Otc Wireless Switch Hub Users Manual ABS / AIR BAG 2004 USER GUIDE

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ABS / AIR BAG 2004
USER GUIDE

IMPORTANT NOTICES
SAFETY
All Danger, Warning and Important notes must be followed for your safety. These safety messages are
in the following formats:
DANGER:
Means you risk possible loss of life.

WARNING:
Means you risk possible bodily harm.
IMPORTANT: Means that the information demands special attention
or that you risk damage to the vehicle or the tool.
Note: are added to provide clarity and helpful tips.

These safety messages cover situations SPX is aware of. SPX cannot know, evaluate and advise you as
to all of the possible hazards. You must be certain that any conditions or service procedures encountered
do not jeopardize your personal safety.

COPYRIGHT
No part of this manual may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or by any
means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission
of SPX.

DISCLAIMER
All information, illustrations, and specifications contained in this technical instruction manual are based on the latest
information available at the time of publication. The right is reserved to make changes at any time without obligation
to notify any person or organization of such revisions or changes. Further, SPX shall not be liable for errors contained herein or for incidental or consequential damages (including lost profits) in connection with the furnishing,
performance or use of this material.

© 2005 SPX Corporation. All rights reserved.

ABS / AIR BAG 2004
SOFTWARE
for the
NEXT GENERATION
INFORMATION SYSTEM TOOL
USER GUIDE

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide
Contents

Contents
IMPORTANT NOTICES. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . inside front cover

Chapter 1: General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Equipment Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Next Generation Information System (NGIS) Tool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Cables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
System Smart 25-Pin Cable (3305-73). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
DB25 Power Cable (3305-72). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Extension Cable (3305-71) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Vehicle Adapters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Universal “B” Adapter (213486) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Universal “C” Adapter (3305-74). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Ford II Adapter (3305-58) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
GM Adapter (212633) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Sumitomo Adapter (3305-19) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Battery Adapter (212638) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Software Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Software Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Software Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Application Manager Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Vehicle Identification Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Vehicle Identification - Required Cables Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
Diagnostic Menu Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Datastream . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Custom Datastream . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Diagnostic Codes (or Read Codes and Clear Codes) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Post Collision Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Pathfinder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Vehicle Info . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Controller ID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Special Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Vehicle Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Chapter 2: Start-up Steps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Step 1: Enter the Vehicle Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Step 2: Connect the Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
OBD II Vehicle Cable Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Non-OBD II Vehicle Cable Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Step 3: Select the Diagnostic Function. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide
Contents

Chapter 3: Datastream . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
About Datastream . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Automatic Diagnostic Code Triggered Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Basic Datastream Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Datastream Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Record and Playback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Record a Data File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Playback a Data File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
Graph / Analog / LED / Digital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
About Digital Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
About LED Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
About Graph Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
About Analog Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Lock. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
To Top. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Freeze Frame . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Pathfinder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Print. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Zoom . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Sort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
English / Metric Units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
Show / Hide LED Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
Show / Hide Analog. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

Chapter 4: Custom Datastream . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Chapter 5: Diagnostic Codes (Read / Clear Codes) . . . . . . . . . . 33
Read Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Read and Display Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
Read Codes Only . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
Review Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Clear Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Self Diagnostics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Wiggle Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Read Codes / Clear Codes
(Flash Codes) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Read Codes (Flash Codes). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
Clear Codes (Flash Codes). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

Chapter 6: Post Collision Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Chapter 7: Pathfinder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Repair Trac . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Fast Fixes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
TSB References. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Component Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Brake Bleed Procedure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Brake Bleed Sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide
Contents

Chapter 8: Vehicle Info . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Related TSBs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
System Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
PROM Identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Chapter 9: Controller ID . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Chapter 10: Special Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Basic Special Test Procedure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Special Test Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ABS Manual Control Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ABS Motor Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ABS Version Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Actuator Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Autobleed Test, Automated Bleed, or Service Bleed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Automated Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Brake Bleed Preparation Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Function Test. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Gear Tension Relief Test. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Hydraulic Control Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Idle Up Manual Control Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Lamp Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Manual Control Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Motor Rehome Test. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Pump Motor Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Relay Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Requested Torque Test. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Setup SDM Serial Number (Air Bag Sensing and Diagnostic Module) . . . .
Solenoid Tests. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
System Identification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
TCS Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Traction Control System (TCS) Manual Control Tests . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Voltage Load Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Special Test Screen Examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Instructional Screen Example . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Bi-directional Control Screen Examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Basic Single Component Control Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Basic Multiple Component Control Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Solenoid, Relay Controls Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Automatic Test Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Activate/Deactivate Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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SPX Corporation Limited Warranty. . . . . . . . . inside back cover

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ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide
Safety Precautions

Safety Precautions
Danger:
• When an engine is operating, keep the service area WELL VENTILATED or attach a building
exhaust removal system to the engine exhaust system. Engines produce carbon monoxide,
an odorless, poisonous gas that causes slower reaction time and can lead to serious injury
or death.

Warning:
• When working with hydraulic or fuel lines, liquids under pressure may escape and create a
dangerous condition. Never open a bleeder valve or loosen a hydraulic line while the ABS
is pressurized. Use adequate ventilation and make sure there are no sparks or possibility of
sparks present that may ignite any vapor.
• Wear an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) approved eye shield when testing or
repairing vehicles. Objects propelled by whirling engine components or pressurized liquids
escaping may cause personal injury.
• Set the parking brake and block the wheels before testing or repairing a vehicle. It is especially
important to block the wheels on front-wheel drive vehicles because the parking brake does
not hold the drive wheels.
• Do not drive the vehicle and operate the NGIS tool at the same time. Any distractions may
cause an accident. Have one person operate the NGIS tool as another person drives the vehicle.
• Maintain adequate clearance around moving components or belts during testing. Moving
components and belts can catch loose clothing, body parts, or test equipment and cause
serious damage or personal injury.
• Automotive batteries contain sulfuric acid and produce explosive gases that can result in
serious injury. To prevent ignition of gases, keep lighted cigarettes, sparks, flames, and other
ignition sources away from the battery at all times. If you are using the battery as a power
source, connect the RED (+) battery clip to the positive vehicle battery terminal and connect
the BLACK (-) battery clip to a good ground away from the battery.
• Refer to the service manual for the vehicle being serviced and adhere to all diagnostic
procedures and precautions. Failure to do so could result in air bag deployment, personal
injury, or otherwise unneeded air bag system repairs.
• Only use specially designed replacement parts (brake hoses and lines) for ABS-equipped
vehicles.
• After bleeding the brake system, check the brake pedal for excessive travel or a “spongy”
feel. Bleed again if either condition is present.
• When installing transmitting devices (Citizen Band radio, telephone, etc.) on ABS-equipped
vehicles, do not locate the antenna near the ABS control unit or any other control unit.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide
Safety Precautions
Important:
• To avoid damaging the NGIS tool or generating false data, make sure the vehicle battery is fully
charged and the connection to the vehicle DLC is clean and secure.
• Never disconnect or reconnect any electrical connector while the ignition is on. Damage to the ABS
control unit may result.
• Do not hammer speed rings into the hub or tap on speed sensor components (sensor, sensor rings, etc.).
Speed rings must be pressed, not hammered, into the hub and striking or tapping speed sensor
components can cause demagnetization or a loss of polarization, affecting the accuracy of the
speed signal returning to the ABS control unit.
• Use the recommended anti-corrosion coating on speed sensor components: Do not contaminate
with grease.
• When speed sensor components have been removed, be sure to check the sensor-to-ring gap,
when applicable.
• Do not mix tire sizes. Increasing the width slightly is acceptable but rolling diameter must be identical
for all tires. Some manufacturers recommend tires of the same brand, style, and type. Failure to
follow this precaution may cause inaccurate wheel speed readings.
• Do not expose the ABS control unit to prolonged periods of high heat: 185 degrees F/85 degrees C
for 2 hours is considered a maximum limit.
• Use a recommended brake fluid, do not use silicone brake fluids in an ABS-equipped vehicle.
• Before bleeding the brake system, make sure no diagnostic codes are present.
• Do not let the master cylinder run dry during the brake bleeding procedure.
• Do not allow brake fluid to contact the motor pack or the electrical connectors.

VW Problems:
• Be aware of the following issue regarding year 2000 and 2001 VW Golf, GTI, Jetta/Bora, and Beetle air bag
controllers:
• There are reports of Air bag warning lights staying on permanently after scanning with a scan tool. The Air
bag controller shows DTC number 65535, indicating an internal error which cannot be cleared. This problem
seems to be limited to air bag controllers with the part number 6Q0-909-605-A. There are a number of
different “index” or “color-code” variations of this controller and not all of them are affected. If you have a
2000 or 2001 Golf, Jetta/Bora, Beetle, or a similar SEAT or Skoda model, physically inspect the air bag
controller and look at the part number. If it is not 6Q0-909-605-A, then it should be safe to test. If it is Q0-909605-A, then it is at risk of this problem — avoid testing the air bag controller.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 1: General Information
Introduction

1: General Information
Introduction
ABS / Air Bag 2004 is a software program for the Next
Generation Information System (NGIS) tool. With the
software installed (and unlocked) in the NGIS tool, and
with the tool properly connected to a vehicle’s electronic control unit (ECU), you can use the software to
read the vehicle’s anti-lock brake system (ABS) and air
bag information and to perform device control tests.

Some of the functions provided by the ABS / Air Bag
2004 software include the following:
•

After you enter vehicle information into the NGIS tool, the
software displays an illustration of the cables required for
connecting the NGIS tool to the vehicle’s ECU. After you
connect the correct cables, the software automatically
determines the tests available for that vehicle.

•

The software automatically saves the most recently used
vehicle setup for you to reuse quickly. You can also save
vehicle setups for reuse.

•

You can view “live” sensor and switch datastream information while it is being communicated from the vehicle’s
ECU.

•

The tests let you read diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
for air bags and anti-lock brake systems. (In addition, you
can manually enter diagnostic codes for vehicles without
readable electronic control units.)

•

Record (Save) and Playback functions let you record and
replay datastream DTC information similar to a video
recorder function.

•

An automatic diagnostic code triggered record function
automatically creates a recording for playback and alerts
you whenever a diagnostic code occurs during testing.

•

A Post Collision test provides instructions for testing air
bags after repair(s).

•

Pathfinder and Vehicle Info functions let you view vehiclespecific information, such as technical service bulletin
(TSB) references, vehicle specifications, repair instructions, ECU component location(s), and brake bleed
procedures.

•

The tests include programmed diagnostic procedures
(special tests) you can use for bi-directional control tests
on anti-lock brake systems.

Figure 1.1: NGIS Tool Connected to Vehicle DLC

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ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide
Equipment Descriptions

Equipment Descriptions
Next Generation Information System
(NGIS) Tool
The NGIS tool (purchased separately) is a portable,
hand-held tool. The Pathfinder 2001 (or newer) software and the ABS / Air Bag 2004 software must be
installed in the NGIS tool before you can use the NGIS
tool for testing the air bag and brake systems.
This User Guide assumes you are familiar with using
the NGIS tool. If necessary, refer to the User Guide for
the NGIS tool. As a quick reference, the NGIS keys are
listed below.
•

Function keys (four of them) - each key executes a command that corresponds with an option listed at the bottom
of the screen.

•

Direction key (four directions: Up, Right, Down, and Left)
- Up and Down select a menu option or a data field, or
scroll through a screen of text. Left and Right move
between fields or change the data entry within a field.

•

HELP - displays helpful information about the currentlydisplayed screen.

•

ENTER - executes a selected menu option or screen.

•

MENU - displays the NGIS tool’s main menu (the Application Manager screen).

•

EXIT - moves back one screen.

Figure 1.2: NGIS Tool

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 1: General Information
Equipment Descriptions

Cables

DB25 Power Cable (3305-72)

The cable used to connect the NGIS tool to the data link
connector (DLC) of a vehicle’s electronic control unit
(ECU) depends on the type of vehicle being tested. The
two most common cables are shown below. They are
the System Smart 25-pin cable (3305-73) and the
DB25 power cable (3305-72). An optional extension
cable may also be used.
Note: The Air Bag / ABS software tells you which cable must
be used for the vehicle you are testing. For details, refer to
“Step 1: Enter the Vehicle Information” on page 13.

1

2

3

Figure 1.4: DB25 Power Cable

System Smart 25-Pin Cable (3305-73)

1

2
3

Figure 1.3: System Smart 25-Pin Cable

The System Smart 25-pin cable is for On Board Diagnostic II (OBD ll) vehicles. The cable has the following
components:

The DB25 power cable is for non-OBD ll vehicles and
some OBD II vehicles. The cable has the following
components:
Item 1 8-Pin Adapter Connector - connects to the correct
adapter for the vehicle being tested. (Refer to
“Vehicle Adapters” on page 4.) The adapter then
connects to the data link connector (DLC) of the
vehicle’s electronic control unit.
Item 2 Power Plug - inserts into the vehicle’s cigarette
lighter receptacle. An optional Battery Adapter
(212638) can be used to connect to the vehicle’s
battery instead of the cigarette lighter receptacle.
(Refer to “Battery Adapter (212638)” on page 5.)
Item 3 25-pin Male Connector - connects to the DB25 port
on the top of the NGIS tool.

Extension Cable (3305-71)

Item 1 J-1962 Connector - connects to the data link connector (DLC) of the vehicle’s electronic control unit.
Item 2 System Smart Insert (SSI) - inserts into the port on
the top of the 25-pin connector. There are several
SSIs available (some are 3306-11, 3306-15, 330622). The SSI used depends on the vehicle being
tested.
Item 3 25-pin Male Connector - connects to the DB25 port
on the top of the NGIS tool. The 25-pin connector has
a port on the top of it for inserting a System Smart
Insert (SSI).

1

2

Figure 1.5: Optional Extension Cable

An optional extension cable (3305-71) is available. The
cable has the following connectors:
Item 1 25-pin Female Connector - connects to the 25-pin
male connector on the System Smart 25-pin cable,
the DB25 power cable, or any other 25-pin cable
being used.
Item 2 25-pin Male Connector - connects to the DB25 port
on the top of the NGIS tool.

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ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide
Equipment Descriptions

Vehicle Adapters

Universal “C” Adapter (3305-74)

The vehicle adapters are used with the DB 25 power
cable, shown on the previous page. The adapter used
depends on the vehicle being tested. Some of the most
common adapters are shown below.
Note: The Air Bag / ABS software tells you which adapter
must be used for the vehicle you are testing. For details, refer
to “Step 1: Enter the Vehicle Information” on page 13.

Universal “B” Adapter (213486)

1

2

Figure 1.7: Universal “C” Adapter

The Universal “C” adapter is for vehicle’s equipped with
Sumitomo anti-lock brake systems. The adapter has
the following components:
Item 1 8-Pin Connector - connects to the 8-pin connector
on the DB 25 power cable.

1

2

Figure 1.6: Universal “B” Adapter

The Universal “B” adapter is for vehicle’s equipped with
Bosch, Teves, or Kelsey Hayes anti-lock brake systems. The adapter has the following components:
Item 1 8-Pin Connector - connects to the 8-pin connector on
the DB 25 power cable.
Item 2 Leads / Probes - connect to the data link connector
(DLC) of the vehicle’s electronic control unit.
Item 3 Special Leads (not shown) - special, add-on, leads
(216094 and 3305-69) may be required for some
vehicles.

Item 2 Leads / Probes - connect to the data link connector
(DLC) of the vehicle’s electronic control unit.

Ford II Adapter (3305-58)
1

2

Figure 1.8: Ford II Adapter

The Ford II adapter is for vehicle’s equipped with MCU
anti-lock brake systems. It is also for reading Ford EECIV slow codes. The adapter has the following
components:
Item 1 DLC CONNECTOR - connects to the data link
connector (DLC) of the vehicle’s electronic control
unit.
Item 2 8-Pin Connector - connects to the 8-pin connector
on the DB 25 power cable.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 1: General Information
Equipment Descriptions

Battery Adapter (212638)

GM Adapter (212633)
1

2

2

1

Figure 1.9: GM Adapter

The GM adapter is for GM vehicles. The adapter has
the following components:
Item 1 DLC Connector - connects to the data link connector
(DLC) of the vehicle’s electronic control unit.
Item 2 8-Pin Connector - connects to the 8-pin connector
on the DB 25 power cable.

Sumitomo Adapter (3305-19)

Figure 1.11: Battery Adapter

The battery adapter can be used with the DB25 power
cable (shown on page 3) or other cables that have a
battery power plug. The adapter has the following
components:
Item 1 Battery Clamps - clamp to the battery’s terminals.
Item 2 Power Plug Connector - connects to (fits over) the
power plug on the DB25 power cable or other cables
with a power plug.

1

2

Figure 1.10: Sumitomo Adapter

The Sumitomo adapter is for vehicle’s equipped with
Sumitomo anti-lock brake systems. The adapter has
the following components:
Item 1 DLC Connector - connects to the data link connector
(DLC) of the vehicle’s electronic control unit.
Item 2 8-Pin Connector - connects to the 8-pin connector
on the DB 25 power cable.

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ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide
Software Description

Software Description
Software Installation
Before using the ABS / Air Bag 2004 software, the software must be installed in the NGIS tool and “unlocked”
with a Smart Card. The software is either preinstalled
in the NGIS tool, provided on a compact disc or flash,
or can be downloaded from the SPX web site.

From the Application Manager screen, you select Scan
Diagnostics and then press the ENTER key. This displays the Scan Diagnostics screen, which contains a
menu of the Scan Diagnostics software installed in the
NGIS tool, as shown below.

For complete installation instructions, refer to NGIS
Software Application Installation and Updates
(OTC p/n 529313) or 512 MB Memory Kit Installation
(OTC p/n 532140).

Software Screens
This section contains an overview of the main screens
in the ABS / Air Bag 2004 software. Some of the
screens contain menus and others contain test instructions or results.

Application Manager Screen
When you turn on the NGIS tool, the Application
Manager screen appears. The Application manager
screen contains a menu of the groups of software
installed in the NGIS tool.

Figure 1.12: Application Manager Screen

Figure 1.13: Scan Diagnostics Screen

To start the ABS / Airbag 2004 software from the Scan
Diagnostics screen, you select ABS/Air Bag 2004 and
then press the ENTER key. This displays the first Vehicle Identification screen, described on the next page.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 1: General Information
Software Description

Vehicle Identification Screen
When you select ABS / Air Bag 2004 from the Scan
Diagnostics menu, the first Vehicle Identification
screen appears.

Vehicle Identification - Required Cables
Screen

Figure 1.15: Vehicle Identification - Required Cables Screen

Figure 1.14: Vehicle Identification Screen

The Vehicle Identification screen has three sections as
follows:
•

top section - displays vehicle identification information
as you select options from the middle section.

•

middle section - contains options you select in order to
enter identification information for a vehicle. When you
select an option and press the ENTER key, the selected
option appears in the top section and the middle section
changes to the next group of selection options. For example, the middle section shown above is for selecting the
manufacturer. After you select a manufacturer, the middle
section changes to options for selecting the vehicle’s year
range. After you have entered all the information for a
vehicle, the middle section displays the cable connections
required for the vehicle (shown on the next page).

•

bottom section - contains function keys for: 1) entering
new information for a vehicle, 2) selecting and reusing
information for a vehicle previously tested, and 3) viewing
demonstration data.

For detailed information about using this screen, refer
to “Chapter 2: Start-up Steps” on page 13.

After you have entered all the information for a vehicle,
the top section displays the vehicle information and the
middle section displays the cable connections required
for the vehicle (refer to “Cables” on page 3).
With this screen displayed, you make the cable connections to the NGIS tool and the vehicle and then
press the ENTER key. This displays the Diagnostic
Menu screen for the vehicle being tested, as described
on the next page.

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ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide
Software Description

Diagnostic Menu Screen

Datastream
When you select Datastream from the Diagnostic
menu, the following screen appears.

Figure 1.16: Diagnostic Menu Screen

The Diagnostic Menu screen contains a menu of the
test options available for the vehicle being tested. The
next few pages show and briefly describe each of the
options on the Diagnostic menu.
Note: The screen shown above is only an example.
It shows all possible options that can appear on the
Diagnostic menu. In reality, only the options available
for the vehicle being tested will appear on this menu.

Figure 1.17: Datastream Screen

This screen displays live data from the vehicle’s electronic control unit (ECU). The data displays in a digital
format. You can optionally view the data in an LED,
analog, or graphical format. You can also change the
units of measure from English to Metric units. From this
screen, you can record, print, and sort the data.
For detailed information about using this screen, refer
to “Chapter 3: Datastream” on page 19.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 1: General Information
Software Description

Custom Datastream
When you select Custom Datasteam from the
Diagnostic menu, the following screen appears.

Diagnostic Codes
(or Read Codes and Clear Codes)
The diagnostic trouble code option(s) that appear on
the Diagnostic Menu screen vary depending on the
vehicle being tested. For some vehicles, the menu
option is Diagnostic Codes; for other vehicles, there are
two menu options: Read Codes and Clear Codes, as
described below.
The Diagnostic Codes option appears on the Diagnostic Menu screen for vehicles that allow reading of
diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) with a scan tool.

Figure 1.18: Custom Datastream Selection Screen - before selections

You use this screen to select specific (customized)
data items you want to display on the standard
Datastream screen.

The Read Codes and Clear Codes options appear on
the Diagnostic Menu screen (instead of the Diagnostic
Codes option) for vehicles that require reading of DTCs
by visually viewing them as “flash codes.” For this type
of vehicle, you identify the vehicle’s “flash code” numbers and manually enter the numbers into the NGIS tool
to see their descriptions.
When you use the diagnostic trouble code options, a
screen similar to the following screen appears. The
screen displays diagnostic test code (DTC) numbers
and descriptions.

Figure 1.19: Custom Datastream Selection Screen - after selections
Figure 1.20: DTC Information Screen

For detailed information about using the Custom
Datastream menu option, refer to “Chapter 4: Custom
Datastream” on page 31.

For detailed information about using the diagnostic
trouble code options, refer to “Chapter 5: Diagnostic
Codes (Read / Clear Codes)” on page 33.

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ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide
Software Description

Post Collision Test

Pathfinder

When you select Post Collision Test from the Diagnostic menu, several step-by-step instruction screens,
similar to the following screen, appear.

When you select Pathfinder from the Diagnostic
menu, the following screen appears.

Figure 1.22: Pathfinder Screen
Figure 1.21: Post Collision Test Screen

The screens provide instructions for testing air bags
after repair(s).
For detailed information about using the screens, refer
to “Chapter 6: Post Collision Test” on page 45.

The Pathfinder screen contains menu options for viewing vehicle-specific information, such as technical
service bulletin (TSB) references, vehicle specifications, ECU component location(s), and brake bleed
procedures. You can also use this function to access
the Repair Trac software or the Fast Fixes software
from within the ABS / Air Bag software.
For detailed information about using this screen, refer
to “Chapter 7: Pathfinder” on page 47.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 1: General Information
Software Description

Vehicle Info

Controller ID

When you select Vehicle Info from the Diagnostic
menu, the following screen appears.

When you select Controller ID from the Diagnostic
menu, the following screen appears.

Figure 1.23: Vehicle Info Screen

Figure 1.24: ECU Identification Data Screen

The Vehicle Info screen contains menu options for
viewing vehicle-specific information, such as vehicle
specifications, technical service bulletin (TSB) references, and the vehicle description (system type).

The ECU Identification screen contains information
about the selected EUC (Audi and Volkswagen).

For detailed information about using this screen, refer
to “Chapter 8: Vehicle Info” on page 55.

For detailed information about using this screen, refer
to “Chapter 9: Controller ID” on page 59.

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ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide
Vehicle Applications

Special Tests

Vehicle Applications

When you select Special Tests from the Diagnostic
menu, the following screen appears.

The ABS / Air Bag Vehicle Applications Reference
Guide is available as a portable document format (pdf)
file that installs on the PC during the NGIS Software
installation (see “Software Installation” on page 6).
The Reference Guide contains a listing of the vehicles
and ECUs that the ABS /Air Bag 2004 software works
with.
To open the Reference Guide, double-click the NGIS
User Guide icon on the Windows desktop. This displays a Select User Guide window. Click the ABS / Air
Bag 2004 Vehicle Applications link to open the Reference Guide.
With the Reference Guide opened, notice the following:
•

The left side of the Reference Guide window contains a
Table of Contents. You click a topic to display its contents.

•

The right side of the window displays the contents; you
can right-click inside the contents to display a navigation
menu.

The Special Tests screen contains menu options for
performing special diagnostic tests. After you select a
menu option, pre-programmed screens appear for the
diagnostic test.

•

You can also print the Reference Guide.

•

For help using the file, open Acrobat Reader from the
Windows Start, Programs menu and then select Help,
Reader Help from the main menu.

Note: The screen shown above is only an example. It shows
only a few of the possible options that can appear on the
screen.

Note: To view the Guide, the Adobe Acrobat Reader software application must be installed on the PC. When you open
the Guide, if an Open With box appears, click the Cancel button and do one of the following to install Acrobat Reader:

Figure 1.25: Special Tests Screen

For detailed information about using this screen, refer
to “Chapter 10: Special Tests” on page 61.

To install an English version, insert the NGIS CD into the PC’s
CD drive. When the installation Welcome window appears,
click Cancel, then Yes, then Finish. Then click the Windows
Start button and click Run to display the Run box. Click the
Browse button and then select My Computer, The CD drive,
and AcroReader51_ENU.exe. Click the Open button (or OK).
Then click the OK button in the Run box and follow the onscreen instructions.
To install a version for another language, go to the website:
http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/
reader_archive.html#Win

Disclaimer: Acrobat Reader is licensed and copyrighted by Adobe Systems Incorporated. It is provided
as a courtesy, not a license for use. If you install it, you
must accept and abide by the terms of it's license
agreement, which display the first time you start the
application.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 2: Start-up Steps
Introduction

2: Start-up Steps
Introduction
All vehicle setups require a specific cable connection
to the vehicle Data Link Connector (DLC). To determine the specific cable required for a vehicle, you must
first enter the vehicle information. After you have done
this, the screen displays the specific cable information
for the vehicle. You then use this information to connect
the correct cable to the DLC and proceed with the vehicle diagnostics.
This chapter includes the following general steps to get
you started:
1

Enter the vehicle information to determine the correct
cable required.

2

Connect the required cable.

3

Select the diagnostic function you want to perform.

Figure 2.1: Application Manager Screen

2

Select Scan Diagnostics and press the ENTER key. This
displays the Scan Diagnostics screen.

Step 1: Enter the Vehicle
Information
Use the following steps to enter vehicle information and
to determine which cable to use for the communication
connection between the NGIS tool and the vehicle’s
electronic control unit (ECU).
To enter the vehicle information, follow these steps:
Note: Before doing these steps, make sure the NGIS tool’s
battery is charged.
1

Press the NGIS tool’s power button to turn the tool on.
This displays the Application Manager screen.
Figure 2.2: Scan Diagnostics Screen

3

Select ABS / Air Bag 2004 and press the ENTER key.
This displays the first Vehicle Information screen
(Figure 2.3 on page 14).

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ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide
Step 1: Enter the Vehicle Information
5

To enter new information for a vehicle, do the following:
a

Select the vehicle manufacturer and press the
ENTER key. This displays the selected vehicle
description in the top part of the screen and changes
the middle part of the screen to the next screen of a
series of screens, as shown below.

Note: The screens shown below are only examples. The
screens that actually appear are different for each vehicle.

Figure 2.3: Vehicle Information - Manufacturer Screen

4

With the Vehicle Information screen displayed, you can
enter new information for a vehicle or you can select and
reuse saved information for a vehicle already tested. Do
one of the following:

•

To enter new information for a vehicle, go to step 4
and then step 6.

•

To reuse saved information for a vehicle already
tested go to step 5 and then step 6.

IMPORTANT: Be aware of the following issue
regarding year 2000 and 2001 VW Golf, GTI,
Jetta/Bora, and Beetle air bag controllers:
There are reports of Air bag warning lights
staying on permanently after scanning with a
scan tool. The Air bag controller shows DTC
number 65535, indicating an internal error
which cannot be cleared. This problem seems
to be limited to air bag controllers with the part
number 6Q0-909-605-A. There are a number of
different “index” or “color-code” variations of
this controller and not all of them are affected.
If you have a 2000 or 2001 Golf, Jetta/Bora,
Beetle, or a similar SEAT or Skoda model,
physically inspect the air bag controller and
look at the part number. If it is not 6Q0-909-605A, then it should be safe to test. If it is Q0-909605-A, then it is at risk of this problem — avoid
testing the air bag controller.

Figure 2.4: Vehicle Information - Series of Screens

b On each screen that appears, select the correct
option and then press the ENTER key. Do this until
the complete vehicle information is entered and the
illustration of the required cables appears, as shown
in Step 6.
Note: On the Vehicle Information screens, you can press the
Demo function key to display demonstration data in the software. The Demo function stays on until you press the function
key again to turn it off. When the Demo function is on, a checkmark appears in the box on the function key.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 2: Start-up Steps
Step 1: Enter the Vehicle Information

6

To reuse saved information for a vehicle already tested,
do the following:
a

Press the Reuse function key. This displays the
Reuse Vehicles screen, which contains a list of saved
vehicle descriptions.

7

After you have entered new vehicle information or
selected a vehicle description to reuse, the Required
Cables illustration displays on the Vehicle Identification
screen. With this screen displayed, make the required
cable connections. For specific steps, refer to the next
section (“Step 2: Connect the Cable” on page 16).

Note: Some vehicles do not have an ECU and do not require
a cable connection. For these vehicles, the screen states that
no cable connection is required. If this happens, skip the next
section and go to “Step 3: Select the Diagnostic Function”
on page 18.

Figure 2.5: Reuse Vehicles Screen

b

Select the vehicle description to use and press the
ENTER key. This displays the illustration of the
required cables, as shown in Step 6.
Figure 2.6: Vehicle Information - Required Cables Screen

Note: The Reuse Vehicles list holds 25 vehicle descriptions.
When the list is full, old descriptions automatically delete as
you enter new descriptions. To prevent a description from
being automatically deleted, highlight the description and
press the Save function key. This places a disk icon to the
left of the file name and saves the description until you delete
it. (Use the Delete function key to delete a selected
description.)

Note: For some vehicles, this screen will illustrate the vehicle’s Data Link Connector (DLC) test terminals rather than the
required cables.

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ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide
Step 2: Connect the Cable

Step 2: Connect the Cable
The method used to connect the NGIS tool to a vehicle’s electronic control unit (ECU) depends on the
vehicle’s configuration as follows:
•

A vehicle equipped with an On Board Diagnostics Two
(OBD II) vehicle management system supplies both communication and 12-volt power through a standardized
J-1962 data link connection (DLC).

•

A vehicle not equipped with an OBD II system supplies
communication through a DLC connection and supplies
12-volt power through the cigarette lighter receptacle or
a connection to the battery.

Note: Both connections described above charge the NGIS
tool’s battery while connected.
Figure 2.8: System Smart 25-pin Cable Connection to NGIS Tool

OBD II Vehicle Cable Connection

2

This type of connection generally requires the System
Smart 25-pin cable (3305-73) and a System Smart
Insert (SSI).

Connect the cable’s 25-pin connector to the DB25 port on
the top of the NGIS tool. Finger tighten the connecting
screws.
Note: Extension cable (3305-71) can be used between
the NGIS tool and the System Smart 25-pin cable. Refer
to “Extension Cable (3305-71)” on page 3.

Note: For a description of the cables, refer to “Cables” on
page 3.
To connect the System Smart 25-pin cable, follow these
steps:

Figure 2.7: SSI and System Smart 25-pin Cable
Figure 2.9: System Smart 25-pin Cable Connection to Vehicle’s DLC

1

Locate the required SSI and insert it into the port on the
top of the cable’s 25-pin connector.

3

Connect the cables’s J-1962 (16 pin) connector into the
vehicle’s J-1962 DLC (16 pin), located under the vehicle
dash.

4

Continue with the next section, “Step 3: Select the Diagnostic Function” on page 18.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 2: Start-up Steps
Step 2: Connect the Cable

Non-OBD II Vehicle Cable Connection

2

This type of connection generally requires the DB25
Power cable (3305-72) or another vehicle-specific
cable.

Connect the cable’s 25-pin connector to the DB25 port on
the top of the NGIS tool. Finger tighten the connecting
screws (see Figure 2.11).
Note: Extension cable (3305-71) can be used between
the NGIS tool and the DB25 Power cable. Refer to
“Extension Cable (3305-71)” on page 3.

Note: Some non-ODB II vehicles may require the System
Smart 25-pin cable.
Note: For a description of the cables, refer to “Cables” on
page 3.
To connect the DB25 Power cable or another similar
cable, follow these steps:

Figure 2.12: DB25 Power Cable Connection to Cigarette Lighter
Receptacle

3

Connect the cables’s power plug into the vehicle’s cigarette lighter receptacle.
Note: Battery Adapter (212638) can be used to connect
the cable’s power plug to the vehicle’s battery. Refer to
“Battery Adapter (212638)” on page 5.

Figure 2.10: Adapter Connection to DB25 Power Cable

1

Locate the required adapter and connect the adapter’s
8-pin connector to the cable’s 8-pin connector. For a
description of the adapters, refer to “Vehicle Adapters”
on page 4.

Figure 2.13: DB25 Power Cable Connection to Vehicle’s DLC

4

Connect the adapter’s connector to the vehicle’s DLC.
Note: The vehicle’s DLC is not always located under the
dash as shown above.
Note: Some adapters may have more than one connector or may have test leads instead of a connector.
Whatever the case, make the required connections to the
vehicle’s DLC.

5

Figure 2.11: DB25 Power Cable Connection to NGIS Tool

Continue with the next section, “Step 3: Select the Diagnostic Function” on page 18.

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ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide
Step 3: Select the Diagnostic Function

Step 3: Select the Diagnostic
Function
After connecting the cable, the NGIS tool should still
display the Vehicle Identification - Required Cables
screen.

3

Select the option for the diagnostic function you want to
perform and press the ENTER key.

4

For specific steps for each function, refer to the following
chapters:

•

Datastream - “Chapter 3: Datastream” on page 19.

•

Custom Datastream - “Chapter 4: Custom Datastream” on page 31.

•

Diagnostic Codes (or Read and Clear Codes) “Chapter 5: Diagnostic Codes (Read / Clear
Codes)” on page 33.

•

Post Collision Test - “Chapter 6: Post Collision
Test” on page 45.

•

Pathfinder - “Chapter 7: Pathfinder” on page 47.

•

Vehicle Info - “Chapter 8: Vehicle Info” on page 55.

•

Controller ID - “Chapter 9: Controller ID” on
page 59.

•

Special Tests - “Chapter 10: Special Tests” on
page 61.

WARNING:
Figure 2.14: Vehicle Information - Required Cables Screen

To select the diagnostic function, follow these steps:
1

With the Required Cables (or Connectors) illustration still
displayed, press the ENTER key.

2

One or more instruction screens may appear. If so, read
each screen, follow the instructions, and press the OK
function key to display the next screen. Do this until the
Diagnostic Menu screen appears.

Figure 2.15: Diagnostic Menu Screen

Note: The screen shown above is only an example.
It shows all possible options for the Diagnostic menu. During
real testing, only the options available for the vehicle being
tested will appear on this screen.

Before performing any diagnostic functions, refer
to the Safety Precautions and instructions provided in this User Guide and the warnings provided
by the vehicle manufacturer. In addition, follow any
warnings and descriptions provided on the NGIS
tool screens.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 3: Datastream
About Datastream

3: Datastream
The Datastream function lets you view live ABS
and air bag data from a vehicle’s electronic control
unit (ECU). This chapter describes how to use the
Data-stream function.

Basic Datastream Procedure
Use the following steps to obtain a basic understanding
of how the Datastream function works.
Note: Before performing this procedure, follow the instructions in “Chapter 2: Start-up Steps” on page 13.

About Datastream
To use the datastream function, follow these steps:

Datastream is the communication of information
between the sensors, computer, and actuators
(switches) on a vehicle. The sensors monitor the vehicle systems and send data to the vehicle computer, the
computer uses the data from the sensors to determine
if any vehicle systems need adjusting. If so, the computer converts the data into commands and sends the
commands to the actuators. The actuators then convert
the commands to mechanical actions that adjust the
vehicle systems.

Note: Optionally, you can use Custom Datastream and
select specific datastream items for viewing. For details,
refer to “Chapter 4: Custom Datastream” on page 31.

As this stream of data is being communicated in the
vehicle, the software can read the vehicle computer
and display the data information in a readable format,
called datastream. This lets you view “live” sensor and
switch readings.

Automatic Diagnostic Code
Triggered Record
The ABS Air Bag 2004 software has an automatic Diagnostic Code Triggered Record function.This function
works automatically and does not appear as an option
on any menu. If a diagnostic fault occurs while you are
testing a vehicle, the software automatically creates a
recording for playback and alerts you with a screen
message. To replay these recordings, refer to “Playback a Data File” on page 21.

Figure 3.1: Diagnostic Menu Screen

1

From the Diagnostic Menu screen, select Datastream
and press the ENTER key. This displays the Datastream
screen (see Figure 3.2 on page 20).
Note: If a group selection screen appears, select a group
and press the ENTER key to display the Datastream
screen.

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Datastream Functions

Datastream Functions
There are several functions you can use on the Datastream screen. Most of the functions are activated with
the function keys at the bottom of the screen. These
functions, described in detail on the next few pages,
include the following:
•

Record and Playback – records the data for viewing
again at a later time. (See page 21.)

•

Graph / Analog / LED / Digital – depending on the type
of data on a line, changes the view of a selected line from
digital to graphical, analog, or LED. (See page 22.)

•

To Top – moves a selected data item to the top of the
screen. (See page 24.)

•

Lock – locks selected data lines so they are always
included when recording and printing, even if they are
below the viewable area of the screen. (See page 24.)

•

Freeze Frame – “freezes” the data acquisition and displays past data. (See page 25.)

Figure 3.2: Datastream Screen

2

Notice the following about the Datastream screen:

•

3

Each line displays a data item. You use the Up and
Down Direction keys to scroll through the data and to
select lines.

•

The screen’s data updates as the software reads from
the vehicle’s ECU. Each update is called a “frame” of
data.

•

The function keys at the bottom of the screen let you
perform several other functions on the screen. For
details, refer to the next section, “Datastream Functions” on page 20.

Note: The following functions are on the menu that appears
when you press the More function key.

•

Pathfinder – provides quick access to the Pathfinder software’s Quick Path functions from within the ABS / Air Bag
software. (See page 25.)

•

Print – prints the data in the viewable area of the current
data display. (See page 26.)

•

Zoom – enlarges the view of a data line. (See page 26.)

•

The status line above the function keys displays current software status information.

•

Sort – rearranges the data alphabetically or with the LED
and graphed lines at the top. (See page 27.)

•

You can stop and start the live readings at any time.
When you stop the readings, the data “freezes” on the
screen. For details, refer to “Freeze Frame” on
page 25.

•

English / Metric Units – changes the units of measure
for the data from English to Metric, or vice versa.
(See page 28.)

•

•

The LED bar, directly above the status line, appears
only when you use the More function key, LED Bar
option. For details, refer to “Show / Hide LED Bar” on
page 29.

Show / Hide LED Bar – displays a row of LED readings
directly above the status line and function keys. The LED
readings are for frequently monitored switches. (See
page 29.)

•

Show / Hide Analog – when analog gauges are displayed at the top of the screen, temporarily hides the
gauges or displays them again. (See page 30.)

When you are finished using the screen, press the EXIT
key to return to the Diagnostic Menu screen.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 3: Datastream
Datastream Functions

Record and Playback
The Record function lets you record up to 150 one-second frames of data (75 frames that occur before
pressing the Record function key and 75 frames that
occur after pressing the key). The Playback function
lets you replay recorded data. You can also save and
delete recordings.

Record a Data File
To record a data file, follow these steps:

Playback a Data File
To replay a recorded (saved) data file, follow these
steps:
1

Press the MENU key to display the Application Manager
screen.

2

From the Application Manager screen, select Playback.
This displays the Events to Playback screen.

Note: The Events to Playback list holds the recordings.
When the list is full, old recordings automatically delete as you
make new recordings. To prevent a recording from being
automatically deleted, highlight the recording and press the
Save function key. This places a disk icon to the left of the
file name and saves the recording until you delete it. (Use the
Delete function key to delete a selected recording.)

Figure 3.3: Datastream Screen - Record Function

1

With the Datastream screen displayed, press the Record
function key. This does the following:

•

Temporarily shades the Record function key.

•

Automatically records the past 75 frames of data that
occurred before pressing the key and continues
recording the next 75 frames of data as they occur.

•

Displays a countdown on the status line of the number
of frames left to be recorded (from Recording: 75 to
Recording:1). When the countdown reaches 1, the
recorded data is saved as an Event file and placed in
a Playback folder.

Figure 3.4: Events to Playback Screen

3

Select the recorded event to replay and press the
ENTER key. (The events are identified by the vehicle
description, date, and time of the recording.) The
recorded event displays on either the DTC display screen
or the Datastream screen, depending on the type of
recording (Fault Codes or Live Data).

4

If the Datastream screen displays, use the Left and Right
Direction keys to view the data. The Frame number in the
status line changes as you move through the recording.
Note: There may be a DTC function key you can use to
view a list of any DTCs that existed at the time of the
recording. You can use the To Top function key to move
a selected line to the top of the screen. You can also use
other functions of the Datastream screen, such as Graph,
Print, Zoom, and Sort. Refer to the steps for these on the
next few pages.

Note: To record less than 150 frames of data, press the
EXIT key at any time. This stops the recording and saves
only the frames already captured.
2

When the recording completes, continue viewing live data
or press the EXIT key to return to the Diagnostic Menu
screen.

3

Refer to the next section for playback steps.

5

When you are finished viewing the recording, press the
EXIT key to return to the Application Manager screen.

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Datastream Functions

Graph / Analog / LED / Digital

About Digital Display

The Graph/ Analog / LED / Digital function lets you
change the display type for each line on the Datastream
screen. Depending on the type of data on a line, you
can change a selected line from digital to a graphical
or LED display. You can also set some of the lines to
display analog meters (gauges) at the top of the screen.

When a line is displayed as Digital, its reading is a word
or a number as shown for all the lines in Figure 3.5.

To change the display for each line, follow these steps:

You can change the display of the lines as follows:
•

If the selected line’s data reading is a word, such as On,
Off, Open, Closed, etc., then you can change the line’s
display back and forth between LED and Digital.

•

If the selected line’s data reading is a number, such as 1.1
V, 23.3 Amps, etc., then you can change the line to also
display as either a graph or an analog gauge.

About LED Display
If a selected line’s data reading is a word (such as On,
Off, Open), you can use the LED function key to change
the line to display as an LED bar. For example, see Figure 3.5 and Figure 3.6. Notice how the function key
changes to toggle back and forth between LED and
Digital.

Figure 3.5: Datastream Screen - Digital Display

1
2

With the Datastream screen displayed, use the Up or
Down Direction key to select the line to change.
Press the Graph / Analog / LED / Digital function key.
Note: This name of this function key changes each time
you press the key. The name of the key represents the
next display type that will appear when you press the key.

3

Repeat steps 1 and 2 for each line to change.
Figure 3.6: Datastream Screen - LED Display Function

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 3: Datastream
Datastream Functions

About Graph Display

About Analog Display

If a selected line’s data reading is a number (such as
14.4 V, 1.1 V, or 23 Amps), you can use the Graph function key to display the line’s data as a graph. For
example, see Figure 3.7 and Figure 3.8. Notice how the
function key changes to Analog so you can change the
display to Analog (see the next section).

When a selected line’s data reading is displayed as a
graph (seeFigure 3.8), you can use the Analog function
key to display the line’s data as an Analog gauge at the
top of the screen (see Figure 3.9). When you display
the gauge, the Digital data line remains displayed in its
normal position in the list. Also, the function key
changes from Analog to Digital so you can change the
display to back to Digital only.

Note: The function key toggles from Graph to Analog to
Digital and back to Graph.

You can display up to three gauges at the top of the
screen. When gauges are displayed, you can temporarily “hide” them. For details, refer to “Show / Hide
Analog” on page 30.

Figure 3.7: Datastream Screen - Digital Display

Figure 3.9: Datastream Screen - Analog Display

Figure 3.8: Datastream Screen - Graph Display

The graph has a past activity section and a magnified
live activity window. The minimum and maximum measurements appear to the right of the graph and the
digital reading is below the graph. You can use the Left
and Right Direction keys to move the magnified window
through the data. See “Freeze Frame” on page 25.

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Datastream Functions

Lock

To Top

The Lock function lets you “lock” selected data lines so
they are always included when recording and printing,
even if they are below the viewable area of the screen.

The To Top function lets you move a selected data line
to the top of the Datastream screen.

Note: Generally, printing and recording include only the data
items within the viewable area of the data display.
To lock data lines, follow these steps:
1

With the Datastream screen displayed, use the Up or
Down Direction key to select the line to lock.

2

Press the ENTER key. A padlock icon appears on the left
side of the line.

Note: You can also use the Sort function to rearrange the
data lines. For details, refer to “Sort” on page 27.
To move a data line to the top of the screen, follow these
steps:

Figure 3.11: Datastream Screen - To Top Function

1

With the Datastream screen displayed, use the Up or
Down Direction key to select the line to move.

2

Press the To Top function key. The selected line moves
to the top of the screen.

3

Repeat steps 1 and 2 for each line to move.

Figure 3.10: Datastream Screen - Sensor Lock Function

3

Repeat steps 1 and 2 for each line to lock.

Note: The lines remain locked for the selected vehicle until
you unlock them, even if you exit the software.
4

To unlock a locked line, select the locked line and then
press the ENTER key (see steps 1 and 2).

Note: Any displayed analog gauges always remain at the top
of the screen. Lines moved “To Top” appear below the analog
gauges.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 3: Datastream
Datastream Functions

Freeze Frame

Pathfinder

The Freeze Frame function lets you “freeze” the data
display on the Datastream screen and lets you view
past data frame-by-frame.

The Pathfinder function on the Datastream screen’s
More menu provides quick access to the Pathfinder
software’s menu options. With these menu options, you
can view vehicle-specific information, such as DTC
descriptions, technical service bulletin (TSB) references, vehicle specifications, ECU component
location(s), and brake bleed procedures. You can also
use this function to access the Repair Trac or Fast
Fixes software from within the ABS / Air Bag software.

To “freeze” data, follow these steps:

To access the Pathfinder menu options from the
Datastream screen, follow these steps:

Figure 3.12: Datastream Screen - Freeze Frame Function

1

With the Datastream screen displayed, press the Left
Direction key to begin the freeze function.

2

Repeatedly press the Left Direction key or press and
hold the key to move backward through the data. As you
do this, notice the following:
The Frame number (above the Record key) changes
to show the frame number of the currently-displayed
data.

Figure 3.13: Datastream Screen - Pathfinder Function

1

With the Datastream screen displayed, press the More
function key.

•

The message next to the frame number flashes as
“Freeze Frame” and “Exit to resume”.

2

If necessary, use the Up or Down Direction key to select
the Pathfinder function.

•

On any displayed graphs, the vertical, dashed-line
moves to display the past data for each frame.

3

Press the ENTER key. This displays the Pathfinder
screen.

•

On any displayed digital or LED lines, or analog
gauges, the data changes to display the past data for
each frame.

•

3

Use the Left or Right Direction keys to move backward
or forward through the data, frame-by-frame.

4

When finished, press the EXIT key to return to the normal
screen display and to resume reading data.

Figure 3.14: Pathfinder Screen

4

To use this screen, refer to “Chapter 7: Pathfinder” on
page 47.

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Datastream Functions

Print

Zoom

The Print function on the Datastream screen’s More
menu lets you print the data currently displayed on the
screen.

The Zoom function on the Datastream screen’s More
menu lets you magnify the view of each data line on the
Datastream screen.

To print the data, follow these steps:

Note: This function applies to digital, graph, and LED display
lines. The function can be used for the normal display or for
a “frozen” display.
To “zoom” the view of the data lines, follow these steps:

Figure 3.15: Datastream Screen - Print Function

1

With the Display Live Data screen displayed, press the
More function key.

2

Use the Down Direction key to select the Print function.

3

The message “Print the current frame of data?” appears
on a Print screen. Press the OK function key.

Figure 3.16: Datastream Screen - Zoom Function

1

With the Datastream screen displayed, use the Up or
Down Direction key to select the digital, LED, or graph
line to change.

2

Press the More function key.

3

Use the Down Direction key to select the Zoom function.

4

Press the ENTER key. This magnifies the selected line,
as shown in Figure 3.17.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 3: Datastream
Datastream Functions

Sort
The Sort function on the Datastream screen’s More
menu lets you rearrange the data on the Datastream
screen alphabetically or with either locked or graphed
lines at the top of the screen.
Note: You can also use the To Top function to rearrange the
data lines. For details, refer to “To Top” on page 24.
To sort the data lines, follow these steps:

Figure 3.17: Datastream Screen - Zoom Function

5

Repeat steps 1 through 4 for each line to change.

6

To remove the “Zoom” view from a line, select the line
with the “zoomed” view and then select the More, Zoom
function again (see steps 2, 3, and 4).

Figure 3.18: Datastream Screen - Sort Function

Note: Figure 3.18 shows all graphs disabled. To use the Sort
by Graphed function, one or more graphs must be displayed.
To use the Sort by Locked function, one or more lines must
be locked.
1

With the Datastream screen displayed, press the MORE
function key.

2

Use the Down Direction key to select the Sort function.

3

Press the ENTER key. This displays the Sort Options
screen.

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Datastream Functions

English / Metric Units
The English / Metric Units function on the Datastream
screen’s More menu lets you change the units of measure for the data from English to Metric, or vice versa.
To change the units of measure, follow these steps:

Figure 3.19: Sort Options Screen

4

5

From the Sort Options screen (Figure 3.18), select one of
the following:

•

Select By Alphabet to sort the data alphabetically, or

•

Select By Graphed to sort the data with the graphs
at the top of the screen.

•

Select By Locked to sort the data with the locked lines
at the top of the screen.

After making the selection, the Datastream screen
displays the rearranged lines (or graphs).
Note: Any displayed analog gauges always remain at the
top of the screen.

Figure 3.21: Datastream Screen - English / Metric Units Function

1

With the Datastream screen displayed, press the MORE
function key.

2

Use the Down Direction key to select the English Units
or Metric Units function.
Note: This name of this menu option changes each time
you select it. It changes back and forth between English
Units and Metric Units. The name of the option represents
the units of measure that will appear after you select the
option.

3

Figure 3.20: Datastream Screen - Sort by Alphabet Function

Press the ENTER key. This displays the data in the
selected units of measure.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 3: Datastream
Datastream Functions

Show / Hide LED Bar
The Show / Hide LED Bar function on the Datastream
screen’s More menu lets you displays (or remove) a
row of LED readings directly above the status line and
function keys. The LED readings are for a predefined
set of frequently monitored switches.
To show or hide the LED bar, follow these steps:

Figure 3.23: Datastream Screen - LED Bar Displayed

4

Figure 3.22: Datastream Screen - Show / Hide LED Bar Function

1

With the Datastream screen displayed, press the MORE
function key.

2

Use the Down Direction key to select the Show LED Bar
or HIde LED Bar function.
Note: This name of this menu option changes each time
you select it. It changes back and forth between Show
LED Bar and Hide LED Bar. Show LED Bar displays the
LED bar and Hide LED Bar removes it.

3

Press the ENTER key. (See Figure 3.23 on page 29.)

Notice the following about the LED bar:

•

P/N is the park / neutral indicator

•

TCC is the torque converter clutch indicator

•

A/C is the air conditioning indicator

•

Closed and Open are the operating loop indicators

•

Rich and Lean are the O2 sensor indicators

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Datastream Functions

Show / Hide Analog
When analog gauges are displayed at the top of the
Datastream screen, the Show / Hide Analog function on
the More menu lets you temporarily hide the gauges or
display them again.
Note: To originally display analog gauges, or to entirely turn
them off, refer to “Graph / Analog / LED / Digital” on page 22.
To hide or show the analog gauges, follow these steps:

Figure 3.24: Datastream Screen - Show / Hide Analog Function

1

With the Datastream screen displayed, press the MORE
function key.

2

Use the Down Direction key to select the Hide Analog
or Show Analog function.
Note: This name of this menu option changes each time
you select it. It changes back and forth between Hide Analog and Show Analog. Hide Analog temporarily removes
the gauges and Show Analog displays the gauges again.

3

Press the ENTER key.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 4: Custom Datastream

4: Custom Datastream
The Custom Datastream function lets you select
specific data items to display on the standard
Datastream screen.

2

a

Use the Up and Down Direction key to select an item
to include in the display.

b Press the ENTER key. A check mark appears in the
box on the left side of the item.

To use the custom datastream function, follow these
steps:
1

Select the data items to include in the Datastream display
as follows:

Follow the instructions in “Chapter 2: Start-up Steps” on
page 13 to display the Diagnostic Menu screen.

Figure 4.3: Custom Datastream Selection Screen - after selections

c
Figure 4.1: Diagnostic Menu Screen

1

From the Diagnostic Menu screen, select Custom
Datastream and press the ENTER key. This displays the
Custom Datastream selection screen.

Repeat a and b for each item to include in the display.

Note: To deselect an item, select the item again and
press the ENTER key. Optionally, use the Select All and
Clear All function keys to select or deselect all of the items
at once.
3

When finished selecting data items, press the View Data
function key to display the selected items on the
Datastream screen.

Figure 4.2: Custom Datastream Selection Screen - before selections
Figure 4.4: Datastream Screen

4

For details about the Datastream screen, refer to “Chapter 3: Datastream” on page 19.

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ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 5: Diagnostic Codes (Read / Clear Codes)

5: Diagnostic Codes (Read / Clear Codes)
The Diagnostics Codes (or Read Codes and Clear
Codes) functions let you read, review, and clear
diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) for a vehicle.
The diagnostic trouble code option(s) that appear on
the Diagnostic Menu screen vary depending on the
vehicle being tested. For some vehicles, the menu
option is Diagnostic Codes (see Figure 5.1); for other
vehicles, there are two menu options: Read Codes and
Clear Codes (see Figure 5.2).
The Diagnostic Codes option appears on the Diagnostic Menu screen for vehicles that allow reading of
DTCs with a scan tool. This chapter includes the following procedures for using the Diagnostic Codes
functions:
•

“Read Codes” on page 34

•

“Review Codes” on page 37

•

“Clear Codes” on page 38

•

“Self Diagnostics” on page 39

•

“Wiggle Test” on page 41

The Read Codes and Clear Codes options appear on
the Diagnostic Menu screen (instead of the Diagnostic
Codes option) for vehicles that require reading of DTCs
by visually viewing them as “flash codes.” For this type
of vehicle, you identify the vehicle’s “flash code” numbers and manually enter the numbers into the NGIS tool
to see their descriptions. This chapter includes the following procedures for using the Read Codes and Clear
Codes options when they appear directly on the Diagnostic Menu screen:
•

“Read Codes (Flash Codes)” on page 42

•

“Clear Codes (Flash Codes)” on page 44

Note: Before performing the procedures in this chapter, follow the instructions in “Chapter 2: Start-up Steps” on
page 13.
Note: The ABS Air Bag 2004 software has an automatic
Diagnostic Code Triggered Record function. For vehicles with
datastream access, if a diagnostic fault occurs while you are
testing a vehicle, the software automatically alerts you with a
screen message and creates a recording for playback. To
replay these recordings, refer to “Playback a Data File” on
page 21.

Figure 5.1: Diagnostic Menu Screen with Diagnostic Codes Option

Figure 5.2: Diagnostic Menu Screen with Read Codes and Clear Codes
Options

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Read Codes

Read Codes
The Diagnostic Codes, Read Codes option lets you use
the NGIS tool to read DTCs from a vehicle that allows
access to the vehicle’s electronic control unit (ECU)
through a data link connection (DLC).
Depending on the vehicle being tested, the Read
Codes procedure varies. This section includes two separate Read Codes procedures, as follows:
•

Read and Display Codes (below) - this procedure reads
and displays the DTCs in one procedure.

•

Read Codes Only (page 35)- this procedure only reads
the DTCs. You have to use the Review Codes procedure
(page 37) to view codes after reading them with this
procedure.
Figure 5.4: Diagnostic Trouble Codes Menu Screen

Read and Display Codes
Use these steps to read and display DTCs for vehicles
that allow reading and displaying of codes in one
procedure.
Note: For vehicles that require reading of DTCs by visually
viewing them as “flash codes,” refer to “Read Codes / Clear
Codes (Flash Codes)” on page 42.

2

Select Read Codes and press the ENTER key. One of
the following happens:

•

If the vehicle’s ECU stores current and history codes,
the Read Codes menu screen appears (see Figure
5.5). Continue with the next step.

•

If the vehicle’s ECU stores only current codes,
the DTC Information screen appears (see Figure 5.6).
Go to Step 4.

To read and display DTC codes, follow these steps:
Note: Before performing this procedure, make sure the vehicle’s ignition key is in the On (Run) position with the engine
off.

Figure 5.5: Read Codes Menu Screen

Figure 5.3: Diagnostic Menu Screen

1

From the Diagnostic Menu screen, select Diagnostic
Codes and press the ENTER key. This displays the Diagnostic Trouble Codes menu screen.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 5: Diagnostic Codes (Read / Clear Codes)
Read Codes

3

Select either History Codes or Current Code as follows:
Note: For some vehicles, the menu options may be
Past and Present instead of History and Current.

•

•

Select History Codes and press the ENTER key to
display history (or past) codes for the vehicle. History
Codes are diagnostic trouble codes that have
occurred intermittently.
Select Current Codes and press the ENTER key to
display current (or present) codes for the vehicle. Current Codes are diagnostic trouble codes that have
occurred a specified number of times.

Read Codes Only
Use these steps to read DTCs for vehicles that allow
reading of codes as one procedure and viewing of
codes as a separate procedure (review).
Note: These steps only read the DTCs. You have to use the
Review Codes procedure (page 37) to view codes after reading them with this procedure.
Note: For vehicles that require reading of DTCs by visually
viewing them as “flash codes,” refer to “Read Codes / Clear
Codes (Flash Codes)” on page 42.
To read codes, follow these steps:

Figure 5.6: DTC Information Screen

Note: General Motors codes are generally listed as A, B, C,
or D in order of importance for repair.

Figure 5.7: Diagnostic Menu Screen

4

1

View the list and save or print it, if necessary.
To view a saved file, refer to “Playback a Data File” on
page 21. For printing information, refer to “Print” on
page 26.
Note: For some vehicles, the DTC Info screen has a
Pathfinder function key. This function key lets you access
the Pathfinder software’s Quick Path function from with in
the ABS / Air Bag software. For details, refer to “Chapter
7: Pathfinder” on page 47.

5

Use the EXIT key to return to previous screens.

Note: Use the Clear Codes function to erase the codes from
a vehicle’s ECU. For details, refer to “Clear Codes” on
page 38.

From the Diagnostic Menu screen, select Diagnostic
Codes and press the ENTER key. This displays the Diagnostic Trouble Codes menu screen (see Figure 5.8 on
page 36).

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Read Codes

Figure 5.8: Diagnostic Trouble Codes Menu Screen

Figure 5.10: Read Codes Test Screen

2

4

Select Read Codes and press the ENTER key. This displays an instruction or information screen, similar to the
following screen.

The test screen displays the codes being read and the
time remaining for the test. When the test is finished, the
word “Wait” changes to “Test completed.” When this happens, press the EXIT function key to continue. This
displays the following screen.

Figure 5.9: Information or Instruction Screen

Note: If connection information is provided (see Figure 5.9),
use the information to connect the NGIS tool to the vehicle’s
DLC.

Figure 5.11: Read Codes Completed Screen

5

Press the OK function key.

3

6

One or more instruction screens may appear telling you
how to clear the codes from the vehicle. Read each
screen and use the function keys to answer any
questions.

7

When finished, use the EXIT key to return to previous
screens.

One or more information or instruction screens appear.
Read the screens and follow all instructions. If necessary,
use the function keys to answer any questions. Do this
until the test screen appears (see Figure 5.10).

Note: Use the Review Codes function to view a list of any
codes that were read. For details, refer to “Review Codes”
on page 37.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 5: Diagnostic Codes (Read / Clear Codes)
Review Codes

Review Codes

3

For some vehicles, the Review Codes option appears
on the Diagnostic Trouble Codes menu screen. This
option lets you review trouble codes after initially reading them.

If another menu appears, select KOEO on Demand and
press the ENTER key. This displays the list of codes on
the Review Codes screen.
Note: If there are no codes to display, a message screen
states that the code library is empty. If necessary, read
the codes. Refer to “Read Codes” on page 34.

To review diagnostic trouble codes, follow these steps:

Figure 5.14: Review Codes Screen

4

View the list and save or print it, if necessary.
To view a saved file, refer to “Playback a Data File” on
page 21. For printing information, refer to “Print” on
page 26.

5

Use the EXIT key to return to previous screens.

Figure 5.12: Diagnostic Menu Screen

1

Select Diagnostic Codes from the Diagnostic Menu
screen. This displays the Diagnostic Trouble Codes menu
screen.

Note: After reviewing the codes, if necessary, clear the
codes from the vehicle and the ABS / Air Bag software. Use
any instructions that were provided when reading the codes.
For some vehicles the Diagnostic Trouble Codes menu
screen may have a Clear Codes option. If so, refer to “Clear
Codes” on page 38. If necessary, consult the manufacturer’s
service manual for the correct “clear code” method.

Figure 5.13: Diagnostic Trouble Codes Menu Screen

2

From the Diagnostic Trouble Codes screen, select
Review Codes and press the ENTER key.

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Clear Codes

Clear Codes
For some vehicles, the Clear Codes option appears on
the Diagnostic Trouble Codes menu screen. This
option lets you clear DTC codes from a vehicle. For
some vehicles, this procedure also clears codes stored
in the ABS / Air Bag software.
After reading and / or reviewing the diagnostic trouble
codes, use the following steps to clear the codes from
the vehicle. If Clear Codes is not an available menu
option, consult the manufacturer’s service manual for
the correct “clear code” method.
To clear the diagnostic trouble codes, follow these
steps:
Figure 5.16: Diagnostic Trouble Codes Menu Screen

Note: Before performing this procedure, make sure the
vehicle’s ignition key is in the On (Run) position with the
engine off.

2

From the Diagnostic Trouble Codes menu screen, select
Clear Codes and press the ENTER key. This displays a
clear codes instruction screen similar to either Figure 5.17
or Figure 5.18.

Figure 5.15: Diagnostic Menu Screen

1

Select Diagnostic Codes from the Diagnostic Menu
screen. This displays the Diagnostic Trouble Codes
menu screen.

Figure 5.17: Clear Codes Instruction Screen

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 5: Diagnostic Codes (Read / Clear Codes)
Self Diagnostics

Self Diagnostics
For some vehicles (Ford), the Self Diagnostics option
appears on the Diagnostic Trouble Codes menu
screen. This function is a diagnostic test that is activated and managed by the vehicle. At the completion
of the test, a list of diagnostic trouble codes displays on
the screen.
Note: Before performing this procedure, make sure the vehicle’s ignition key is in the On (Run) position with the engine
off.
To perform a self diagnostic test, follow these steps:

Figure 5.18: Clear Codes Instruction Screen

3

Read the screen and follow all instructions, if necessary.
Press the appropriate function key.

4

After this, one or more information or instruction screens
may appear. Read the screens and follow all instructions.
If necessary, use the function keys to answer any questions. Do this until the Diagnostic Trouble Codes menu
screen appears.

5

Use the EXIT key to return to previous screens.

Note: Check the codes again. If any codes remain, repeat
the Clear Codes steps. Make sure the vehicle’s ignition key
is in the On (Run) position and the engine is off. (If codes
remain, the problem may still exist in the vehicle.)
Note: GM supplemental inflatable restraint (SIR) code 52,
which indicates the air bag has been deployed, cannot be
cleared. All other codes clear and the SIR dash warning light
turns off.

Figure 5.19: Diagnostic Menu Screen

1

From the Diagnostic Menu screen, select Diagnostic
Codes and press the ENTER key. This displays the Diagnostic Trouble Codes menu screen.

Figure 5.20: Diagnostic Trouble Codes Menu Screen

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Self Diagnostics
2

Select Self Diagnostics and press the ENTER key. This
displays the Self Diagnostics menu screen.

Figure 5.23: Self Diagnostic Test Instruction Screen
Figure 5.21: Self Diagnostics Menu Screen

3

Select On Demand Test and press the ENTER key. This
displays the On Demand Test screen.

5

Read and follow the instructions on the screen and press
the OK function key.

6

One or more instruction screens may appear. If so, read
each screen and use the function keys to answer any
questions. Do this until the list of codes appears on the
DTC Info screen.

Figure 5.22: Self Diagnostic On Demand Test Screen
Figure 5.24: DTC Information Screen

4

Wait for the test to start. While the test runs, a timer counts
down the time remaining for the test. When the test is
complete, an instruction screen (similar to Figure 5.23)
may appear.

7

View the list and save or print it, if necessary.
To view a saved file, refer to “Playback a Data File” on
page 21. For printing information, refer to “Print” on
page 26.
Note: For some vehicles, the DTC Info screen has a
Pathfinder function key. This function key lets you access
the Pathfinder software’s Quick Path function from with in
the ABS / Air Bag software. For details, refer to “Chapter
7: Pathfinder” on page 47.

8

Use the EXIT key to return to previous screens.

Note: After viewing the codes, clear the codes. Refer to
“Clear Codes” on page 38.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 5: Diagnostic Codes (Read / Clear Codes)
Wiggle Test

Wiggle Test
For some vehicles (Ford), the Wiggle Test option
appears on the Diagnostic Trouble Codes menu
screen. This function checks for intermittent breaks in
connections and for resulting DTCs. When a circuit
break is detected, the NGIS tool beeps and places the
DTC code in memory.
To perform a wiggle test, follow these steps:

Figure 5.27: Wiggle Test Screen

4

The test screen displays the state of the test, the number
of transitions (circuit breaks that occur), and the time
remaining for the test. While the test is running, wiggle the
wiring and wiring connections or drive the vehicle to recreate the intermittent failure condition suspected.
Note: To stop the test before the test time expires, press
the EXIT function key.

5

Note: One or more instruction screens may appear. If so,
read each screen and use the function keys to answer
any questions. Do this until the list of codes appears on
the DTC Info screen.

Figure 5.25: Diagnostic Menu Screen

1

To finish the test, press the ENTER key. This displays a
list of any DTCs that occurred.

From the Diagnostic Menu screen, select Diagnostic
Codes and press the ENTER key. This displays the Diagnostic Trouble Codes menu screen.

Figure 5.28: DTC Information Screen

6

View the list and save or print it, if necessary.
To view a saved file, refer to “Playback a Data File” on
page 21. For printing information, refer to “Print” on
page 26.

7

Use the EXIT key to return to previous screens.

Figure 5.26: Diagnostic Trouble Codes Menu Screen

2

Select Wiggle Test and press the ENTER key.

3

One or more information or instruction screens may
appear. Read the screens and follow all instructions. If
necessary, use the function keys to answer any questions. Do this until the Wiggle Test screen appears.

Note: After viewing the codes, clear the codes. Refer to
“Clear Codes” on page 38.

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Read Codes / Clear Codes (Flash Codes)

Read Codes / Clear Codes
(Flash Codes)
If a vehicle requires that you read diagnostic trouble
codes by visually viewing them as “flash codes,” the
Read Codes and Clear Codes menu options appear
directly on the Diagnostic Menu screen (instead of the
Diagnostic Codes option).

Read Codes (Flash Codes)
When the Read Codes option appears on the Diagnostic Menu screen, use the option to: 1) view instructions
for how to physically view flash codes from the vehicle,
and 2) to enter the flash code numbers into the NGIS
tool to see their descriptions.
To read flash codes, follow these steps:

For this type of vehicle, you identify the vehicle’s “flash
code” numbers and manually enter the numbers into
the NGIS tool to see their descriptions. The Read
Codes function provides instructions for how to physically view the flash codes and lets you enter the code
numbers to see their descriptions. The Clear Codes
function provides instructions for how to manually clear
flash codes from the vehicle.
Note: Flash codes are DTCs that you identify by: 1) grounding a pin on the vehicle’s check connector to trigger a specific
indictor light to blink, and 2) viewing and counting the number
of times the indicator light blinks.

This section includes the following procedures:
•

“Read Codes (Flash Codes)” (in the next column)

•

“Clear Codes (Flash Codes)” on page 44

Figure 5.29: Diagnostic Menu Screen

1

From the Diagnostic Menu screen, select Read Codes
and press the ENTER key. This displays the Connector
Location screen.
Note: The Connector Location screen is not available for
all vehicles. If this screen does not appear, go to Step 4.

Figure 5.30: Connector Location Screen

2

View the information and print it, if necessary. For printing
information, refer to “Print” on page 26.

3

Press the ENTER key. This displays the DTC Retrieval
Procedure screen.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 5: Diagnostic Codes (Read / Clear Codes)
Read Codes / Clear Codes (Flash Codes)

Figure 5.31: DTC Retrieval Procedure Screen

Figure 5.33: Review Codes Screen

4

View the DTC retrieval procedure and print it, if necessary. For printing information, refer to “Print” on page 26.

7

5

Use the connector location and DTC retrieval procedure
to read the flash codes from the vehicle. When you know
the codes, press the ENTER key. This displays the Possible Codes screen.

View the list and save or print it, if necessary.
To view a saved file, refer to “Playback a Data File” on
page 21. For printing information, refer to “Print” on
page 26.

8

Press the EXIT key to return to the Diagnostic Menu
screen.

9

Clear the codes. Refer to “Clear Codes (Flash Codes)”
on page 44.

Figure 5.32: Possible Codes Screen

6

Use the Possible Codes screen to enter the flash codes
as follows:
a

Use the Direction keys to select (highlight) a code
number. With the number selected, press the ENTER
key.

b Repeat step a until all the flash codes are highlighted.
c

Press the EXIT key to display the code descriptions.
This displays the Review Codes screen.

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Read Codes / Clear Codes (Flash Codes)

Clear Codes (Flash Codes)
After retrieving flash codes from a vehicle (refer to
“Read Codes (Flash Codes)” on page 42), use the following steps to clear the codes from the vehicle.
Note: If necessary, consult the manufacturer’s service manual for the correct “clear code” method.
To clear flash codes, follow these steps:

Figure 5.34: Diagnostic Menu Screen

1

From the Diagnostic Menu screen, select Clear Codes
and press the ENTER key. This displays the Erase Procedure screen.

Figure 5.35: Erase Procedure Screen

2

View the information and print it, if necessary. For printing
information, refer to “Print” on page 26.

3

Press the EXIT key to return to the Diagnostic Menu
screen.

4

Use the erase procedure to clear the flash codes from the
vehicle.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 6: Post Collision Test

6: Post Collision Test
The Post Collision Test function is a preset test for testing air bags after repair.
Note: Before performing the test steps, follow the instructions in “Chapter 2: Start-up Steps” on page 13.
To perform a Post Collision Test, follow these steps:

Figure 6.2: Post Collision Test Screen

2

Read the screen, follow the instructions, and press the
ENTER key.

3

After this, several instruction screens appear. Read the
screens and follow all instructions. Do this until the Diagnostic Trouble Codes menu screen appears.

Figure 6.1: Diagnostic Menu Screen

Note: For some vehicles, the Post Collision Test option may
be available only after first selecting Diagnostic Codes. The
option then appears on the Diagnostic Trouble Codes menu
screen.
1

Select Post Collision Test and press the ENTER key.
This displays an instruction screen.

Figure 6.3: Diagnostic Trouble Codes Menu Screen

Note: The Post Collision Test option may not appear on the
menu at this time.
4

Do one of the following:

•

If the SIR warning lamp is off, the procedure is complete. Use the EXIT key to return to previous screens.

•

If the SIR warning lamp is on, continue with the next
step.

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Post Collision Test
5

Select Read Codes from the Diagnostic Trouble Codes
menu screen and press the ENTER key.
Note: If the Read Codes menu screen appears, select
Current Codes from the menu and press the ENTER key.
This displays the DTC Information screen.

Figure 6.4: DTC Information Screen

6

View the list and save or print it, if necessary.
To view a saved file, refer to “Playback a Data File” on
page 21. For printing information, refer to “Print” on
page 26.
Note: For more information about DTCs and the DTC
Information screen, refer to “Chapter 5: Diagnostic
Codes (Read / Clear Codes)” on page 33.

7

Use the EXIT key to return to previous screens.

8

If necessary, use the Clear Codes function to erase the
codes from the vehicle’s ECU. For details, refer to “Clear
Codes” on page 38.

9

Do any further air bag repairs and repeat the test.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 7: Pathfinder
Repair Trac

7: Pathfinder
The Pathfinder function lets you access the Pathfinder
software’s functions from within the ABS / Air Bag software. This option lets you view vehicle-specific
information for some 1988-2003 GM, Saturn, Ford,
Chrysler, and Jeep vehicles.
Note: You can also access the Pathfinder functions from
within the ABS / Air Bag software by doing one of the
following:

•

From the Datastream screen, press the More function
key and select the Pathfinder option. For details, refer
to “Pathfinder” on page 25.

•

From the DTC Information screen, press the Pathfinder function key. For details, refer to “Read and
Display Codes” on page 34.

Repair Trac
The Repair Trac option lets you access the Repair Trac
software from within the ABS / Air Bag software. The
Repair Trac software contains repair instructions for
hard-to-diagnose “pattern failures” on vehicles with
50,000 or more miles.
Note: You can also access the Repair Trac software from
the NGIS tool’s Repair Information menu, depending on the
system version in the tool. If you do this, you will need to enter
the vehicle information again.

This chapter includes procedures for using the following Pathfinder functions:
•

Repair Trac - used to access the Repair Trac software
from within the ABS / Air Bag software. (See the steps in
the next column.)

•

Fast Fixes - used to access the Fast Fixes software from
within the ABS / Air Bag software. (See page 48.)

•

TSB References - used to view numbers and titles of
technical service bulletins that apply to a vehicle. (See
page 50.)

•

Specifications - used to view brake and ABS specifications for a vehicle. (See page 51.)

•

Component Location - used to view a description of the
computer and connector locations for a vehicle.
(See page 52.)

•

Brake Bleed Procedure - used to view instructions for
bleeding a vehicle’s brakes. (See page 53.)

•

Brake Bleed Sequence - used to view a description of
the correct sequence for bleeding a vehicle’s brakes.
(See page 54.)

Note: Before performing the procedures in this chapter, follow the instructions in “Chapter 2: Start-up Steps” on
page 13.

Figure 7.1: Diagnostic Menu Screen and Pathfinder Screen

1

From the Diagnostic Menu screen, select Pathfinder and
press the ENTER key. This displays the Pathfinder
screen.

2

From the Pathfinder screen, select Repair Trac and
press the ENTER key. This displays the Repair Trac
screen for the vehicle (see Figure 7.2 on page 48).

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Fast Fixes

Fast Fixes
The Fast Fixes option lets you access the Fast Fixes
software from within the ABS / Air Bag software. The
Fast Fixes software contains vehicle-specific repair
solutions for many “likely” or “overlooked” causes of
component problems.
Note: You can also access the Fast Fixes software from the
NGIS tool’s Application Manager main menu or the Repair
Information menu, depending on the system version in the
tool. If you do this, you will need to enter the vehicle information again.

Figure 7.2: Repair Trac Symptoms Screen

3

From the list of symptoms, select a symptom to view
and press the ENTER key. This displays the Repair Trac
Problems and Fixes screen.

Figure 7.4: Diagnostic Menu Screen and Pathfinder Screen

Figure 7.3: Repair Trac Problems and Fixes Screen

Note: The RT (Repair Trac) Code on this screen is a software
code only. It is not a part of any diagnostic trouble code (DTC).
4

View the description and print it, if necessary. For printing
information, refer to “Print” on page 26.

5

When finished, use the EXIT key to return to previous
screens.

1

From the Diagnostic Menu screen, select Pathfinder and
press the ENTER key. This displays the Pathfinder
screen.

2

From the Pathfinder screen, select Fast Fixes and press
the ENTER key. This displays the Fast Fix Select Category screen for the vehicle (see Figure 7.2 on page 48).

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 7: Pathfinder
Fast Fixes

Figure 7.7: Fast Fix Select Component Screen
Figure 7.5: Fast Fix Select Category Screen

5
3

From the list of categories, select a category to view and
press the ENTER key. This displays the Fast Fix Select
Symptom screen.

From the list of components, select a component to
view and press the ENTER key. This displays the Fast
Fix symptoms and possible problems screen.

Figure 7.8: Fast Fix Symptoms and Possible Problems Screen
Figure 7.6: Fast Fix Select Symptom Screen

4

From the list of symptoms, select a symptom (cause) to
view and press the ENTER key. This displays the Fast
Fix Select Component screen.

6

View the description and print it, if necessary. For printing
information, refer to “Print” on page 26.

7

When finished, use the EXIT key to return to previous
screens.

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TSB References

TSB References
The TSB References option lets you look up the numbers and titles of technical service bulletins for a
vehicle.
To view the TSB references, follow these steps:

Figure 7.10: TSB References Screen

3

From the list of TSBs, select a TSB to view and press
the ENTER key. This displays a brief description of the
TSB.

Figure 7.9: Diagnostic Menu Screen and Pathfinder Screen

1

From the Diagnostic Menu screen, select Pathfinder and
press the ENTER key. This displays the Pathfinder
screen.

2

From the Pathfinder screen, select TSB References and
press the ENTER key. This displays the TSB References
screen.

Figure 7.11: TSB Reference Screen

4

View the description and print it, if necessary. For printing
information, refer to “Print” on page 26.

5

When finished, use the EXIT key to return to previous
screens.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 7: Pathfinder
Specifications

Specifications
The Specifications option lets you view tune-up,
engine, and system specifications for a vehicle.
To view the vehicle specifications, follow these steps:

Figure 7.13: Specifications Screen

Figure 7.12: Diagnostic Menu Screen and Pathfinder Screen

1

From the Diagnostic Menu screen, select Pathfinder and
press the ENTER key. This displays the Pathfinder
screen.

2

Select Specifications and press the ENTER key. This
displays the Specifications screen.

3

View the specifications and print them, if necessary. For
printing information, refer to “Print” on page 26.

4

When finished, use the EXIT key to return to previous
screens.

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Component Location

Component Location
The Component Location option lets you view a
description of the computer and connector locations for
a vehicle.
To view the component locations, follow these steps:

Figure 7.15: Connector Location Screen

Figure 7.14: Diagnostic Menu Screen, Pathfinder Screen, and
Component Location Screen

1

From the Diagnostic Menu screen, select Pathfinder and
press the ENTER key. This displays the Pathfinder
screen.

2

Select Component Location and press the ENTER key.
This displays the Component Location screen.

3

Do one of the following:

•

Select Connector Location and press the ENTER
key to view a description of where the vehicle’s data
link connector (DLC) is located. This displays the Connector Location screen (see Figure 7.15).

•

Select Computer Location and press the ENTER
key to view a description of where the vehicle’s electronic control unit (ECU) is located. This displays the
Connector Location screen (see Figure 7.16).

•

Select Fuse Box Location and press the ENTER key
to view a description of where the vehicle’s fuse
box(es) are located. This displays the Connector
Location screen (not shown).

Figure 7.16: Computer Location Screen

4

View the description and print it, if necessary. For printing
information, refer to “Print” on page 26.

5

When finished, use the EXIT key to return to previous
screens.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 7: Pathfinder
Brake Bleed Procedure

Brake Bleed Procedure
The Brake Bleed Procedure option lets you view
instructions for bleeding a vehicle’s brakes.
To view the brake bleed procedure, follow these steps:

Figure 7.18: Manual Bleed Procedure Screen

Figure 7.17: Diagnostic Menu Screen, Pathfinder Screen, and Brake
Bleed Procedure Screen

1

From the Diagnostic Menu screen, select Pathfinder and
press the ENTER key. This displays the Pathfinder
screen.

2

Select Brake Bleed Procedure and press the ENTER
key. This displays the Brake Bleed Procedure screen.

3

Select either Manual Bleed or Pressure Bleed and press
the ENTER key. This displays either the Manual Bleed
Procedure screen (see Figure 7.18) or the Pressure
Bleed Procedure screen (see Figure 7.19).

Figure 7.19: Pressure Bleed Procedure Screen

4

View the procedure and print it, if necessary. For printing
information, refer to “Print” on page 26.

5

When finished, use the EXIT key to return to previous
screens.

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Brake Bleed Sequence

Brake Bleed Sequence
The Brake Bleed Sequence option lets you view a
description of the correct sequence for bleeding a vehicle’s brakes.
To view the brake bleed sequence, follow these steps:

Figure 7.21: Brake Bleed Sequence Screen

Figure 7.20: Diagnostic Menu Screen and Pathfinder Screen

1

From the Diagnostic Menu screen, select Pathfinder and
press the ENTER key. This displays the Pathfinder
screen.

2

Select Brake Bleed Sequence and press the ENTER
key. This displays the Brake Bleed Sequence screen.

3

View the description and print it, if necessary. For printing
information, refer to “Print” on page 26.

4

When finished, use the EXIT key to return to previous
screens.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 8: Vehicle Info
Specifications

8: Vehicle Info
The Vehicle Info function lets you view vehicle-specific
information. This chapter includes procedures for using
the following Vehicle Info functions:
•

Specifications - used to view brake and ABS specifications for a vehicle. (See the steps below.)

•

Related TSBs - used to view numbers and titles of technical service bulletins that apply to a vehicle.
(See page 56.)

•

System Type - used to view the description of the vehicle
being tested. (See page 57.)

•

PROM Identification - for some GM vehicles, used to
view PROM information. (See page 58.)

1

From the Diagnostic Menu screen, select Vehicle Info
and press the ENTER key. This displays the Vehicle Info
screen.

2

Select Specifications and press the ENTER key.
This displays the Specifications screen.

Note: Before performing the procedures in this chapter, follow the instructions in “Chapter 2: Start-up Steps” on
page 13.

Specifications
The Specifications option lets you view brake and ABS
specifications.
To view the vehicle specifications, follow these steps:

Figure 8.1: Diagnostic Menu Screen and Vehicle Info Screen

Figure 8.2: Specifications Screen

3

View the specifications and print them, if necessary.
For printing information, refer to “Print” on page 26.

4

When finished, use the EXIT key to return to previous
screens.

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Related TSBs

Related TSBs
The Related TSBs option lets you look up the numbers
and titles of technical service bulletins.
To view the related TSBs, follow these steps:

Figure 8.4: TSB References Screen

3

Select a TSB to view and press the ENTER key. This displays a brief description of the TSB.

Figure 8.3: Diagnostic Menu Screen and Vehicle Info Screen

1

From the Diagnostic Menu screen, select Vehicle Info
and press the ENTER key. This displays the Vehicle Info
screen.

2

Select Related TSBs and press the ENTER key. This displays the TSB References screen.

Figure 8.5: TSB Reference Screen

4

View the description and print it, if necessary. For printing
information, refer to “Print” on page 26.

5

When finished, use the EXIT key to return to previous
screens.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 8: Vehicle Info
System Type

System Type
The System Type option lets you view the vehicle
description.
To view the system type, follow these steps:

Figure 8.7: System Information Screen

Figure 8.6: Diagnostic Menu Screen and Vehicle Info Screen

1

From the Diagnostic Menu screen, select Vehicle Info
and press the ENTER key. This displays the Vehicle Info
screen.

2

Select System Type and press the ENTER key. This
displays the System Information screen.

3

View the information and print it, if necessary. For printing
information, refer to “Print” on page 26.

4

When finished, use the EXIT key to return to previous
screens.

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PROM Identification

PROM Identification
The PROM Identification option, which is available
for some GM vehicles, lets you view the Programmable
Read Only Memory (PROM) 4-digit identification number and additional PROM related information.
To view PROM information, follow these steps:

Figure 8.8: Diagnostic Menu Screen and Vehicle Info Screen

1

From the Diagnostic Menu screen, select Vehicle Info
and press the ENTER key. This displays the Vehicle Info
screen.

2

Select PROM Identification and press the ENTER key.
This displays the PROM Identification screen.

3

View the information and print it, if necessary. For printing
information, refer to“Print” on page 26.

4

When finished, use the EXIT key to return to previous
screens.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 9: Controller ID

9: Controller ID
The Controller ID function displays identification
information about the selected ECU (Audi and
Volkswagen).
Note: Before performing the test steps, follow the instructions in “Chapter 2: Start-up Steps” on page 13.
To display the Controller ID information, follow these
steps:

Figure 9.2: ECU Identification Screen

Figure 9.1: Diagnostic Menu Screen

1

Select Controller ID and press the ENTER key.
This displays the ECU Identification Data screen.

2

View the data.

3

When finished, use the EXIT key to return to previous
screens.

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ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 10: Special Tests
Basic Special Test Procedure

10: Special Tests
The Special Tests function lets you perform special
bi-directional diagnostic tests on anti-lock brake systems (ABS) and air bags. The tests let you use the
NGIS tool to activate or control the system
components.
Note: During a test, you use the tool to temporarily control a
selected component. When you exit the test, the component
returns to the normal setting.

This chapter includes a basic procedure for doing the
special tests, brief descriptions of the special tests, and
examples of common special test screens.

Basic Special Test Procedure
The special tests vary for each vehicle, year, and
component (ABS, Air Bag, etc.). This section provides
basic steps for the special tests.
To perform special tests on a vehicle, follow these
steps:
1

Perform the steps in “Chapter 2: Start-up Steps” to enter
the vehicle information and display the Diagnostic Menu
screen.

Note: While performing a special test, a Fault Code Detected
screen may appear indicating a fault exists. Repair the problem and clear the diagnostic test code(s) before continuing
the special test. For details about clearing codes, refer to
“Chapter 5: Diagnostic Codes (Read / Clear Codes)”.
Note: The ABS Air Bag 2004 software has an automatic
Diagnostic Code Triggered Record function. If a diagnostic
fault occurs while you are testing a vehicle, the software automatically alerts you with a screen message and creates a
recording for playback. To replay these recordings, refer to
“Playback a Data File” on page 21.

WARNING:
Before performing any tests, refer to the Safety Precautions and instructions provided in this User
Guide and the warnings provided by the vehicle
manufacturer. In addition, follow any warnings and
descriptions provided on the NGIS tool screens.

WARNING:
During active testing, bi-directional component
activation is automatically “inhibited” when
required to allow brake components adequate time
to cool down. Do not bypass this cool-down period
by restarting the test or by using any other means
of bypassing the cool-down period.

Figure 10.1: Diagnostic Menu Screen

2

From the Diagnostic Menu screen, select Special Tests.
This displays the Special Tests menu screen (Figure 10.2
on page 62).
Note: If an identification screen appears, review the
screen and press the ENTER key to display the Special
Tests menu screen.

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Special Test Descriptions

Special Test Descriptions
This section includes brief descriptions of many of the
special tests. Actual tests vary by vehicle manufacturer, year, make, component, etc. For complete test
instructions and specifications, refer to the vehicle
service manual for the vehicle being tested.

ABS Manual Control Tests
Manual Control Tests let you use the NGIS tool to manually control the actuators in order to test the following:
ABS motors, solenoids, solenoid enable relays, EMBs,
and more.
Figure 10.2: Special Tests Menu Screen

Note: The screen shown above is only an example.
Actual screens vary by vehicle and component.
3

From the Special Tests menu screen, select the test you
want to perform and press the ENTER key.

4

A group selection screen, test selection screen, several
step-by-step instruction screens, or bi-directional control
screen may appear. Read the screens and follow all
instructions. If necessary, use the function keys to perform commands or answer any questions. Use the
ENTER key as instructed. (See “Special Test Screen
Examples” on page 65.)

5

When finished, use the EXIT key to return to previous
screens.

You can confirm proper operation by comparing what
you command with the NGIS tool to what the ECU sees
as a response and to what the actual output is at the
component.

ABS Motor Test
The Motor Test lets you use the NGIS tool to manually
control the ABS pump motor. For some vehicles, the
NGIS tool runs the test automatically; for other vehicles, the tool displays instructional screens for you to
perform the test manually.

ABS Version Test
The ABS Version test displays the name of the brake
system and the ABS controller version number, software ID, and sequence value.

Actuator Tests
The Actuator Tests let you use the NGIS tool to manually control the actuators in order to test the following:
AYC valves, inlet valves, outlet valves, pump motors,
TRACS valves.
You can confirm proper operation by comparing what
you command with the NGIS tool to what the ECU sees
as a response and to what the actual output is at the
component.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 10: Special Tests
Special Test Descriptions

Autobleed Test, Automated Bleed, or
Service Bleed
The bleed tests remove air from the internal brake fluid
chambers after servicing the brakes. For some vehicles, the NGIS tool runs the test automatically; for other
vehicles, the tool displays instructional screens for you
to perform the test manually.
The test usually cycles the valve solenoids so you can
use brake pedal feel to diagnose solenoid problems,
pump output problems, and pedal feel complaints. The
final phase of the test releases brake pressure from
each hydraulic channel in sequence, allowing you to
identify pedal travel problems, solenoid leakage, or
internal problems.
IMPORTANT:
• Before bleeding the brake system, make sure no diag-

Function Test
The Function Test automatically commands the ABS
relay, valve solenoids, and pump motor on and off to
test for proper operation. If there is a malfunction, a
diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is set in the vehicle.

Gear Tension Relief Test
The Gear Tension Relief Test relieves tension from the
ABS motor gears so you can separate the ABS motor
pack from the ABS hydraulic modulator.
For some vehicles, the NGIS tool runs the test automatically; for other vehicles, the tool displays
instructional screens for you to perform the test
manually.

nostic codes are present.

Hydraulic Control Tests

•

Do not let the master cylinder run dry during the brake
bleeding procedure.

•

Do not allow brake fluid to contact the motor pack or
the electrical connectors.

The Hydraulic Control Tests let you use the NGIS tool
to manually engage and disengage the ABS solenoids
for troubleshooting the hydraulic functions.

IMPORTANT: Use a recommended brake fluid,
do not use silicone brake fluids in an ABSequipped vehicle.
WARNING: After bleeding the brake system,
check the brake pedal for excessive travel or a
“spongy” feel. Bleed again if either condition is
present.

Idle Up Manual Control Test
The Idle Up Tests let you use the NGIS tool to manually
control the idle up actuators.

Lamp Tests
The Lamp Tests lets you use the NGIS tool to manually
control the ABS or TCS warning or indicator lamps.

Automated Test

Manual Control Test

The Automated Test automatically commands each
solenoid valve and the pump motor on and off to test
for proper operation. If there is a malfunction, a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is set in the vehicle.

See “ABS Manual Control Tests” on page 62.

Brake Bleed Preparation Test
The Brake Bleed Preparation Test prepares the brake
lines for bleeding by clearing air from the modulator.
The test rehomes all the ABS and TCS motors, cycles
the TCS motors, and then returns all motors to the
“home” position at the bottom of the bore.
Usually, the tool displays instructional screens for you
to perform the test manually

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ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide
Special Test Descriptions

Motor Rehome Test
The Motor Rehome Test prepares the brake lines for
bleeding by clearing air from the modulator. The test
returns all ABS motors to their “home” positions.
For some vehicles, the NGIS tool runs the test automatically; for other vehicles, the tool displays
instructional screens for you to perform the test
manually.

Setup SDM Serial Number (Air Bag
Sensing and Diagnostic Module)
The Setup SDM Serial Number in DIM test lets you
program a new air bag serial number into the dash integration module (DIM). You use this test after installing
a new air bag; otherwise a diagnostic trouble code will
be set when you turn on the ignition.
The tool displays instructional screens for you to perform the test manually

IMPORTANT:
• Before rehoming the brake system, make sure no
diagnostic codes are present.

•

Do not let the master cylinder run dry during the
rehoming or brake bleeding procedures.

•

Do not allow brake fluid to contact the motor pack or
the electrical connectors.

IMPORTANT: Use a recommended brake fluid,
do not use silicone brake fluids in an ABSequipped vehicle.
WARNING: After bleeding the brake system,
check the brake pedal for excessive travel or a
“spongy” feel. Bleed again if either condition is
present.

Solenoid Tests
The Solenoid Tests let you use the NGIS tool to manually control the inlet and output valve solenoids.
You can confirm proper operation by comparing what
you command with the NGIS tool to what the ECU sees
as a response and to what the actual output is at the
solenoid.

System Identification
The System Identification test displays information
about the brake system, the vehicle, and the ABS
controller.

Pump Motor Tests

TCS Test

The Pump Motor Tests lets you use the NGIS tool to
manually control the pump motor. For some vehicles,
the NGIS tool runs the test automatically; for other vehicles, the tool displays instructional screens for you to
perform the test manually.

The TCS test lets you use the NGIS tool to control the
pump motor in order to apply fluid pressure to the front
wheel circuits.

Relay Test
The Relay Test lets you use the NGIS tool to manually
engage and disengage either the ABS or TCS relays
in order to test relay operation.

Requested Torque Test
The Requested Torque Test lets you use the NGIS tool
to manually control the engine torque to test for proper
operation of the traction control system (TCS).

Traction Control System (TCS)
Manual Control Tests
The TCS Manual Control Tests let you use the NGIS
tool to perform motor tests and an adjuster assembly
control test.You can confirm proper operation by comparing what you command with the NGIS tool to what
the ECU sees as a response and to what the actual output is at the component.

Voltage Load Test
The Voltage Load Test “loads” the ABS battery supply
circuit to test for adequate battery capacity.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 10: Special Tests
Special Test Screen Examples

Special Test Screen Examples

Bi-directional Control Screen Examples

There are two basic types of special test screens:
instructional and bi-directional control.

The bi-directional control screens vary in appearance,
but they all allow you to manually control the vehicle’s
relays, solenoids, lamps, and other components.

Instructional Screen Example

Basic Single Component Control Screen

Instructional screens contain step-by-step instructions
for performing a special test. You simply follow the
instructions provided on each screen.

The following screen is the basic manual control screen
for a single component. You press the Start function
key to begin and then use the On and Off function keys
to control the component.

1

2

3
4
Figure 10.4: Single Component Control Screen Example
Figure 10.3: Instructional Screen Example

Item 1 This area displays the command you have issued
through the scan tool (On, Off).
Item 2 This area displays the state of the component being
read by the ECU. The bottom of this area may also
contain special test instructions.
Item 3 The status line displays the current status of the test.
Item 4 The function keys let you manually control the
component as necessary. Compare what is
commanded by the NGIS tool to the state of the
component being read by the ECU to the actual
physical state of the component.

65

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ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide
Special Test Screen Examples

Basic Multiple Component Control Screen

Solenoid, Relay Controls Screen

The following screen is the basic manual control screen
for multiple components. This screen allows control of
more than one component and has a More function key
menu for performing additional functions. You select a
component and then press the Start function key to
begin. You then use the On and Off function keys to
control the selected component.

The following screen is the basic manual control screen
for a solenoid and enable relay. You press the Start
function key to begin (when you press Start, the key
name changes to Exit). You then use the Solenoid and
Relay function keys to control the components.

1
1
2
2

3
4
3
Figure 10.6: Solenoid, Relay Controls Screen Example

4

5
Figure 10.5: Multiple Component Control Screen Example

Item 1 This area displays the command you have issued
through the scan tool (On, Off).
Item 2 This area displays the list of components you can
control along with the state of each component being
read by the ECU.
Item 3 The status line displays the current status of the test.
Item 4 The function keys let you manually control the
component as necessary. Compare what is
commanded by the NGIS tool to the state of the
component being read by the ECU to the actual
physical state of the component.
Item 5 The More menu contains basic Datastream
functions. For details, refer to “Datastream
Functions” on page 20.

Item 1 This area displays the commands you have issued
through the scan tool (On, Off).
Item 2 This area displays the states of the components
being read by the ECU. The bottom of this area may
also contain special test instructions.
Item 3 The status line displays the current status of the test.
Item 4 The function keys let you manually control the
component as necessary. Compare what is
commanded by the NGIS tool to the state of the
component being read by the ECU to the actual
physical state of the component.

ABS / Air Bag 2004 User Guide

Chapter 10: Special Tests
Special Test Screen Examples

Automatic Test Screen

Activate/Deactivate Screen

The following screen is an example of an automatic test
screen.You press the Start function key to begin the
automatic test.

The following screen is an example of a manual control
screen with a toggle Activate/Deactivate function key.
You use this function key to begin the test.

1
1
2

2

2

3
4

3

5

4

Figure 10.7: Automatic Test Screen Example

Figure 10.8: Activate/Deactivate Screen Example

Item 1 This area displays the state of the test commands
being issued by the scan tool (On, Off).

Item 1 This area displays the name of the component being
tested.

Item 2 This area displays each component. As the test
runs, the brackets around the dots indicate the
component(s) currently being tested.

Item 2 This area displays the state of the component.

Note: The bracket on the left side of the dot represents the command and the bracket on the right side
represents the feedback. If one of the brackets is
missing during the test, it indicates a problem.
Item 3 This area may display special test instructions.
Item 4 The status line displays the current status of the test.
Item 5 The Start function key starts the test.

Item 3 This area shows the time clock for the test.
Item 4 The function keys let you manually control the
component as necessary. Compare what is
commanded by the NGIS tool to the state of the
component being read by the ECU to the actual
physical state of the component.
Note: Press the Activate function key to turn on the
component. This changes the component state to
“On” and changes the function key to “Deactivate”.
Press the Deactivate function key to turn off the
component.

67

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This page is intentionally blank

SPX Corporation Limited Warranty
THIS WARRANTY IS EXPRESSLY LIMITED TO ORIGINAL RETAIL BUYERS OF SPX
ELECTRONIC DIAGNOSTIC TOOLS (“UNITS”).
SPX Units are warranted against defects in materials and workmanship for three years (36 months) from date of
delivery. This warranty does not cover any Unit that has been abused, altered, used for a purpose other than that
for which it was intended, or used in a manner inconsistent with instructions regarding use. The sole and exclusive
remedy for any Unit found to be defective is repair or replacement, at the option of SPX. In no event shall SPX be
liable for any direct, indirect, special, incidental or consequential damages (including lost profit) whether based
on warranty, contract, tort or any other legal theory. The existence of a defect shall be determined by SPX in accordance with procedures established by SPX. No one is authorized to make any statement or representation altering
the terms of this warranty.

DISCLAIMER
THE ABOVE WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ANY OTHER WARRANTY, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING
ANY WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.

SOFTWARE
Unit software is proprietary, confidential information protected under copyright law. Users have no right in or
title to Unit software other than a limited right of use revocable by SPX. Unit software may not be transferred
or disclosed without the written consent of SPX. Unit software may not be copied except in ordinary backup
procedures.

ORDER INFORMATION
Replacement and optional parts can be ordered directly from your SPX authorized tool supplier.
Your order should include the following information:
• quantity
• part number
• item description

Technical Service
If you have any questions about the operation of the product, please call (800) 533-6127.

Repair Service
When sending your SPX electronic product in for repair, please include the following information:
• company name
• contact name
• telephone number
• description of the problem
• proof-of-purchase for warranty repairs
• preferred method of payment for non-warranty repairs
For non-warranty repairs, payment can be made with Visa, Master Card, or with approved credit terms.
To receive a credit application, please fax your request to the Credit Department at 800-962-8734.
Send the unit to:
SPX Service Solutions
2300 Park Drive
PO Box 994
Owatonna, MN 55060-0994
RGA: Repair Dept.

2005 SPX Corporation. All rights reserved
06/14/05 Part Number 531371



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