Introduction to the Haynes PFCR (Professional Fault Code Reader)

Overview

The Haynes PFCR (Professional Fault Code Reader) was a consumer fault code reader for early onboard diagnostic featured cars, prior to the introduction of OBD2. Introduced in the late 1990s, a starter kit cost just over £400.

This device consists of a handheld unit with buttons and a screen. In the back of the unit is a cartridge slot into which are inserted "pods" which contain the software to read the codes of various makes and models of car. There is also an 8-pin mini-DIN socket on the top of the unit into which plugs the desired cable for the model car under test.

Power is provided by the diagnostic port itself or battery crocodile cables (connected to the specific cable via banana plugs), depending on the model under test.

Haynes Pods

Each manufacturer had a pod that would be purchased separately (along with the correct cables and manual pages) which would fit into the PFCR to allow it to read codes for that particular manufacturer's vehicles. Along with manufacturer specific pods, there were available "Mega Pods" with multiple manufacturer's software on them. Without a pod, the device will not switch on.

Using the PFCR

These instructions are general and will likely vary for the specific car under test. Generally, it is safe to follow the guidance given by the device and manual (if available).

1. Insert the correct Pod into the back of the PFCR.
2. Ensure the ignition is off.
3. Connect the test cable to the PFCR and to the DLC connector, remembering to connect the battery leads if necessary. Once power is received by the PFCR, it will power on.
4. Using the up (⬆️) and down (⬇️) arrows navigate through the Pod and software version information.
5. If using a pod with more than one manufacturer, scroll through the manufacturer list to the desired manufacturer. Press the tick mark (✔️) once the desired manufacturer is selected.
6. Select the engine management type or system type and press the tick mark (✔️). You may also be asked to select the type of cable connected. Do so and press tick (✔️).
7. The PFCR now displays "Turn Ignition On". Turn the ignition on but do not start the engine. If the car under test has a keypad or other non-key based immobiliser, this must be disabled before any codes can be read. Once this is done, press the tick mark (✔️).
8. Select the function required and press the tick mark (✔️).

Commonly Available Functions:

1. Read faults: Wait for the PFCR to read the faults. If the car is a flash code only car, there will be quite a wait, especially if there are many codes. The PFCR will display "Searching..." and tick as it does so. It will then show "Reading faults" and continue to tick. The PFCR will then display "X Faults Found", press the tick mark (✔️). If there are faults, then select "1. View Faults" and press the tick mark (✔️). If there are no faults, press the (❌) and then confirm the "Are you sure" by pressing the tick mark (✔️). Turn off the ignition and disconnect the PFCR or continue to other functions if desired. If there are faults, pressing (❌) will allow you to return to the function menu or delete the codes.
2. ECU type: The display will show the type and details of the computer. Press (❌) to go back to the function menu.
3. Reading live data: Using the up (⬆️) and down (⬇️) arrows navigate through the various parameters and available components. Press (❌) to return to the function menu.
4. Testing actuators: Using the up (⬆️) and down (⬇️) arrows navigate through the various actuators. Press the tick mark (✔️) to select the desired actuator test. Press any key to abort the test. The test will run for several seconds and the actuator can be heard operating if you get close enough. Press (❌) to return to the function menu.
5. Printing (if a printer is connected): Live data parameters will be sent to the printer. Press (❌) to return to the function menu.

To exit the system, press (❌) and then confirm by pressing the tick mark (✔️). Turn off the ignition and disconnect the PFCR.

Online Manual

A full manual for the PFCR is available for download here: Haynes. Including vehicle specific information. Bear in mind, this may have subtle differences depending on the age of your own unit and pods available.

Haynes PFCR Harness Diagrams, Cable Layouts and Test Sockets

This section shows the connectors and (measured) wiring diagrams for Haynes PFCR cables, found using a simple multimeter test between pins.

PFCR Unit Connector: The PFCR end of the cable is a standard 8-pin mini-DIN plug.

Peugeot/Citroën (PSA) 2-pin connector: Diagrams show the car end of the cable and the wiring diagram.

Rover 3-pin connector: Diagrams show the car end of the cable and the wiring diagram.

Ford 3 and 5-pin connectors: Diagrams show the car end of the cable and the wiring diagram.

Vauxhall/Opel 10-pin connector: Diagrams show the car end of the cable and the wiring diagram.

A wiring diagram for the PFCR cable shows connections between the PFCR end and the car end, indicating pin assignments for power, ground, and data signals.

Inside the Haynes PFCR and Pods

The Haynes PFCR unit appears to serve mainly to interpret the code in the pods and signals from the car, as well as allow the user to choose options, run tests, display results, and read fault codes. A Hitachi HD64F3334 microcontroller is the brains of the unit.

The PFCR unit has internal circuitry including a microcontroller, memory chips, and display drivers. Various versions (issue 2 to 4) of the PFCR unit are shown.

There are two types of pod hardware:

• Simple version: Used with Citroën/Peugeot, Vauxhall, Rover, and Ford pods. Contains one memory chip and three logic chips.
• More complicated version: Seems limited to Megapod use. Contains locations for more than one chip holder. Includes CMOS chips for logic purposes.

The chips used for storage appear to be AMD AM29F040, with 4 Mbits of storage. The pods contain all the operating software, with the device itself used for processing, user input, and displaying information. This design allows the device to be future-proofed via the pod system.

Haynes Brochure Information

The document includes scans of a Haynes brochure detailing the product. Main features include:

• Moulded in ABS plastic for workshop durability.
• Simple four-key operation.
• Two-line, 16-character scrolling LCD display with fault code number and text description. Audible signal for feedback.
• Flashing cursor indicates active keys.
• Slide-in software pods for manufacturer-specific applications (Citroën, Ford, Peugeot, Rover, Saab, Vauxhall/Opel, Volvo). New applications for 1998 included VAG, Renault, and BMW.
• Reads, displays, and clears codes stored within the ECM.
• Capable of handling Wiggle Tests, Cylinder Balance, Actuator Tests, Continuous Codes, and Keep Alive Memory (KAM) where the vehicle system allows.
• The PFCR plugs directly into the car's diagnostics socket and draws power from the car battery.
• Ergonomic design for one-handed operation.
• An extension lead allows tests to be carried out from the driver's seat.

Starter Kit Contents

A Starter Kit is available comprising:

• The Haynes Professional Fault Code Reader.
• Pods for Ford, Vauxhall/Opel, Peugeot, Citroën and Rover.
• Harnesses for each of these applications.
• Positive and negative battery leads.
• Extension lead.
• Comprehensive instruction manual.
• Durable storage case.

After-sales support is available via Telephone Helpline, User Training, and Technical Bulletins.

The Instruction Manual contains:

• A basic summary of engine management systems and fault codes.
• Detailed PFCR operating instructions.
• Information on each of the systems covered.
• Location of diagnostics socket.
• Comprehensive fault code tables.
• General test procedures.

Haynes Diagnostics: Straightforward Solutions

Haynes, as a leading provider of automotive information, offers straightforward solutions to car servicing problems. The comprehensive instruction manual guides users through diagnostic routines.

The process involves:

1. Identifying the correct vehicle from the Application List.
2. Referring to the relevant System Information page for system description and diagnostic connector location.
3. Connecting the PFCR as shown and running tests following on-screen instructions.
4. Viewing the fault code number and description displayed on the screen and in the manual. The manual also provides ECM pin numbers and cross-references to general test procedures.
5. Referring to general test procedures to identify the next step in the diagnostic process.

Technical Specifications

Weight: 400g (with POD)

Dimensions: L: 215mm, W: 100mm (Max), D: 50mm (Max)

Power Supply: nominal 12V dc

Power consumption: 5mA quiescent

Conforming to: BS EN 50081-1, BS EN 50082-1

Manufacturer: Haynes Publishing, Sparkford, Nr Yeovil, Somerset BA22 7JJ. Telephone: 01963 440635. Fax: 01963 440001. E-mail: sales@haynes-manuals.co.uk