Scan Tool Setup and Functionality: Notes
WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 32 other vehicles, including the 2008 Mercury Sable, 2008 Mercury Mountaineer, 2008 Mercury Milan, 2008 Mercury Mariner, and 2008 Mercury Grand Marquis. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Connect the scan tool to the data link connector (DLC) for communication with the vehicle.
The DLC is located in the driver side compartment under the steering column. It is attached to the instrument panel and accessible from the driver seat.
The DLC is rectangular in design and capable of accommodating up to 16 terminals. The connector has keying features to allow easy connection.
The required scan tool functions are described below:
- monitor, record, and playback of parameter identification (PIDs)
- freeze frame PID data
- diagnostic test modes; self-test, clear diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
- output test mode
- resetting keep alive memory (KAM)
- diagnostic monitoring test results (mode 6) for on board diagnostic (OBD) on board monitors
- on-board system readiness (OBD monitor completion status)
Some of these functions are described. Refer to the scan tool manufacturer's instruction article for specific information on scan tool setup and operation.