The scan tool displays the instrument cluster data. This information assists in determining whether the cluster is operating properly and whether the cluster is sending or receiving the proper data to and from a particular system. The instrument cluster uses data received from other systems in order to carry out some functions. Therefore, if the cluster receives the incorrect data from another system, the module may function improperly. Use the scan tool in order to review the data from the systems that interact with the cluster.

The scan tool also displays the instrument cluster input status. Select the cluster inputs display in order to display the data and determine if the switched inputs can be properly interpreted. The display also indicates if the input has changed states. For example, when a trip reset switch is not pressed, the scan tool displays the input status of the trip reset switch as INACTIVE. When the trip reset switch is pressed, the scan tool reads ACTIVE. Use this kind of information when diagnosing a malfunction associated with a the instrument cluster input or an input that is shared with another system.

The scan tool also displays the instrument cluster output status. Select the cluster outputs in order to determine if a message center/indicator is being commanded ON properly. The display also can view the message center/indicators change states. For example, when the high beam lamp indicator is commanded ON and OFF by the switch, the output state will toggle from ON to OFF. Use this kind of information when diagnosing a malfunction associated with a the instrument cluster outputs or an output that is shared with another system.

Use a scan tool in order to cycle the instrument cluster lamps, the gauges, and the PRNDL display functions. When the instrument cluster special functions is selected, the scan tool can command the cluster to cycle a lamp, a gauge, or the PRNDL display. Use this feature in order to dermine if the cluster is able to cycle an output regardless of the inputs or any specific program instructions. Once a test is selected, the scan tool will command the instrument cluster to energize the selected output. The scan tool then displays the status of the selected output. The displayed information represents only what the instrument cluster commanded, not what action was actually taken. Ensure the instrument cluster is actually performing each of the selected output functions.