Sealey VS8700 EOBD Code Reader Instructions
1. Safety Precautions and Warnings
WARNING! Ensure that Health and Safety, local authority and general Workshop practice regulations are strictly adhered to.
- ❌ DO NOT use the unit if it, or any attachment, is damaged.
- ✔️ If required, ensure that the vehicle to be worked on is adequately supported with axle stands or ramps and is chocked.
- ✔️ Put transmission in PARK (for automatic transmission) or NEUTRAL (for manual transmission) and make sure the parking brake is engaged.
- ✔️ Wear approved eye protection. A full range of personal safety equipment is available from your Sealey dealer.
- ✔️ Wear suitable clothing to avoid snagging. Do not wear jewellery and tie back long hair.
WARNING! 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.
- ❌ DO NOT connect or disconnect any test equipment with ignition on or engine running.
- ✔️ Keep a fire extinguisher suitable for gasoline/chemical/ electrical fires nearby.
- ✔️ Account for all tools and parts being used and do not leave them on or near the engine.
- ✔️ Keep code reader dry, clean and free from oil, water and grease. Use a mild detergent on a clean cloth to clean the outside of the tool.
- ✔️ Operate the vehicle in a well-ventilated work area; exhaust gases are poisonous.
IMPORTANT: Always refer to the vehicle manufacturer's service instructions to establish the current procedure and data. These instructions are provided as a guide only.
WARNING! The warnings, cautions and instructions discussed in this 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.
2. General Information
2.1 On-Board Diagnostics (OBD)
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 "OBDII". The European version of OBDII is commonly referred to as EOBD and has protocols developed for the European vehicle market. The OBDII 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 OBDII 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.
The system provides information on:
- Whether the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is commanded 'on' or 'off';
- Which, if any, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC's) are stored;
- Readiness Monitor status.
2.2 Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC's)
EOBD Diagnostic Trouble Codes are codes 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 a guide as to where a fault might be occurring within a vehicle. EOBD 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 set.
DTC Example Description: A diagram illustrates the structure of Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs). It shows a main code 'P0202' with arrows pointing to categories: 'Systems' (with examples like B=Body, P=Powertrain), 'Sub-systems' (numbered 1-8, e.g., 1=Fuel and Air Metering), and 'Code Type' (Generic and Manufacturer Specific examples). Another box indicates 'Identifying specific malfunctioning section of the systems'.
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 approximately 12 inches from the ENTER/EXIT 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 present indicating its location. For some Asian and European vehicles, the DLC is located behind the ashtray, which must be removed to access the connector. If the DLC cannot be found, refer to the vehicle's service manual for its location.
2.4 OBDII Readiness Monitors
Readiness Monitors are a crucial part of a vehicle's OBDII system, indicating if all emissions components have been evaluated by the OBDII system. They run periodic tests on specific systems and components to ensure they perform within allowable limits. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines eleven OBDII Readiness Monitors (or I/M Monitors). Not all monitors are supported by all vehicles, and the exact number depends on the manufacturer's emissions control strategy.
Continuous Monitors: Some vehicle components or systems are continuously tested by the EOBD system. The continuously monitored components listed below are always ready:
- Misfire
- Fuel System
- Comprehensive Components (CCM)
Once the vehicle is running, the OBDII system continuously checks these components, monitors key engine sensors, watches for engine misfire, and monitors fuel demands.
Non-Continuous Monitors: Many emissions and engine system components require specific vehicle operating conditions before the monitor is ready. These are termed non-continuous monitors and include:
- EGR System
- O2 Sensors
- Catalyst
- Evaporative System
- O2 Sensor Heater
- Secondary air
- Heated Catalyst
- A/C system
Visual Description: An illustration shows a steering wheel with an arrow pointing to the location of the Data Link Connector (DLC) under the dashboard.
2.5 EOBD Monitor Readiness Status
EOBD systems indicate whether the vehicle's PCM's monitor system has completed testing on each component. Components tested are reported as "Ready" or "Complete". This status allows inspectors to determine if the vehicle's EOBD system has tested all components and/or systems.
The powertrain control module (PCM) sets a monitor to "Ready" or "Complete" after an appropriate drive cycle. The drive cycle varies per monitor. Once set, a monitor remains in this state. Factors like erasing DTCs or disconnecting the battery can reset Readiness Monitors to "Not Ready". Continuous monitors are always reported as "Ready". If a non-continuous monitor has not completed testing, its status will be "Not Complete" or "Not Ready".
To make the OBD monitor system ready, drive the vehicle under various normal operating conditions, including highway, city driving, and at least one overnight-off period. Consult your vehicle owner's manual for specific drive cycle information.
2.6 EOBD Definitions
Powertrain Control Module (PCM): EOBD terminology for the on-board computer controlling the engine and drive train.
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL): The "Check Engine" or "Service Engine Soon" light on the instrument panel. It alerts the driver or technician to a problem that may cause emissions to exceed federal standards. A steady light indicates a detected problem requiring service. A blinking or flashing light indicates a severe problem and discourages vehicle operation. The MIL cannot be turned off until repairs are completed or the condition no longer exists.
DTC: Diagnostic Trouble Codes that identify malfunctioning sections of the emission control system.
Enabling Criteria: Vehicle-specific events or conditions required for monitors to set or run. Some monitors require a prescribed "drive cycle" routine.
EOBD Drive Cycle: A specific mode of vehicle operation to set all applicable readiness monitors to the "ready" condition. It forces the vehicle to run its onboard diagnostics. A drive cycle is needed after DTCs are erased or the battery is disconnected to set readiness monitors for future fault detection.
Freeze Frame Data: When an emissions-related fault occurs, the EOBD system records a snapshot of vehicle operating parameters (e.g., engine RPM, speed, air flow, load, fuel pressure, coolant temperature) to help identify the problem.
3. Using the Code Reader
3.1 Tool Description
Visual Description: The Sealey VS8700 EOBD Code Reader is shown. It has a cable extending from the top and a display screen and buttons on the front.
- 1. EOBD CONNECTOR: Connects the code reader to the vehicle's Data Link Connector (DLC).
- 2. LCD DISPLAY: Indicates test results.
- 3. ENTER/EXIT BUTTON: Confirms a selection (or action) from a menu list, or returns to the previous menu.
- 4. SCROLL BUTTON: Scrolls through menu items. It is also used to enter the system setup menu when pressed.
3.2 Specifications
- Display: Backlit, 128 x 64 pixel display
- Operating Temperature: 0 to 60°C (32 to 140 F°)
- Storage Temperature: -20 to 70°C (-4 to 158 F°)
- Power: 8 to 18 Volts provided via vehicle battery
- Dimensions: Length 110.3 mm (4.34"), Width 69.5 mm (2.74"), Height 20.2 mm (0.80")
- Weight: 0.18Kg (0.39lb), Gross Weight: 0.21Kg (0.46lb)
3.3 Accessories Included
- User's Manual: Instructions on tool operations
- EOBD cable: Provides power to the tool and communicates between the tool and vehicle.
3.4 Navigation Characters
Characters used to help navigate the code reader:
- "▶️": Indicates current selection.
- "Pd": Identifies a pending DTC when viewing DTC's.
- "$": Identifies the control module number from which the data is retrieved.
3.5 Vehicle Power
The code reader is powered via the vehicle Data Link Connector (DLC). To turn on the code reader:
- Connect the EOBD cable to the code reader.
- Locate the DLC on the vehicle.
- Note: A plastic DLC cover may be present on some vehicles and needs to be removed before plugging in the EOBD cable.
- Plug the EOBD cable into the vehicle's DLC.
3.6 Product Setup
The code reader allows adjustments and settings for:
- Language: Selects the desired language.
- Unit of measure: Sets the unit of measure to English or Metric.
- Contrast adjustment: Adjusts the contrast of the LCD display.
Note: Settings remain until changed.
To enter the setup menu:
From the second startup screen, press the SCROLL button to enter the System Setup menu. Follow the on-screen instructions.
Visual Description: A screen displays "System Setup" with options: 1) Language, 2) Unit of Measure, 3) Contrast, 4) Exit. A page indicator shows '1/4'.
Language Setup
English is the default language.
- From the System Setup menu, use the SCROLL button to select 'Language', and press the ENTER/EXIT button.
Visual Description: A screen displays "Language" with options: English, Français, Español. A page indicator shows '1/3'.
Use the SCROLL button to select the desired language and press the ENTER/EXIT button to save and return to the previous menu.
Unit of Measurement
Metric is the default measurement unit.
- From the System Setup menu, use the SCROLL button to select 'Unit of Measure' and press the ENTER/EXIT button.
Visual Description: A screen displays "System Setup" with options: 1) Language, 2) Unit of Measure, 3) Contrast, 4) Exit. A page indicator shows '2/4'.
From the Unit of Measure menu, use the SCROLL button to select the desired unit of measurement.
Visual Description: A screen displays "Unit of Measure" with options: English, Metric. A page indicator shows '2/2'.
Press the ENTER/EXIT button to save your selection and return to the previous menu.
Contrast Adjustment
- From the System Setup menu, use the SCROLL button to select 'Contrast', and press the ENTER/EXIT button.
Visual Description: A screen displays "System Setup" with options: 1) Language, 2) Unit of Measure, 3) Contrast, 4) Exit. A page indicator shows '3/4'.
From the Contrast menu, use the SCROLL button to adjust contrast.
Visual Description: A screen displays "Contrast" with a slider showing 'Contrast (35%)' and instructions 'Use [arrow symbol] to change'.
Press the ENTER/EXIT button to save your settings and return to the previous menu.
Exiting System Setup
- Use the SCROLL button to select 'Exit' and press the ENTER/EXIT button to return to the startup menu.
Visual Description: A screen displays "System Setup" with options: 1) Language, 2) Unit of Measure, 3) Contrast, 4) Exit. A page indicator shows '4/4'.
3.7 Vehicle Coverage
The VS8700 OBDII/EOBD Code Reader is designed to work with all EOBD compliant vehicles, including those equipped with the next-generation protocol – Control Area Network (CAN).
A small number of 1994 and 1995 model year petrol vehicles are OBD II/EOBD compliant. Government regulations mandate that all EOBD compliant vehicles must have a "common" sixteen-pin Data Link Connector (DLC).
For your vehicle to be EOBD compliant, it must have a 16-pin DLC (Data Link Connector) located under the dash.
4. EOBD Diagnostics
When more than one vehicle control module is detected, you will be prompted to select the module from which data may be retrieved. The most commonly selected modules are the Powertrain Control Module [PCM] and Transmission Control Module [TCM].
CAUTION: Don't connect or disconnect any test equipment with ignition on or engine running.
- Turn the ignition off.
- Locate the vehicle's 16-pin Data Link Connector (DLC).
- Plug the OBDII cable into the vehicle's DLC.
- Turn the ignition on. The engine can be off or running.
- Press the ENTER/EXIT button to enter the Diagnostic Menu. The display will show a sequence of messages as the EOBD protocols are detected.
If the code reader fails to communicate with the vehicle's ECU (Engine Control Unit): A "LINKING ERROR!" message will appear. Verify that the ignition is ON, the code reader's EOBD connector is securely connected to the vehicle's DLC, and that the vehicle is EOBD compliant. Turn the ignition off, wait about 10 seconds, turn it back on, and repeat from step 5. If the "LINKING ERROR" message persists, contact your local distributor or the manufacturer's customer service department for assistance.
After the system status is displayed (MIL status, DTC counts, Monitor status), wait a few seconds or press any key to bring up the Diagnostic Menu.
Visual Description: A "System Status" screen is displayed, showing: Codes Found: 1, Monitors N/A: 4, Monitors OK: 3, Monitors INC: 3.
4.1 Reading Codes
- Use the SCROLL button to select 'Read Codes' from the Diagnostic Menu and press the ENTER/EXIT button.
Visual Description: A "Diagnostic Menu" screen is displayed, showing: 1) Read Codes, 2) Erase Codes, 3) View Freeze Frame, 4) I/M Readiness. A page indicator shows '1/6'.
If more than one module is detected, you will be prompted to select a module before the test.
Visual Description: A "Control Module" screen is displayed, showing: Engine, Module $A4, Exit. A page indicator shows '1/3'.
Use the SCROLL button to select a module and press the ENTER/EXIT button.
View DTC's and their definitions on screen.
Visual Description: A screen displays DTC information: P0115, $11, Pd, 1/6, Generic, followed by "Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit". The control module number, sequence of DTCs, total codes, and type (Generic/Manufacturer Specific, Stored/Pending) are shown in the upper right corner.
If more than one DTC is found, use the SCROLL button as necessary until all codes are displayed.
If no codes are detected, a "No codes are stored in the module!" message appears. If DTCs contain manufacturer-specific or enhanced codes, the display indicates "Manufacturer control".
Visual Description: Another DTC example screen shows: P1324, $09, 4/6, Other, followed by "Manufacturer control".
Press the ENTER/EXIT button to return to the previous menu.
4.2 Erasing Codes
CAUTION: Erasing Diagnostic Trouble Codes may delete not only codes from the vehicle's on-board computer but also "Freeze Frame" data and manufacturer-enhanced data. Furthermore, the I/M Readiness Monitor Status for all vehicle monitors will be reset to "Not Ready" or "Not Complete". Do not erase codes before the system has been completely checked by a technician.
This function is performed with the key on, engine off (KOEO). Do not start the engine.
- To erase DTC's, use the SCROLL button to select 'Erase Codes' from the Diagnostic Menu and press the ENTER/EXIT button.
Visual Description: A "Diagnostic Menu" screen is displayed, showing: 1) Read Codes, 2) Erase Codes, 3) Freeze Frame, 4) I/M Readiness. A page indicator shows '2/6'.
A warning message appears asking for confirmation.
Visual Description: An "Erase Codes" screen prompts: "Erase trouble codes! Are you sure?" with YES and NO options.
To proceed with erasing codes, press the ENTER/EXIT button.
- If codes are cleared successfully, an "Erase Done!" message appears.
- If codes are not cleared, an "Erase Failure. Turn Key on with Engine off!" message displays.
Wait a few seconds or press any key to return to the Diagnostic Menu.
If you choose not to erase codes, use the SCROLL button to select 'NO' and press ENTER/EXIT. A "Command Canceled" message will appear. Press any key or wait a few seconds to return to the Diagnostic Menu.
4.3 Viewing Freeze Frame Data
- To view freeze frame data, use the SCROLL button to select 'View Freeze Frame' from the Diagnostic Menu and press the ENTER/EXIT button.
Visual Description: A "Diagnostic Menu" screen is displayed, showing: 1) Read Codes, 2) Erase Codes, 3) View Freeze Frame, 4) I/M Readiness. A page indicator shows '3/6'.
If more than one module is detected, you will be prompted to select a module before the test.
Visual Description: A "Control Module" screen is displayed, showing: Engine, Module $A4, Exit. A page indicator shows '1/3'.
Use the SCROLL button to select a module and press the ENTER/EXIT button.
Wait a few seconds while the code reader validates the PID MAP.
Visual Description: A "View Freeze Frame" screen displays "Reading PID... - Please Wait -".
If the retrieved information spans more than one screen, use the SCROLL button as necessary until all data is shown.
Visual Description: A "View Freeze Frame" screen shows data fields like DTCFRZF, FUELSYS1, FUELSYS2, LOAD_PCT (%). A page indicator shows '1/4'. The number 'x/x' indicates the total number of screens and the current screen sequence.
If no freeze frame data is available, a message "No Freeze Frame Data Stored!" will be displayed.
Press the ENTER/EXIT button to return to the Diagnostic Menu.
4.4 Retrieving I/M Readiness Status
The I/M Readiness function checks the operations of the Emission System on EOBD compliant vehicles. It is useful before a vehicle inspection for compliance with state emissions programs.
Some newer vehicle models may support two types of I/M Readiness tests:
- A. Since DTC's Cleared: Indicates the status of monitors since the DTC's were erased.
- B. This Drive Cycle: Indicates the status of monitors since the beginning of the current drive cycle.
An I/M Readiness Status result of "NO" does not necessarily mean the vehicle will fail the state I/M inspection. Some states allow one or more monitors to be "Not Ready" to pass the emissions inspection.
- "OK": Indicates a particular monitor has completed its diagnostic testing.
- "INC": Indicates a particular monitor has not completed its diagnostic testing.
- "N/A": The monitor is not supported on that vehicle.
- Use the SCROLL button to select 'I/M Readiness' from the Diagnostic Menu and press ENTER/EXIT.
Visual Description: A "Diagnostic Menu" screen is displayed, showing: 1) Read Codes, 2) Erase Codes, 3) View Freeze Frame, 4) I/M Readiness. A page indicator shows '4/6'.
If more than one module is detected, you will be prompted to select a module before the test.
Visual Description: A "Control Module" screen is displayed, showing: Engine, Module $A4, Exit. A page indicator shows '1/3'.
Use the SCROLL button to select a module and press the ENTER/EXIT button.
Wait a few seconds while the code reader validates the PID MAP.
Visual Description: An "I/M Readiness" screen displays "Reading PID... - Please Wait -".
If the vehicle supports both types of tests, both will be shown on the screen for selection.
Visual Description: An "I/M Readiness" screen displays options: Since DTCs Cleared, This Drive Cycle, Exit. A page indicator shows '1/3'.
Use the SCROLL button to view the status of the MIL light ("ON" or "OFF") and the following monitors:
- Misfire monitor -- Misfire monitor
- Fuel System Mon -- Fuel System Monitor
- Comp. Component -- Comprehensive Components Monitor
- EGR -- EGR System Monitor
- Oxygen Sens Mon -- O2 Sensors Monitor
- Catalyst Mon -- Catalyst Monitor
- EVAP System Mon -- Evaporative System Monitor
- Oxygen Sens htr -- O2 Sensor Heater Monitor
- Sec Air System -- Secondary Air Monitor
- Htd Catalyst -- Heated Catalyst Monitor
- A/C Refrig Mon -- A/C system Monitor
Visual Description: A "Since DTCs Cleared" screen shows: MIL Status: OFF, Misfire Monitor: OK, Fuel System Mon.: OK, Comp. Component: OK. A page indicator shows '1/3'.
If the vehicle supports the "This Drive Cycle" readiness test, a similar screen will be displayed.
Visual Description: A "This Drive Cycle" screen shows: MIL Status: ON, Misfire Monitor: OK, Fuel System Mon: OK, Comp. Component: OK. A page indicator shows '1/3'.
The number 'x/x' indicates the total number of screens the retrieved data covers and the sequence of the currently displayed data.
Press the ENTER/EXIT button to return to the previous menu.
4.5 Viewing Vehicle Information
The Vehicle Info. function retrieves the Vehicle Identification No. (VIN), Calibration ID(s), Calibration Verification Nos. (CVNs), and In-use Performance Tracking for vehicles from 2000 and newer that support Mode 9.
- Use the SCROLL button to select 'Vehicle Info.' from the Diagnostic Menu and press the ENTER/EXIT button.
Visual Description: A "Diagnostic Menu" screen is displayed, showing: 5) Vehicle Info., 6) Exit. A page indicator shows '5/6'.
Wait a few seconds or press the ENTER/EXIT button to continue.
Visual Description: A "Vehicle Info" screen prompts: "Turn key on with engine off! Press [ENTER] to con.".
If the vehicle does not support this mode, a "The selected mode is not supported!" message will be displayed. If more than one module is detected, you will be prompted to select a module before the test.
Visual Description: A "Control Module" screen is displayed, showing: Engine, Module $A4, Exit. A page indicator shows '1/3'.
Use the SCROLL button to select a module and press the ENTER/EXIT button.
Wait a few seconds while the code reader reads vehicle information.
Visual Description: A "Vehicle Info." screen displays "Reading Info... - Please Wait -".
From the Vehicle Info. menu, use the SCROLL button to select available items to view and press the ENTER/EXIT button.
Visual Description: A "Vehicle Info" screen lists: Vehicle ID Number, Calibration ID, Cal. Verif. Number, Exit. A page indicator shows '1/4'.
View retrieved vehicle information on the screen.
Visual Description: A "Vehicle ID Number" screen displays: VIN: 2HGES16684H907941.
Press the ENTER/EXIT button to return to the previous menu.
4.6 Exiting EOBD Test
- To exit the EOBD test, use the SCROLL button to select 'Exit' from the Diagnostic Menu and press the ENTER/EXIT button.
Visual Description: A "Diagnostic Menu" screen is displayed, showing: 5) Vehicle Info., 6) Exit. A page indicator shows '6/6'.
A warning message appears asking for confirmation.
Visual Description: An "Exit Test" screen prompts: "Exit OBDII Test! Are you sure?" with YES and NO options.
If you wish to exit the EOBD test, press the ENTER/EXIT button.
If you do not want to exit, use the SCROLL button to select 'NO' and press the ENTER/EXIT button to return.
5. Warranty and Service
5.1 Limited One Year Warranty
Sealey warrants to its customers that this product will be free from all defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one (1) year from the date of the original purchase, subject to the following terms and conditions:
- The sole responsibility of Sealey under the Warranty is limited to either the repair or, at the option of Sealey, replacement of the code reader at no charge with Proof of Purchase. The sales receipt may be used for this purpose.
- This warranty does not apply to damages caused by improper use, accident, flood, lightning, or if the product was altered or repaired by anyone other than the Manufacturer's Service Center.
- Sealey shall not be liable for any incidental or consequential damages arising from the use, misuse, or mounting of the code reader.
- All information in this manual is based on the latest information available at the time of publication and no warranty can be made for its accuracy or completeness. Sealey reserves the right to make changes at any time without notice.
5.2 Service Procedures
If you have any questions, please contact your local store, distributor, or visit our website at www.sealey.co.uk.
If it becomes necessary to return the code reader for repair, contact your local distributor for more information.
Note: Sealey's policy is to continually improve products, and they reserve the right to alter data, specifications, and component parts without prior notice. No liability is accepted for incorrect use of the product. WARRANTY: Guarantee is 12 months from purchase date, proof of which will be required for any claim.
Information: For a copy of the latest catalogue and promotions, call Sealey on 01284 757525 and provide your full name and address, including postcode.
Sealey Group, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk.
Contact: 01284 757500 | 01284 703534 | www.sealey.co.uk | sales@sealey.co.uk
