Newberry Automotive

Setting the Record Straight on Rediness Monitors and On-Board Diagnostics (OBDII) Inspections

Readiness Monitor Status
Readiness Monitor Status is NOT the same as Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC's). Readiness represents whether or not the emissions control system in question has been evaluated. This evaluation tests for system functionality and, if a problem is detected, a DTC will be stored in the on-board computer.

What does "Ready" vs "Not Ready" status mean?

Ready - The OBDII system has checked this emissions control system.

Not Ready - The OBDII system has NOT checked this emissions control system.

N/A or N/S - The OBDII system is not required to check this emissions control system.

Where is Readiness Monitor Status on the Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR)?

The Emissions Test Results section of the VIR shows the status of each readiness monitor.

REMEMBER: The vehicle will fail the OBDII inspection if more than two (2) monitors are "Not Ready".

Changing the Monitors(s) to "Ready"

In order to get the OBDII system to set the monitors to "Ready", the vehicle needs to be drivin through a drive cycle/drive trace.

If you don't have access to drive cycles/drive traces, they should be available from a qualified service technician or dealership.

With a generic OBDII scan tool, verify the monitors are "Ready" before returning the vehicle to the customer.

If the vehicle has DTC's stored, and the MIL is commanded on:

The vehicle will need repairs to correct the malfunction before it will pass the OBDII inspection.

If you've cleared the DTC's (using a scan tool or disconnecting the battery), monitors will reset to "Not Ready".

Driving the vehicle through the drive cycle/drive trace wil set the monitors back to "Ready" and verify that the repairs were effective.

With a generic OBDII scan tool, verify the monitors are "Ready" before returning the vehicle to the customer.

IMPORTANT!!!
Automobile repair technicians need to check for service and recall bulletins that may apply to certain vehicles with readiness issues.

Disconnecting the battery is the most common reason why monitors are "Not Ready". Some reasons for disconnecting the battery are tune-ups and other engine repairs, dead battery replacement, car radio installations, and car alarm installations.

Some reasons why your vehicle might fail the TSI emissions test

HC Failures

1981-1986

Carburetor

O2 sensor

Ignition timing and system (advanced timing and ignition components are some of the most common problems)

Catalytic converter

Vacuum lines (deterioration of vacuum lines and inlet manifold seats become more prevalent causes with age)

Primary feedback sensor failure including oxygen sensor, MAP/MAF, TPS, RPM, and CTS sensors

1987-1995
(Use OBDII, if Available)

O2 sensor

Ignition timing and system (advanced timing and ignition components are some of the most common problems)

Catalytic converter

Vacuum lines (deterioration of vacuum lines and inlet manifold seats become more prevalent causes with age)

Primary feedback sensor failure including oxygen sensor, MAP/MAF, TPS, RPM, and CTS sensors

CO Failures

1981-1986

Carburetor

O2 sensor

Ignition timing and system (advanced timing and ignition components are some of the most common problems)

Catalytic converter

Vacuum lines (deterioration of vacuum lines and inlet manifold seats become more prevalent causes with age)

Primary feedback sensor failure including oxygen sensor, MAP/MAF, TPS, RPM, and CTS sensors

1987-1995
(Use OBDII, if Available)

O2 sensor

Fuel Injectors/Carburetors

Vacuum lines (deterioration of vacuum lines and inlet manifold seats become more prevalent causes with age)

Primary feedback sensor failure including oxygen sensor, MAP/MAF, TPS, RPM, and CTS sensors

We can do most of the repairs listed above.