AFTERMARKET SCAN TOOL: A scan tool that is developed and marketed outside of an OEM dealer network. Aftermarket scan tools can vary from basic DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) readers to highly complex and specialized diagnostic routines, including coding, programming, initialization and calibration. Scan tool functionality/capability is dependent on the software packages developed by the tool manufacturer.

APPLICATION BASED SCAN TOOL (SOFTWARE WITH COMMUNICATION INTERFACE): A laptop, PC, or tablet-based software package that utilizes the computing resources of the device and is connected to a vehicle via a USB, Bluetooth, or Wi- Fi Vehicle Communication Interface (VCI) to the vehicle diagnostic Data Link Connector (DLC). Both OEM and aftermarket scan tools can be available in this configuration. Functionality/capability is dependent on the software provider. OEM software packages will offer all the functionality/capability that the service engineering groups deem necessary to properly diagnose and repair their vehicles. Updates are provided on an OEM-determined release schedule for both updated capabilities and software bug fixes. Aftermarket software provider coverage and support will depend on the developers release schedules.

AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING: Detects potential collisions with a vehicle ahead, provides forward collision warning, and automatically brakes to avoid a collision or lessen the severity of impact. Some systems also detect pedestrians or other objects.

 

AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY STEERING: Detects potential collisions with a vehicle ahead and automatically steers to avoid or lessen the severity of impact. Some systems also detect pedestrians or other objects.

AUTOMATIC HIGH BEAMS: Switches between high and low beam headlamps automatically based on lighting and traffic.

BACKUP CAMERA: Displays the area behind the vehicle when in reverse gear.

BATTERY SUPPORT: A suitable battery voltage/programming power supply should be connected to the vehicle battery while the ignition is in Key ON Engine Off (KOEO) mode. Due to varying voltage and amperage requirements from the vehicle networks, a conventional battery charger or battery “jump box” are not recommended for any ECU programming events to help eliminate voltage-related programming failures. Most manufacturers recommend power supply levels between 13.2-13.8V DC while in a programming session. Some European manufacturers require voltages over 14.0V DC to successfully complete a programming session. A conventional battery charger can introduce voltage fluctuations and/or may have AC voltage ripple that can affect the communication lines from the vehicle to the application software. Such conditions can prevent the programming event from successfully completing and possibly render the ECU permanently inoperative. A battery “jump box” provides a steady voltage level but is generally too low to meet the OEM minimum voltage requirements. NOTE: Refer to Service manual for Hybrid and electric vehicle procedures on battery support.

BUILD DATA: A list of option codes from the OEM identifying all the options/systems that are installed on a specific vehicle. Many vehicles have an attached decal (glove box, spare tire well, etc.) that list the build data; most manufacturers offer that data at their OEM service websites, and it is retrieved by submitting the VIN.

CAN (CONTROLLER AREA NETWORK): CAN is a vehicle communication protocol that has been replacing older legacy protocols on vehicles for diagnostics and module to module communications since model year 2003 in North American vehicles. CAN has two potential wiring configurations, and multiple baud rate options depending on how the OEM implements the network architecture. High-Speed CAN (HSCAN) and Medium-Speed CAN (MSCAN) use 2-wire, twisted pair bus configurations. Single Wire CAN (SWCAN) uses a single line for bus communication. As of model year 2008, all vehicles sold in the US are required to implement HSCAN for their Powertrain communications to comply with EPA/CARB regulations. This network is wired to SAE J1962 Data Link Connector (DLC) pins 6 & 14. There can also be additional HSCAN, MSCAN and/or SWCAN networks wired to the SAEJ1962 DLC, including pins 1, 3, 9, 11, 12 & 13, depending on the OEM network topology implementation. Always refer to the OEM Service Information for vehicle-specific network wiring schematics.

CALIBRATION: Calibration is a software “learn” or “re-learn” procedure for a vehicle system or component, typically performed with a scan tool using appropriate software. Examples could be ADAS radar, windshield/surround cameras, window regulators, brake pedal position, steering angle and HVAC actuators. Performing a calibration is not programming as those two terms are typically used in the automotive repair environment. A calibration needs to be performed whenever the OEM service information indicates it is necessary as part of a repair procedure, regardless of whether a component was replaced. In many cases, a battery disconnect can be enough to require calibrations to be performed. If a module or component was replaced, module programming may need to be done prior to the calibration procedure.

CHASSIS GEOMETRIC CENTERLINE: Reference- SAE J3262 DEC2023
A line that intersects the center of the rear axle and center of the front axle.

CODING: Coding is a configuration string that must be entered into a module or component using a compatible scan tool to allow that part to operate with the rest of the vehicle systems. This is similar to a calibration or module set up but does not transfer programming files or operating software. Coding values typically enable or disable functions within an ECU to match the option configuration of the vehicle. Some OEMs may call it “As-Built”. In many cases the coding values can be retrieved from the old component using a compatible scan tool and then transferred into the new component. If the coding values have not been recorded from the original module, they will normally have to be obtained from the manufacturer or scan tool provider (technical support or website).

CONDITIONAL MONITORING: Each of the emission-based Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) have an enable criteria that must be met before the Powertrain Computer Module (PCM) runs its diagnostic sequence. DTCs that have dependencies on other DTCs being set or not set are referred to as Conditional. The OEM Service Information is required to understand the enable criteria for each DTC and to properly troubleshoot and correct. NOTE: Monitoring criteria is a Legislated OBDII emission control requirement.

CONTINUOUS MONITORING: Continuous Monitoring DTCs have enable criteria that are active anytime the vehicle is running and will illuminate the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) whenever a failure is detected. Misfire detection is a typical system test that runs continuously to alert the driver of any potential catalyst-damaging conditions. NOTE: Monitoring criteria is a Legislated OBDII emission control requirement

CYBER FINGERPRINT: A virtual roadmap of the repair performed on the vehicle, triggered by DTCs set during the process of disconnecting sensors, lights, modules, wiring and other related diagnostic, electronic and computer related parts, including the disconnection of the battery. These DTCs are either resulting from or created during the normal course of performing the required repair operations and are not necessarily related to the Pre-Scan or Post-Scan results. These DTCs should be documented before a Post-scan is performed, because once cleared, they will not return if the conditions that were present to set them are no longer current.

DATA LINK CONNECTOR (DLC) aka OBDII CONNECTOR: A standard 16-pin data link connector, known as the SAE J1962 connector, located under the dash on the driver’s side on all model year 1996 and newer vehicles sold in North America.  Seven of the pin assignments are mandatory by SAE/CARB, and 9 are given manufacturer discretion to wire additional networks outside of the required Legislated OBDII protocols. Any vehicle which is OBDII-compliant must have its Powertrain system wired to the J1962 connector.  Non-Powertrain systems can be wired to the J1962 connector or the manufacturer can use an alternate connector. Most vehicle platforms after model year 2005 will have all their networked bussed ECUs connected to the J1962 connector to facilitate scan tool connectivity.DIAGNOSTICS: The process of determining problems associated with DTCs, scan data or symptoms identified to determine what repairs, calibrations or parts will be necessary for a complete and safe repair. Process may also include service information research, on-vehicle pin-point testing, and inspecting systems or components in damaged areas.

DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC): Diagnostic Trouble Codes are set when a diagnostic routine fails for a component, system or inter-module communication.  DTCs are normally retrieved with a compatible scan tool but can also sometimes be accessed through infotainment/instrument cluster procedures.  Each DTC has a predefined enable criteria that must be met for the diagnostic routine to run, and the DTC is set when something in the diagnostic routine fails.  Service Information is required to obtain the proper enable criteria to identify and troubleshoot the root cause. DTCs are grouped in the following categories: P-Series (Powertrain), C-Series (Chassis), B-Series (Body), U-Series (Network).  DTCs will typically be 5 characters, with the first character denoting the series and characters 2-5 further identifying the system and specific faults. Most modern vehicles also use a 2 character “symptom byte” in addition to the 5-character DTC, to help further define the type of DTC.  Some OEMs also use their own descriptors in addition to the SAE standardized formatting. All DTCs should be cleared from the vehicle and a road test completed before delivery back to a vehicle owner. Refer to the service information to identify the enable criteria so the road test properly runs the diagnostic routines.  Some DTCs may need up to 3 drive cycles to complete the diagnostic routines. DTCs that do not clear normally indicate that additional diagnostic procedures and repairs are needed (see Hard Code). The absence of a Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL or dash warning light) is not an indication that no fault codes are present, as many DTCs do not illuminate any lights or warning messages on the instrument cluster. A network scan must be performed using a compatible scan tool to confirm that DTCs are cleared and there are no Pending DTCs.

DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE DESCRIPTOR:  A text explanation of a DTC, which provides the technician or estimator a summary of the fault.  Legislated OBDII DTC descriptors are standardized, so all manufacturers use the same terms for the DTC and the summary.   Non-Powertrain enhanced DTCs are not standardized and the OEM can use whatever naming structure they deem appropriate.

DOPPLER SIMULATOR – Reference- SAE J3262 DEC2023
A device that is capable of simulating a Doppler effect to another radar device.

DOT PATTERN TARGETS includes a pattern that consists of a series of dots/backgrounds of contrasting colors.

NOTE: Dot pattern targets should have a defined number of dots, size, and spacing. Dots should have a defined reflectivity and color. Target should have a defined flatness specification. The critical positioning dimensions are roll, pitch, yaw, vertical, and lateral.

DRIVE CYCLE: A vehicle road test to successfully run all the OBDII monitor tests. Each manufacturer provides a guide in their service information on criteria to complete a drive cycle for each vehicle model and model year.  Most Powertrain DTC routines are run during the first drive cycle but may not illuminate the MIL until the PCM sees successive failures (i.e. more than one drive cycle).

DRIVER MONITORING: Observes driver actions to estimate if they are not engaged in the task of driving. Some systems may monitor eye movement and/or head position.

DYNAMIC: driving a vehicle as defined by the OEM to meet specific criteria and conditions

DYNAMIC CALIBRATION PROCEDURE – Reference- SAE J3262 DEC2023
An ADAS sensor calibration procedure that consists of driving the subject vehicle in an environment that includes a set of specified features or objects.

NOTE: Procedures, driving criteria, and environmental features/objects are typically specified by relevant sensor/system manufacturers/providers.

DYNAMIC SYSTEMS VERIFICATION (DSV) ROAD TEST: Performed by trained and qualified shop personnel to identify and confirm performance of the vehicle systems (as described above) plus advanced vehicle features and systems including driver assistance and safety systems such as advanced cruise control and safety restraint systems.

 Back to Top

FAILURE RECORDS:   Enhanced data captures that some OEMs make available to provide additional diagnostic data from the point in time that a DTC is set.  (See Freeze Frame Data). Failure Records are an enhancement to the Legislated Freeze Frame dataset. 

FAULT:  A term to describe something not working on the vehicle as designed. System and circuit faults that are monitored by a module will result in a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) being set.  Faults that set

DTCs may or may not produce a symptom; the existence of DTCs may or may not illuminate a warning lamp in the instrument cluster or Driver Information Center.

FLASH:  A term to describe a specific type of ECU programming, specifically a write/rewrite of FLASH memory in an ECU.  Typically, flash programming will erase and program an entire operating file and may include multiple memory locations within the ECU.  

FLAT PLATE REFLECTOR – Reference- SAE J3262 DEC2023
A flat panel constructed from a material capable of reflecting radar emissions.

NOTE: Flat plate reflector should have a defined size/dimension and flatness specification. The critical positioning dimensions are pitch and yaw.

FREEZE FRAME DATA:  OBDII Mode $02, which is a requirement for all model year 1996 and newer Powertrain ECUs, where the PCM is required to capture a snapshot of the operating Parameter IDs (PIDs) when the first Powertrain DTC failure occurs.  Freeze Frame data can be accessed with any OBDII-compliant scan tool that supports Mode $02. Technicians can utilize this data to help determine the conditions of the initial fault, and to help recreate the fault conditions if the fault is intermittent and not current. The amount of data stored is dependent on the supported PIDs for that vehicle and ECU.  Other ECUs, in addition to Powertrain, may also store Freeze Frame data, but it is not an OBDII requirement. (Also see Failure Record).

FUNCTION CHECK: A task to see if a system or component is working as designed and would be part of a Quality Control (QC) check.

FORWARD COLLISION WARNING: Detects a potential collision with a vehicle ahead and alerts the driver. Some systems also provide alerts for pedestrians or other objects.

GUIDED DIAGNOSTICS:  A process that integrates a traditional scan tool with OEM service information to read DTCs from a vehicle, then provide a troubleshooting path for the technician to follow.  Used extensively by European manufacturers in their OEM scan tools, the technician is required to perform specific testing procedures and sequences to identify the root cause of the fault(s) reported.

HEAD-UP DISPLAY: Projects information relevant to driving into the driver’s forward line of sight.

HANDHELD SCAN TOOL: A scan tool that is self-contained as a single device. It could include embedded software, vehicle communication interface, vehicle connection cables and user controls (keypad, touchscreen etc.)  Specific handheld scan tool capabilities will vary based on the manufacturer and the brands covered.

HARD FAULT: A DTC that has met enable criteria and is failing some portion of its diagnostic routine.  When a hard fault is present, the fault must be located and repaired before the DTC can be cleared or any additional module set up, programming, calibrations etc. can be completed.  The OEM Service Information is required to identify the proper troubleshooting routine.

HEALTH CHECK: See SCAN

HISTORY CODE: A DTC that is not currently active. This is a DTC that was set at some previous key cycle or drive cycle, but no longer is failing its diagnostic routine and has passed the modules subsequent self-check. History DTCs may or may not include freeze frame or failure records associated with the code, depending on the type of DTC and the system reporting it.

INITIALIZATION: A software setup procedure for a vehicle system or component, typically performed with a scan tool with appropriate software.  Examples could be ADAS radar, windshield/surround cameras, window regulators, brake pedal position, steering angle and HVAC actuators.  Initialization is not programming as those two terms are typically used in the automotive repair environment. Initialization needs to be done whenever the OEM service information indicates it is necessary in a repair procedure and is most commonly performed when a component is replaced. If a module or component is replaced, module programming may be necessary prior to initialization. 

INSPECT:  A stage of the diagnostic process where a technician performs a visual survey of a vehicle, system or component to ascertain if there is any noticeable physical damage.

INTERIM SCAN:  A vehicle scan that is performed while a repair is in process, to read/clear any DTCs that may have been set during disassembly/reassembly.  Secondarily, it is used to verify if a replaced component needs to be programmed, coded, initialized or calibrated.

INTERMITTENT FAULT: This type of fault occurs when a system or component does not consistently fail its diagnostic routine.  Examples could be temperature-related failures, poor electrical connections, and other environmental issues.  DTCs may or may not set, depending on the frequency or cause, which makes them generally more difficult to isolate and correct.

J2534-1: An interface standard designed by SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) and mandated by the US EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) for vehicle Powertrain ECU reprogramming, covering all model year 2004 and forward vehicles sold in North America. Its purpose is to create an API (Application Programming Interface) which would be adopted by all vehicle manufacturers, allowing the Independent Aftermarket (IAM) the ability to reprogram Powertrain ECUs without the need for a special dealer-only tool.  J2534-1 has a defined list of communication protocols that must be supported to be fully compliant. Many OEMs added support for non-Powertrain ECUs and expanded coverage for 1996-2003 model years. J2534-1 was used as the communication standard to add support for diagnostics (in addition to ECU programming) and is required for all model year 2018 and forward OEM software applications per the Massachusetts Right-2-Repair legislation signed in 2014.

J2534-2: An extension of J2534-1 and adds additional communication protocols not covered in the original J2534-1 specification.  These additional protocols are normally OEM-specific implementations and are submitted by the OEMs to add additional programming and ECU coverage.  

KEY CYCLE:  The process of changing the ignition state from OFF to RUN and back to OFF or RUN to OFF back to RUN.  Key cycles are used by the ECUs to change diagnostic states and power components ON or OFF.

KEY ON ENGINE OFF (KOEO): An ignition mode where the ignition is in the RUN position, but the engine is not running.  All electrical accessories would be powered up and operational apart from components used in the operation of the engine (fuel injectors, fuel pump, ignition coils, etc.).  Proper care should be exercised in this mode, as the charging system is inoperative, and all powered components will be running off stored battery power. If KOEO mode is used more than a few minutes, a battery maintainer is recommended to prevent discharging the vehicle battery.  To confirm you are in the RUN mode, the MIL will be illuminated on the instrument panel. A hybrid vehicle will be in READY mode.

KEY ON ENGINE RUNNING (KOER): An ignition mode where the ignition is in the RUN position and the motor is running.  All electrical accessories will be powered up, including fuel injectors, fuel pump, ignition coils, etc., and the charging system will be operational.  No external battery maintainer will be required. A hybrid vehicle will be in READY mode, although the engine may not be running based on its charging logic.

LANE DEPARTURE WARNING: Monitors vehicle’s position within the driving lane and alerts driver as the vehicle approaches or crosses lane markers.

LANE KEEPING ASSISTANCE: Provides steering support to assist the driver in preventing the vehicle from departing the lane. Some systems also assist to keep the vehicle centered within the lane.

LATCHED CODE: A DTC that sets in an ECU that cannot be cleared with a manual process, battery reset or a scan tool, and requires replacement of the module. Common uses for these are Supplemental Restraint System (SRS or airbag) ECUs where the module needs to be replaced after a deployment.  This type of DTC is dependent on the manufacturer of the vehicle and the design of the system. A network scan of the vehicle is necessary to determine if a code is latched within a module. OEM service information is required to properly troubleshoot and repair these DTCs.

LIVE DATA: Real-time datasets from an ECU, referred to as Parameter IDs (PIDs), obtained using a scan tool. PIDs can be actual sensor input values, circuit resistance values, sensor outputs, voltages, frequencies, and ECU software and calibration data. 

LOG FILES:  A series of recorded data by the scan tool which logs activities with an ECU or network.  Log files are typically used by technical support personnel and software developers to troubleshoot, bug fix and provide documentation of vehicle communication activities.

MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMPS (MIL) aka WARNING LAMPS, WARNING The official OBDII term for the Check Engine Light and is commanded on by the PCM when a Powertrain fault is detected.  Every vehicle sold from model year 1988 and forward must be equipped with a MIL, and all vehicles model year 1996 forward are subject to the OBDII regulations governing the criteria to illuminate it. Most vehicles have additional warning lamps, which may include SRS (airbag), stability control/ABS, engine temperature, etc., but these are not regulated or required the way the MIL is.  It is common for OBDII compliant vehicles to have DTCs set in various modules and not display any notifications to the driver, and they need to be retrieved with a scan tool to be diagnosed.

NIGHT VISION: Improves forward visibility at night by projecting enhanced images on instrument cluster or head-up display.

OBDII SCAN TOOL: A scan tool that meets the Legislated requirements for Powertrain diagnostics, including the ability to read/clear emissions DTCs, Freeze Frame data, Monitor tests, O2 sensor tests, EVAP performance, catalyst efficiency and misfire detection.  All systems beyond the Legislated OBDII specification is considered Enhanced (Proprietary) non-regulated data or advanced scan tool functions. Body controls, Airbags, Anti-lock brakes, Theft Deterrent system, seat belt data, etc. are non-Powertrain and not covered in OBDII, and are implemented by each OEM in a non-standardized methodology.

OEM SCAN TOOL: A scan tool or scan tool application that is designed and used by an OEM for their franchised dealer network.  These tools are also available to the Independent Aftermarket for purchase and are sold through an OEM approved channel.

OPTICAL TARGETS – Reference- SAE J3262 DEC2023
Physical objects that direct light to lidar systems or visible-spectrum cameras for calibration.

NOTE: Patterns are not limited to only those defined below. The critical positioning dimensions should always be described by target setup procedure. Target setup procedure should specify number of targets used, including relative spacing and positioning between the targets.

OUTPUT TEST: A bi-directional control from a scan tool to activate a component for diagnostic purposes or operational verification.  Examples are controlling components such as headlamps, cooling fans, A/C compressors, wipers, door locks, etc. to verify both the component and the wiring.  

PARKING COLLISION WARNING: Detects objects close to the vehicle during parking maneuvers and notifies he driver.

PENDING CODE:  A DTC type that will not set as current, or active, until it has failed 2 (or 3) consecutive trips.  DTCs that are Type B (two-trip) or Type C (three trip) will show as Pending in the PCM when they fail the 1st trip to alert the technician of a fault but will not command the MIL ON.  Pending DTCs can only be retrieved with a scan tool.

PERMANENT CODE: A DTC that cannot be cleared with a scan tool. Permanent DTCs were introduced in 2009 by the California Air Resource Board (CARB) as an addition to OBDII and are only associated with emissions DTCs (OBDII).  These types of DTCs require the reporting system to rerun the diagnostic routine (with the appropriate enable criteria) to verify that the system has been repaired. A permanent DTC does not mean there is a current fault, only that the system has not passed the internal self-test for that DTC. After a scan tool clear request, if the DTC routine fails the self-test it will move from permanent to current.

PIN-POINT DIAGNOSTICS (ON-VEHICLE TESTING): Procedures necessary to troubleshoot a fault after scan data and/or DTCs are retrieved, and can include visual inspections, circuit testing wiring repairs, and electrical tests with voltmeters or test lamps.  Additional diagnostic and electrical testing skills following service information test procedures must be followed.

3.20 PITCH ANGLE – Reference- SAE J3262 DEC2023
Nominal angular value referenced to rotation about the front or rear axle position axis.

NOTE: Refer to SAE J670, Section 3 for more detail regarding the vehicle coordinate system.

PRE-CALIBRATION RATIONALE – Reference- SAE J3262 DEC2023
The explanation of the technical goals that need to be achieved during the calibration procedure.

NOTE: An understanding of the pre-calibration rationale helps the technician perform the calibration more efficiently.

PRE-SCAN (PRE-REPAIR SCAN, INSPECTION SCAN or HEALTH CHECK): A network health check performed with a scan tool before repairs or disassembly begins.  The Pre-scan allows a technician or estimator to develop a diagnostic roadmap, assess non-visible damage and help identify pre-existing conditions.  Pre-scanning a vehicle is an essential step in documenting the nature of the repair and developing an approved course of repair.

POST-SCAN (POST REPAIR SCAN, COMPLETION SCAN or HEALTH CHECK): A network health check performed with a scan tool after all repairs have been performed and verified.  A Post-scan allows a technician or estimator to confirm all the monitored vehicle systems are operating properly, and there are no pending or current DTCs.  Post-scanning is an integral step in the final QC process before the vehicle is returned to the customer.   

PROGRAMMING: A procedure that must be performed to any replacement ECU that does not contain correct operating software for the vehicle it is being installed into.  Commonly referred to as FLASH Programming, many replacement ECUs contain a service calibration only, which is software that allows it to communicate with a scan tool or J2534 device, but do not have the full install of operating software.  The OEM service information will instruct the technician when ECU programming is required, and what tool(s) are necessary to complete the programming process. All model year 2004 and newer Powertrain ECUs can be programmed using the OEM software and a J2534-2 compatible hardware interface.  Some non-Powertrain ECUs can only be programmed using the OEM scan tool and software.

QUALITY CONTROL (QC): The final step of a vehicle inspection with function tests, road test and inspection before delivery back to customer.

REAR CROSS TRAFFIC WARNING: Detects vehicles approaching from the side at the rear of the vehicle while in reverse gear and alerts the driver. Some systems also warn for pedestrians or other objects.

RADAR TARGETS – Reference- SAE J3262 DEC2023
A physical object designed to direct radar signals back to a radar emitter/receiver.

NOTE: Critical positioning dimensions should always be described by target setup procedure.

RE-LEARN: See “Calibration”

REVERSE AUTOMATIC EMERGENCY BRAKING: Detects potential collisions while in reverse gear and automatically brakes to avoid or lessen the severity of impact. Some systems also detect pedestrians or other objects.

ROAD TEST BASIC: Performed by shop personnel to verify standard vehicle performance and condition, including – but not limited to, centered steering wheel, vibrations, pulling conditions, wind noise, rattles, engine performance, transmission shifting, etc.

ROLL ANGLE – Reference- SAE J3262 DEC2023
Nominal angular value referenced to rotation about the chassis geometric centerline or vehicle body centerline axis.

NOTE: Refer to SAE J670, Section 3 for more detail regarding the vehicle coordinate system.

SCAN: The process of using a scan tool to query vehicle network busses to identify which ECUs are equipped, communicating and have DTCs stored.  

SCAN TOOL: A device used to query vehicle network busses to identify which ECUs are equipped, communicating and have DTCs stored.  Capabilities can vary from simple OBDII readers to highly complex tools that can run guided diagnostic routines. OEM scan tools are generally limited to the manufacturer branding support only but have the complete suite of capabilities as determined by the OEM service engineering groups. Scan tools can come in a variety of hardware and software configurations including PC/laptop-based tools connected with a vehicle interface, to handheld (embedded) tools with built in interfaces and software.

SCATTER CHART TARGETS – Reference- SAE J3262 DEC2023
A large target consisting of a grid of many small rectangles of various degrees of gray color.

NOTE: Scatter chart targets should not be confused with X-Y scatter plots. Target should have a defined flatness specification. The critical positioning dimensions are roll, pitch, yaw, vertical, and lateral.

SERVICE INFORMATION: Vehicle repair information, schematics, wiring diagrams, calibration procedures, repair and diagnostic test procedures. There are multiple sources for information ranging from OEM specific websites to all-inclusive aftermarket providers who provide service information for multiple OEMs. Subscriptions for service information must be purchased from providers whether OEM or aftermarket.  OEM service information subscriptions are available in short term, monthly and annual terms, and are purchased directly on the OEM service websites.

STATIC CALIBRATION PROCEDURE – Reference- SAE J3262 DEC2023 (SAE J3262 DEC2023)
An ADAS sensor calibration procedure that consists of presenting one or more targets or objects in defined locations relative to the nonmoving vehicle as specified.

NOTE: Procedures and target locations are typically specified by relevant sensor/system manufacturers/providers.

STATIC CALIBRATION CLEAR SPACE – Reference- SAE J3262 DEC2023
A physical space within the sensor’s field of view that must be devoid of all objects, other than the calibration target, that might interfere with the sensor’s calibration.

SURROUND VIEW CAMERA: Displays the immediate surroundings of some or all sides of the vehicle while stopped or during low speed maneuvers.

TARGET PLACEMENT LOCATION COORDINATES – Reference- SAE J3262 DEC2023
The coordinates of the placement location(s) of the target(s) with respect to a coordinate origin.

NOTE: Coordinate origin may vary according to procedure.

TEST:  A stage of the diagnostic process where a technician performs a predetermined procedure on a vehicle, system or component.  Examples could be using bi-directional controls on a scan tool, using a DVOM to check resistance on an electrical circuit, or activating a driver safety feature.

THERMAL TARGETS – Reference- SAE J3262 DEC2023
Targets that are designed for calibrating long-wave infrared cameras.

NOTE: Long-wave infrared cameras are typically used for detecting objects in low-visible-light conditions. Wavelengths typically span 8000 to 14000 nm. Commonly referred to as “night vision cameras.”

EXAMPLE 1: Heated wire types, which consist of a metal plate with a heated cross pattern wire embedded within it.
EXAMPLE 2: Heated ceramic plate type behind crosshairs slit.

TRAILER ASSISTANCE: Assists the driver with visual guidance while backing towards a trailer or during backing maneuvers with a trailer attached. Some systems may provide additional images while driving or backing with a trailer. Some systems may provide steering assistance during backing maneuvers.

TRIHEDRAL REFLECTOR – Reference- SAE J3262 DEC2023
A metallic reflector with three triangular sides, each of which is orthogonal to the other two.

NOTE: Trihedral reflector is sometimes referred to as “corner reflector” by radar industry. These should have a defined size/dimension. The critical positioning dimensions are vertical and lateral.

VEHICLE COMMUNICATION INTERFACE (VCI): A hardware interface between a laptop, tablet, or PC to allow application-based scan tool software to communicate with a vehicle. These devices contain the necessary hardware and firmware to connect the application software to the vehicle networks, utilizing pre-defined SAE/ISO communication protocol standards. 

VEHICLE TRIM HEIGHT – Reference- SAE J3262 DEC2023
A vertical dimension that specifies the location of a fixed point on the vehicle body or chassis relative to the ground.

VEHICLE TRIM HEIGHT AXIS– Reference- SAE J3262 DEC2023
A vector that is normal to the chassis plane.

VEHICLE THRUST LINE – Reference- SAE J3262 DEC2023
The vector of the longitudinal force generated by the vehicle’s powertrain that originates from the center of the non-steering rear axle.

NOTE: The vehicle thrust line is equal to the numerical difference between the two individual rear toe angles and can be thought of as an imaginary line that is 90° from the non-steering rear axle when the individual rear toe angles are balanced. Refer to SAE J670, Section 3 for more detail regarding the vehicle coordinate system.

VEHICLE THRUST ANGLE (SAE J3262 DEC2023)
The nominal angular difference between the chassis geometric centerline and the vehicle thrust line.

VERIFICATION: proving out proper driving & handling characteristics, wind noise, rattles, squeaks and the proper operation of any/all ADAS equipment on the vehicle regardless of whether the shop serviced that system or not.

YAW ANGLE – Reference- SAE J3262 DEC2023
Nominal angular value referenced to rotation about a vector that is normal to the chassis plane.

NOTE: Refer to SAE J670, Section 3 for more detail regarding the vehicle coordinate system. This angle is sometimes referred to as the “heading.”

ZERO-POINT CALIBRATION: A type of static calibration, most commonly used for
occupant detection and steering angle calibrations. It can also apply to brake pedal position sensors and Idle air control “Idle learn” procedures. This type of calibration is done to establish a zero point for the computer (0 lbs. for an occupant detector, 0 degrees for a steering angle sensor, etc.).