How to Read the Diagnosis on a 2007 Tundra
- 1). Look beneath the Tundra's dashboard and to the right of the steering column. There you will find an uncovered computer outlet. Connect your diagnostic scanner to this outlet and switch it on.
- 2). Turn on the Tundra's electrical system. Some scanners, depending on the brand and the specific diagnostic system you are working with, will also require you to start the engine.
- 3). Look at your device's display screen. If there are codes waiting for you, then your device has been manufactured with automatic code retrieval programmed in. If not, then you will need to enter in the appropriate system-reading command. How to do this differs by scanner brand and by the vehicle system you are accessing. Defer to the exact instructions located in your scanner's user manual.
- 4). Look again at your device's display screen. The codes will be there, but most cheaper diagnostic devices are not programmed with the definitions. Most are simple code readers. There are ways to read the codes before looking up their definitions. First, differentiate the codes by their status. For example, the OBD-II system will differentiate between "pending" and "trouble" codes. Pending codes have occurred at a low frequency. The Tundra's computer notes their existence, but does not turn on the "Check engine" light. Trouble codes have occurred often, and they do activate the Tundra's "check engine" light.
- 5). Look at the codes themselves. The code indicating a problem with the antilock brake system will normally be a string of numbers. OBD-II codes are alpha-numeric. The first letter will tell you where the problem is generally located. For instance, "P" stands for powertrain and includes the engine and emissions system. "B" stands for "Body" and cover brake issues not governed by the ABS system. "C" refers to the electrical system, and "U" means network communications.
- 6). Look up the meaning of each code. Most OBD-II device manuals will offer the generic code descriptions. These are codes used by all post-1996 vehicles sold in the United States. Toyota has a separate set of OBD-II codes that can be found online.
- 7). Consider each of the code's meanings. You will need to decide whether to repair the problems yourself or drive the Tundra to a Toyota-approved mechanic. If you opt for professional help, bring in the codes you have copied from your diagnostic device onto a sheet of paper. This will save you in diagnostic fees once you get to the repair shop.
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