Code Reader Podcast: Clearing DTCs & Readiness Monitors

Code Reader Podcast: Clearing DTCs & Readiness Monitors

TechShop discusses the relationship between clearing DTCs and readiness monitors.

When it comes to the subject of readiness monitors, there’s a fine line between the simplicity and complexity of it. To start with, one of the many jobs of the PCM or ECM in a vehicle is to monitor all of the emission related systems, store data that can be referenced when any given system is not working properly, and naturally store a trouble code if a problem is detected.

Due to the importance of vehicle emission systems, these monitors are in place as a proactive means of checking them. Instead of waiting for an indication that a system is not working as efficiently as it should, they are a way for the control unit to initiate a self-check to look at or “monitor” their operation. They are basically the “micro-manager” of the automotive PCM.

There are two different types of monitors, continuous and non-continuous. Continuous monitors are checking systems that allow for immediate results, in other words they perform the check so quickly that they will indicate “ready” or “complete” on your scan tool at all times. If a problem occurs, the control unit will recognize it right away and potentially store a trouble code.

Non-continuous monitors are named as they are because they need a number of different conditions to be met before they are considered complete.

You can subscribe to “TechShop: The Code Reader” podcast through your favorite podcast apps, including Apple PodcastsGoogle PodcastsSpotify and Stitcher.

You May Also Like

TechShop Podcast: Torx Bits

Ever wonder why there are different kinds of Torx bits, and if there’s a reason for it? TechShop’s Eric Garbe explains in this latest podcast.

TechShop podcast logo fi

Ever wonder why there are different kinds of Torx bits, and if there's a reason for it? TechShop's Eric Garbe explains.

Listen to "On the Tool Truck" on Spreaker.

To read about Torx bits, click HERE for our On The Tool Truck article.

Code Reader Podcast: P2422

DTC P2422, an unusual cause and help from a Honda technical service bulletin.

Code Reader Podcast: P00C6 & P228C

Were loose PCM connections the cause of trouble codes P00C6 and P228C?

Code Reader Podcast: P0420 & P0430

This TSB was released by General Motors, covering most of their large SUV’s and vans that have been produced from 2002 and up. The related DTCs that a technician may find are P0420 and P0430, Catalyst Efficiency Below Threshold.

Code Reader Podcast: P0300

A Technical Service Bulletin identifies an unusual cause for a common code.

Other Posts

TPMS: Are Retrofits in Your Future?

Installing a retrofit kit can be performed with the tools and equipment you already own and use on a daily basis.

Tire tread
Maximize Your Scan Tool

Are you maximizing your scan tools to their full potential? Don’t let them be just an expensive code reader.

Scan Tool
Upgrade Your Air System: It’s Easier Than You Think

Improving your shop airflow is only a benefit, unless you like to spend more time, work harder and make less money.

air flow tubes
Utilizing Fully Automatic A/C Equipment on Today’s Cars

As technology evolves, fully automatic A/C equipment becomes a greater necessity.

A/C knob