGR System - exhaust Gas Recirculation for reducing greenhouse gases.
2. O2 Sensors - monitor and adjust air/fuel mixture.
3. Catalyst - reduces exhaust emissions.
4. Evaporative System - monitors the integrity of the fuel tank system.
5. O2 Sensor Heater - brings O2 sensor to correct operating temperature.
6. Secondary air - reduces exhaust emissions.
7. Heated Catalyst - brings catalyst to correct operating temperature.
8. A/C system - monitors system for freon leaks.

2.5 OBD II Monitor Readiness Status

OBD II systems must indicate whether or not the vehicle's PCM's monitoring has completed testing on each emission component. Components that have been OBD II tested will be reported as "OK". The purpose of recording readiness status is to allow inspectors to determine if the vehicle's OBDII system has tested all the emissions systems. This is handy to know before bringing vehicle to a state emissions testing facility.

The powertrain control module (PCM) sets a monitor to "OK" after an appropriate drive cycle has been performed. The drive cycle that enables a Monitor and sets readiness codes to "OK" varies for each individual monitor. Once a monitor is set as "OK", 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 "INC" (incomplete). Since the three continuous monitors are constantly evaluating, they will be reported as "OK" all of the time. As long as there are no DTCs stored in memory, the vehicle is running in accordance with the OBD II guidelines. If testing of a particular supportes non-continuous monitor has not been completed or not tested, the monitor status will be reported as "INC" (incomplete).

In order for the OBD 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 OBD monitor system ready, please consult your vehicle owner's manual.

2.6 OBD II Definitions

Powertrain Control Module (PCM) – the OBD II terminology for the on-board computer that controls the engine and the 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) these identify which section of the emission control system has malfunctioned.

Enabling Criteria – Also termed Enabling Conditions. They are the vehicle-specific events of conditions that must occur within the engine before the various monitors will set, or run. Some monitors 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.

OBD II 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 OBD II 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 OBD II 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 Date 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.

3. Using the Scan Tool

3.1 Tool Description - ANCEL AD310

Illustration Description: An image of the ANCEL AD310 scan tool with numbered callouts pointing to different parts.

• 1. LCD DISPLAY – Indicates test results. Backlit, 128 x 64 pixel display with contrast adjustment.
• 2. ENTER BUTTON – Confirms a selection (or action) from a menu.
• 3. EXIT BUTTON – Cancels a selection (or action) from a menu or returns to the menu.
• 4. UP SCROLL BUTTON – Moves up through menu and submenu items in menu mode. When more than one screen of data is retrieved, moves up through the current screen to the previous screens for additional data.
• 5. DOWN SCROLL BUTTON – Moves down through menu and submenu items in menu mode. When more than one screen of data is retrieved, moves down through the current screen to next screens for additional data.
• 6. OBD II CONNECTOR – Connects the scan tool to the vehicle's Data Link Connector (DLC).

3.2 Specifications

• Display: Backlit, 128 × 64 pixel display with contrast adjustment
• Operating Temperature: 0 to 60°C (32 to 140°F)
• Storage Temperature: -20 to 70°C (-4 to 158°F)
• External Power: 8.0 to 18.0 V power provided via vehicle battery
• Dimensions: Length: 125 mm (5.00"), Width: 70 mm (2.80"), Height: 22 mm (0.90")
• Weight: NW: 0.23kg (0.51lb), GW: 0.32kg (0.74lb)

3.3 Included

1. AD310 Scan Tool main unit
2. User's Manual

3.4 DTC Lookup

The DTC Lookup function allows you to search for definitions of codes stored in the built-in code library.

1. From the main menu, use the UP/DOWN keys to select Code Lookup and press ENTER.

Illustration Description: Two screenshots are shown. The first is the "Main Menu" with "DTC Lookup" highlighted. The second is the "DTC Lookup" screen displaying "P0001" with instructions for navigation.

To query the error code, press enter + up, cursor to the left; press enter + down, the cursor to the right.

For manufacturer specific codes, you must select a vehicle make in an additional screen to search for DTC definitions.

If no definition is found (SAE or manufacturer specific), the scan tool will display "DTC definition not found!". Please refer to the vehicle's service manual".

2) Press the EXIT key and return to the main menu.

3.5 Language

1. From the Main Menu, use the UP/DOWN scroll button to select the Language and press the ENTER button.

Illustration Description: A screenshot of the "Main Menu" with "Language" highlighted.

3.6 Contrast

1. From the Main Menu, use the UP/DOWN scroll button to select Contrast, and press ENTER.

Illustration Description: A screenshot of the "Main Menu" with "Contrast" highlighted.

2) From the Contrast menu, use the UP/DOWN scroll button to increase or decrease contrast.

Illustration Description: A screenshot of the "Contrast" menu showing "(40%)" and instructions to use the scroll buttons to change the contrast.

3) Press ENTER to save your settings and return to the previous menu.

3.7 Unit of Measure

1. From the Main Menu, use the UP/DOWN scroll button to select Unit of Measure, and press ENTER.

Illustration Description: A screenshot of the "Main Menu" with "Unit of Measure" highlighted.

2) From the Unit of Measure menu, use the UP/DOWN scroll button to select the desired Unit of Measure.

Illustration Description: A screenshot of the "Unit Of Measure" menu showing "English" and "Metric" options, with "English" selected.

3) Press the ENTER button to save your selection and return to the previous menu.

4. OBD II Diagnostics

CAUTION: Don't connect or disconnect any test equipment with ignition on or engine running.

1. Turn the ignition off.
2. Locate the vehicle's 16-pin Data Link Connector (DLC).
3. Plug the scan tool cable connector into the vehicle's DLC.
4. Turn the ignition on.
5. Press ENTER to enter Main Menu. Use the UP/DOWN scroll button to select Diagnostics from the menu.

Illustration Description: Two screenshots are shown. The first is a prompt "Turn the ignition on Press any key to con. ANCEL AD310 Version V2.70". The second is the "Main Menu" with "Diagnostics" highlighted.

6) Press ENTER to confirm. A sequence of messages displaying the OBD II protocols will be observed on the display until the vehicle protocol is detected.

If the scan tool fails to communicate with the vehicle's ECU (Engine Control Unit), a "LINKING ERROR!" message shows up on the display.

• Verify that the ignition is ON;
• Check if the scan tool's OBD II connector is securely connected to the vehicle's DLC;
• Verify that the vehicle is OBD II compliant;
• Turn the ignition 'off' and wait for about 10 seconds. Turn the ignition back to 'on' and repeat the procedure from step 5.

4.1 Read Codes

• Stored codes are also known as "hard codes" or "permanent codes". These codes cause the control module to illuminate the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) when an emission-related fault occurs.
• Pending Codes are also referred to as "maturing codes" or "continuous monitor codes". They indicate problems that the control module has detected during the current or last driving cycle, but are not considered serious, yet. Pending Codes will not turn on the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL). If the problem is corrected, the codes will be cleared from memory after a certain number of drive cycles.

1) Use the UP/DOWN scroll button to select Read Codes from the Diagnostic Menu and press ENTER.

Illustration Description: A screenshot of the "Diagnostic Menu" with "Read Codes" highlighted.

2) Use the UP/DOWN scroll button to select Stored Codes or Pending Codes from the Trouble Codes menu and press ENTER.

Illustration Description: A screenshot of the "Trouble Codes" menu with "Stored Codes" and "Pending Codes" options.

• If there are no Diagnostic Trouble Codes present, the display indicates "No (pending) codes are stored in the module!" Wait a few seconds or press any key to return to the Diagnostic Menu.

3) View DTCs and their definitions on screen.

Illustration Description: A screenshot displaying a DTC: "P0401 #11 2/9 Generic Exhaust Gas Recirculation Flow Insufficient Detected".

• The control module number, sequence of the DTCs, total number of codes detected and type of codes (Generic of Manufacturer specific) will be observed on the upper right hand corner of the display.

4) If more than one DTC is found, use the UP/DOWN scroll button, as necessary, until all the codes have been viewed.

• If retrieved DTCs contain any manufacturer specific or enhanced codes, a "Manufacturer specific codes are found! Press any key to select vehicle make!" message comes up prompting you to select vehicle manufacturer to view DTC definitions. Use the UP/DOWN scroll button to select manufacturer and then press ENTER to confirm.

Illustration Description: A screenshot of the "Select Manufacturer" menu listing several car brands: "FIAT", "Ford", "GM", "Honda", "Hyundai", "Isuzu".

• If the manufacturer for your vehicle is not listed, use the UP/DOWN scroll button to select "Other" and press ENTER.

4.2 Erase Codes

Notes:

• This function is performed with key on engine off. Do not start the engine.
• Before performing this function, make sure to retrieve and record the trouble codes.
• After clearing, you should retrieve trouble codes once more or turn ignition on and retrieve codes again. If there is still some trouble codes for hard troubles, please find the reason caused the trouble code firstly, and then solve the problem. Now, the trouble codes can be erased.

1) Use the UP/DOWN scroll buttons to select Erase Codes from the Diagnostic Menu and press ENTER.

Illustration Description: A screenshot of the "Diagnostic Menu" with "Erase Codes" highlighted.

2) A warning message comes up asking for your confirmation.

Illustration Description: A screenshot of the "Erase codes" menu asking "Erase trouble codes! Are you sure?" with "YES" and "NO" options.

3) Press ENTER to confirm.

• If the codes are cleared successfully, an "Erase Done!" confirmation message is displayed.

Illustration Description: A screenshot of the "Erase codes" menu displaying "Erase Done! Press any key to con.".

• If the codes are not cleared, then an "Erase Failure. Turn Key on with Engine off!" message is displayed.

Illustration Description: A screenshot of the "Erase codes" menu displaying "Erase Failure. Turn Key on With Engine off! Press any key to con.".

4.3 Live Data

The OBD II Scan Tool is a special diagnostic tool that communicates with the vehicle's computer. The Scan Tool lets you view "real-time" Live Data. This information includes values (volts, rpm, temperature, speed etc.) and system status information (open loop, closed loop, fuel system status, etc.) generated by the various vehicle sensors, switches and actuators.

Select [View All Items] and press the ENTER key. The screen displays the interface shown below:

Illustration Description: Two screenshots are shown. The first is the "Diagnostic Menu" with "Live Data" highlighted. The second is the "Live Data" menu with "View All Items" highlighted.

1) To view live PIDs on the screen. Use the UP/DOWN scroll button for more PIDs if an up or down arrow appears on the screen.

Illustration Description: A screenshot of "Live Data" displaying various parameters like DTC_CNT, FUELSYS1, LOAD_PCT(%), ETC(°F), SHRTFT1(%), RPM(/min) with their values.

If you want to change the unit of measure, Press ENTER to change.

Illustration Description: A screenshot of "Live Data" displaying the same parameters as above, but with ETC in Celsius (°C).

2) Press EXIT to return to Diagnostic Menu.

Select [View Graphic Items] from the Live Data menu and press ENTER. The screen displays the interface shown below:

Illustration Description: Two screenshots are shown. The first is the "Live Data" menu with "View Graphic Items" highlighted. The second is the "View Graphic Items" menu listing parameters like LOAD_PCT(%), ECT(C), SHRTFT1(%), LONGFT1(%), MAP(KPa), RPM(/min).

Illustration Description: Two screenshots are shown. The first is a "Calculating scale" progress indicator. The second is a graph showing "ECT(C)" values over time.

4.4 View Freeze Frame

When an emission-related fault occurs, certain vehicle conditions are recorded by the on-board computer. This information is referred to as freeze frame data. View Freeze Data is a snapshot of the operating conditions at the time of an emission-related fault.

• If DTCs were erased, View Freeze Data may not be stored in vehicle memory depending on vehicle.

Select [View Freeze Frame], the screen will display the interface as shown below:

Illustration Description: Two screenshots are shown. The first is the "Diagnostic Menu" with "View Freeze Frame" highlighted. The second is the "View Freeze Frame" screen displaying "DTCFRZF P2122" and various vehicle parameters.

Use the UP/DOWN scroll button for more PIDs if an up or down arrow appears on the screen. Press EXIT to return to Diagnostic Menu.

4.5 I/M Readiness

I/M refers to Inspection and Maintenance, that is legislated by the Government to meet federal clean-air standards. I/M Readiness indicates whether or not the various emissions-related systems on the vehicle are operating properly and are ready for Inspection and Maintenance testing.

The purpose of the I/M Readiness Monitor Status is to indicate which of the vehicle's Monitors have run and completed their diagnosis and testing (as described in 2.5), and which ones have not yet run and completed testing and diagnosis of their designated sections of the vehicle's emissions system.

The I/M Readiness Monitor Status function also can be used (after repair of a fault has been performed) to confirm that the repair has been performed correctly, and/or to check for Monitor Run Status.

Select [I/M Readiness Test] and Press [ENTER], the screen will display the interface as shown below:

Illustration Description: Two screenshots are shown. The first is the "Diagnostic Menu" with "I/M Readiness" highlighted. The second is the "Since DTCS Cleared" screen displaying "MIL Status ON", "Misfire Monitor N/A", and "Fuel System Mon N/A".

Press EXIT return to the Diagnostic Menu.

4.6 Vehicle Info.

Select [Vehicle Info.] and press [ENTER], the screen will display the formation such as VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), CID (Calibration ID) and CVN (Calibration verify number).

1) Use UP/DOWN scroll button to select Vehicle Info. from the Diagnostic Menu and press ENTER.

Illustration Description: A screenshot of the "Diagnostic Menu" with "Vehicle Info." highlighted.

2) An advisory message comes up to remind you. Wait a few seconds or press any key to continue.

Illustration Description: A screenshot of the "Vehicle Info." menu displaying "Turn key on, with Engine off! Press any key to con.".

3) Wait a few seconds while the scan tool reads vehicle information.

Illustration Description: A screenshot of the "Vehicle Info." menu displaying "Vehicle ID Number", "Calibration ID", "Cal. Verif. Number", and "Protocol".

4) Press EXIT button to return Diagnostic Menu.

4.7 Evap Leak Test

The OBD2 system monitors the fuel system for fuel vapor leakage to ensure that no hydrocarbons (HC) leak into the atmosphere. EVAP monitor does two things:

1. Ensure that the gasoline vapor is sent to the intake pipe at the right time, and mixed with the air to enter the engine for combustion.
2. Prevent fuel vapor in the fuel pipe from leaking into the atmosphere and polluting the environment.

If the car supports this function, it will display as below:

Illustration Description: Two screenshots are shown. The first is the "Diagnostic Menu" with "Evap Leak Test" highlighted. The second is the "Evap Leak Test" screen displaying "OK Press any key to con.".

If the car not supported the function, it will display as below:

Illustration Description: A screenshot of the "Evap Leak Test" menu displaying "The selected mode is not supported! Press any key to con.".

5. Warranty and Service

5.1 Limited One Year Warranty

THIS WARRANTY IS EXPRESSLY LIMITED TO PERSONS WHO PURCHASE ANCEL AD310 PRODUCTS FOR PURPOSES OF RESALE OR USE IN THE ORDINARY COURSE OF THE BUYER'S BUSINESS.

ANCEL AD310 code reader product is warranted against defects in materials and workmanship for one year (12 months) from date of delivery to the user.

This warranty does not cover any part that has been abused, altered, used for a purpose other than for which it was intended, or used in a manner inconsistent with instructions regarding use. The exclusive remedy for any automotive meter found to be defective is repair or replacement, and ANCEL AD310 shall not be liable for any consequential or incidental damages.

5.2 Service Procedures

If you have any questions, please contact your local store, distributor or visit our website at www.anceltech.com.

If it becomes necessary to return the scan tool for repair, contact your local distributor for more information.

Contact Us

• Through Buyer-Seller Messaging to resolve your issues.
• Email us at: support@anceltech.com
• Scan the QR code to follow ANCEL official Facebook to get instant online chat to solve after-sales problems, and extend the product warranty period for half a year.

Illustration Description: A QR code is displayed with the text "Scan to connect with us".

Company Information

OBDSPACE TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD

Address: D03, Block A, No. 973 Minzhi Ave, Longhua District, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China

Email: support@anceltech.com

Website: www.anceltech.com

MADE IN CHINA

Compliance Marks: CE, FC, UK CA, RoHS, WEEE symbol (crossed-out wheeled bin), and French recycling instructions.