ANCEL FX2000 User Manual

2.1 On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) II

The first generation of On-Board Diagnostics (OBD I) was developed by the California Air Resources Board (ARB) and implemented in 1988 to monitor some of the emission control components in vehicles. As technology evolved and the desire to improve the onboard diagnostic system increased, a new generation of onboard diagnostic systems was developed. This second generation of onboard diagnostic standards is called "OBD II".

The OBD II system is designed to monitor emission control systems and key engine components by performing continuous or periodic tests of specific components and vehicle conditions. When a problem is detected, the OBD II system illuminates a warning light (MIL) on the vehicle's instrument panel to alert the driver, usually with 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. The following three pieces of valuable information are provided:

1. Whether the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is ordered 'on' or 'off';
2. What, if any, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) are stored;
3. Readiness monitor status.

2.2 Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC)

OBD II Diagnostic Trouble Codes are codes stored in the onboard 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 on 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 is setting the code. The second character, a number, 0-3; the other three characters, a hexadecimal character, 0-9 or AF provide additional information about where the DTC originated and the operating conditions that caused it. Below is an example to illustrate the digit structure:

DTC Example: P0202

Systems: P=Powertrain, B=Body, C=Chassis, 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 misfire, 4=Auxiliary emission controls, 5=Vehicle speed, idle control, and auxiliary inputs, 6=Computer and auxiliary outputs, 7=Transmission, 8=Transmission, 9=Transmission

Figure 2-1: DTC Structure Explanation

2.3 Data Link Connector (DLC) Location

The DLC (Data Link Connector or Diagnostic Link Connector) is usually a 16-pin connector where diagnostic code readers interact with the vehicle's onboard computer. The DLC is generally located about 12 inches from the center of the instrument panel (dashboard), below or around the driver's side for most vehicles. If the data link connector is not found under the dashboard, there should be a label indicating 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, consult the vehicle's service manual for its location.

Figure 2-2: Illustration showing the DLC location near the center of the dashboard.

2.4 OBD II Readiness Monitors

An important part of a vehicle's OBD II system is the readiness monitors, which are indicators used to determine if all emission components have been evaluated by the OBD II system. They are running periodic tests on specific systems and components to ensure they are functioning within permitted 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 compatible with all vehicles, and the exact number of monitors in any given vehicle depends on the vehicle manufacturer's emission control strategy.

Continuous Monitors: Some of the vehicle's components or systems are tested continuously 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 continuously monitors the above components, monitors key engine sensors, checks for engine misfires, and monitors fuel demands.

Non-continuous Monitors: Unlike continuous monitors, many emissions and engine system components require the vehicle to operate under specific conditions before the monitor is ready. These monitors are called non-continuous monitors and are listed below:

1. EGR System
2. O2 Sensors
3. Catalytic Converter
4. Evaporative System
5. O2 Sensor Heater
6. Secondary Air Injection
7. Heated Catalyst
8. Air Conditioning System

2.5 OBD II Monitor Readiness Status

The OBD II systems must indicate whether the vehicle's PCM monitoring system has completed tests on each component. Components that have been tested will be reported as "Ready" or "Complete," meaning they have been tested by the OBD II system. The purpose of recording readiness status is to allow inspectors to determine if the vehicle's OBD II system has tested all components and/or systems.

The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) sets a monitor to "Ready" or "Complete" after performing an appropriate drive cycle. The drive cycle that enables a monitor and sets the readiness codes to "Ready" varies for each individual monitor. Once a monitor is set to "Ready" or "Complete," it will remain in this state. Various factors, including clearing diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) with a code reader or disconnecting the battery, can cause readiness monitors to be set to "Not Ready." Since the three continuous monitors evaluate constantly, they will be reported as "Ready" all the time. If the test for a particular compatible non-continuous monitor has not been completed, the monitor status will be reported as "Not Completed" or "Not Ready." For the OBD monitoring system to be ready, the vehicle must be driven under a variety of normal operating conditions. These operating conditions may include a combination of highway driving and stop-and-go, city-type driving, and at least one overnight rest period. For specific information on how to prepare your vehicle's OBD monitoring system, consult your vehicle's owner's manual.

2.6 OBD II Definitions

Powertrain Control Module (PCM): OBD II terminology for the onboard computer that controls the engine and powertrain.

Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL): Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Service Engine Soon, Check Engine) is a term used for the light on the instrument panel. It is to alert the driver and/or repair technician that there is a problem with one or more of the 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 repaired as soon as possible. Under certain conditions, the dashboard light will flash or blink. This indicates a serious problem, and the flashing is intended to discourage vehicle operation. The vehicle's onboard diagnostic system cannot turn off the MIL until the necessary repairs are completed or the condition no longer exists.

DTC: Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) that identify which section of the emission control system has malfunctioned.

Enable Criteria: Also referred to as enabling conditions. These are the specific vehicle events or conditions that must occur within the engine before the various monitors are set or function. Some monitors require the vehicle to follow a prescribed "drive cycle" routine as part of the enabling criteria. Drive cycles vary between vehicles and for each monitor in any particular vehicle. Consult the vehicle's factory service manual for specific enabling procedures.

OBD II Drive Cycle: A specific mode of vehicle operation that provides the necessary conditions to set all applicable vehicle readiness monitors to the "ready" condition. The purpose of completing an OBD II drive cycle is to force the vehicle to run its onboard diagnostics. Some type of drive cycle must be performed after DTCs have been cleared from the PCM memory or after the battery has been disconnected. Performing the vehicle's complete drive cycle will "set" the readiness monitors so that future faults can be detected. Drive cycles vary by vehicle and the monitor that needs to be reset. For the specific vehicle drive cycle, consult the service manual.

Freeze Frame Data: When an emission-related fault occurs, the OBD II system not only sets a code but also records a snapshot of the vehicle's operating parameters to help identify the problem. This set of values is known 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.

Fuel Trim (FT): Feedback adjustments to the base fuel program. Short-term fuel trim refers to dynamic or instantaneous adjustments. Long-term fuel trim refers to gradual adjustments in the fuel calibration schedule that are more gradual than short-term fuel trim adjustments. These long-term adjustments compensate for vehicle differences and gradual changes that occur over time.

3.1 FX2000 Diagram

Figure 3-1: Front View of FX2000

Navigation Buttons:

• 6. Up/Down: Moves the cursor up and down for selection.
• 7. Left/Right: Moves the cursor left or right for selection; or scrolls up or down the page when more than one page is displayed.
• 8. OK: Confirms a selection (or action) from a menu list.
• ESC: Exits the current program or returns to the previous screen.

3.2 Specifications

• Display: 4.0" TFT LCD screen
• Input Voltage Range: 9 ~ 18V
• Operating Temperature: 0 to 50 °C (32 to 122 °F)
• Storage Temperature: -20 to 70 °C (-4 to 158 °F)
• External Dimensions: 7.7" (L) x 4.17" (W) x 1.25" (H)
• Weight: <400 g

3.3 Included Accessories

1. FX2000 Tool
2. Diagnostic Cable
3. User Manual
4. Memory Card
5. Memory Card Reader
6. USB Cable

4.1 Install Memory Card

1. Remove the memory card from the package box.
2. Insert the memory card into the FX2000 memory card slot perpendicularly. Ensure it is fully inserted in the correct place with the "micro" label facing up.

Note: You may hear a click if you insert the memory card correctly. Press the card lightly, and it will eject automatically.

4.2 Connect FX2000

1. Turn off the ignition.
2. Locate the vehicle's DLC socket: it provides 16 standard pins and is generally found on the driver's side, about 12 inches from the center of the dashboard. Refer to Figure 2-2. If the DLC is not equipped under the dashboard, there will be a label indicating its position. If the DLC cannot be found, consult the automobile repair manual.
3. Connect one end of the diagnostic cable to the FX2000's 16-pin OBD II connector and connect the other end to the vehicle's DLC.

Figure 4-2: Diagram showing the connection between the FX2000, diagnostic cable, and vehicle.

4. Turn on the ignition. The engine can be off or running.
5. After finishing, the system will begin to initialize. After initialization, the system will enter the main menu interface.

CAUTION: Do not connect or disconnect any test equipment with the ignition on or the engine running.

4.3 Configurations

Select [Setup] from the main menu and press [OK]; the system will enter the following screen:

Figure 4-2: Setup Screen

• 1) Language: This option allows you to configure the user interface language. Note: Due to continuous software updates, the language interface may differ from different software versions.
• 2) Unit of Measure: This option allows you to configure the unit of measure.
• 3) Beeper: Used to activate/deactivate the beep sound.
• 4) Record Mode: Used to activate/deactivate the recording function.

5.1 OBDII / EOBD Diagnostics

This option provides a quick way to check DTCs, isolate the cause of the illuminated Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL), check monitor status before emission certification tests, verify repairs, and perform a series of other emission-related services. In Figure 5-1, press [OK] to enter the system; the screen will automatically jump to Figure 5-2:

Figure 5-2: Monitor Status Table (MIL Status, DTCs in ECU, Readiness status, etc.)

Press [OK], and a screen similar to Figure 5-3 will appear:

Figure 5-3: Diagnostic Menu Functions

Follow the on-screen instructions to check the possible cause and try again.

1. Read Codes: This option is used to identify which section of the emission control system has malfunctioned.
2. Erase Codes: After reading the codes retrieved from the vehicle and performing certain repairs, you can use this function to erase the vehicle's codes. Before performing this function, ensure the vehicle's ignition key is in the ON position with the engine off. Notes: Before performing this function, be sure to retrieve and record the trouble codes. After erasing, you must retrieve the trouble codes once more or turn on the ignition and retrieve the codes again. If there are still some trouble codes in the system, troubleshoot the problem using the factory diagnostic guide, then erase the code and check again.
3. I/M Readiness: I/M refers to the inspection and maintenance that is legislated by the government to comply with federal clean air standards. I/M Readiness indicates whether the various emission-related systems in the vehicle are functioning correctly and are ready for inspection and maintenance tests. The purpose of the I/M readiness monitor status is to indicate which of the vehicle's monitors have run and completed their diagnostic and test (as described in Chapter 2.5), and which have not yet run and completed the test and diagnostic of their designated sections of the vehicle's emission system. The I/M Readiness Monitor Status function can also be used (after a fault has been repaired) to confirm that the repair has been performed correctly and/or to check the monitor's execution status.
4. Data Stream: This option retrieves and displays live data and parameters from the vehicle's ECU.
5. View Freeze Frame: When an emission-related fault occurs, the onboard computer records certain vehicle conditions. This information is known as freeze frame data. Freeze frame data is a snapshot of the operating conditions at the time of an emission-related fault. Note: If DTCs were cleared, freeze frame data may not be stored in the vehicle's memory, depending on the vehicle.
6. O2 Sensor Test: The results of the O2 sensor test are not live values, but the results of the ECU's last O2 sensor test. For live O2 sensor readings, refer to any of the live sensor displays, such as the graph display. Not all test values are applicable to all vehicles. Therefore, the generated list will vary by vehicle. Additionally, not all vehicles are compatible with the oxygen sensor display.
7. On-Board Monitor Test: This function can be used to read the results of onboard diagnostic tests for specific components/systems.
8. EVAP System Test: The EVAP test function allows you to initiate a leak test for the vehicle's EVAP system. The FX2000 does not perform the leak test but sends signals to the vehicle's onboard computer to initiate the test. Before using the system test function, consult the vehicle's service repair manual to determine the necessary procedures to stop the test.
9. Vehicle Information: This option displays vehicle information such as VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), CID (Calibration ID), and CVN (Calibration Verification Number).

5.2 System Diagnostics

This function is specially designed to diagnose the electronic control system of unique vehicle models, which includes the following systems:

• ENG (Engine)
• ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)
• TCM (Transmission Control Module)
• SRS (Supplemental Restraint System)

Notes:

• Before diagnosing, ensure that the diagnostic program corresponding to a specific vehicle model has been installed on your FX2000.
• For vehicles manufactured by different suppliers, you may have different diagnostic menus. For more details, follow the on-screen instructions to continue.

Consult the flowchart illustrated below to diagnose a vehicle:

Diagnostic Flowchart:

• Select "Diagnose"
• Select Vehicle Manufacturer
• Select Vehicle Model (Note: for different vehicles, the selection of the vehicle brand may differ. Generally, we can choose a vehicle by year of manufacture. But for BENZ, we have to choose it by chassis).
• Select Test System
  • Automatic: (Note: this mode allows your tool to scan the vehicle's test system automatically)
  • Manual Selection: (Note: in this case, you must choose the desired system manually. Simply follow the on-screen instructions to continue).
• Select Test Function
  • Read Version Information
  • Read Fault Code
  • Clear Fault Code
  • Read Data Stream

5.3 Review

This function is used to review or clear recorded DTCs, data streams, and freeze frame data.

6.1 DLC Location Information

This option helps you find the location of the vehicle's DLC.

6.2 DTC Library

In Figure 6-1, select [DTC Library] and press [OK] to enter the following screen:

Figure 6-2: DTC Lookup Screen

Press the [▲/▼] button to move the highlight bar to a different position. Press [◀/▶] to modify the value, then press the [OK] button; the screen will display the DTC definition.