The purpose of this test is to satisfy the enable criteria necessary in order to execute the I/M readiness diagnostics for the catalyst system. The test may be used to set the I/M System Status indicators to YES. Ensure the vehicle meets the requirements listed in Conditions for Running before performing this test. Failure to meet the necessary requirements may produce inaccurate test results.

The control module runs a maximum of 6 tests per trip until the Catalyst System Status updates to YES. If the status does not update, the test outlined in this procedure can be repeated until the I/M System Status updates to YES.

The I/M System Status does not indicate whether the test has passed or failed, only that a decision was made. When all of the diagnostics for a specific system have run and passed, the I/M System Status will update to YES. If a test for a specific system has failed, the I/M System Status will update to YES, indicating a determination was made, even if all of the required tests have not run. When a failure occurs, the Emission Related DTC portion of the I/M System Status display will indicate the MIL is requested. The I/M System Status also registers the number of diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).

The first failure of a type B DTC does not constitute a final determination of pass or fail, and will not update the I/M System Status to YES. A second trip is required, and all the conditions to run must be met in order for the test to run again. These conditions may include a partial to complete engine cool down.

The I/M System Status will update only when the DTC fails the second time, or when all of the tests pass.

If there is an impending failure, the system may require more time to run the diagnostic than was allotted in the set procedure. If the test does not run after numerous attempts, and if no DTC is set, review the appropriate scan tool data list and review the service information for an indication of why the test does not complete. Some tests may abort due to changes in the conditions while the test is running. For example, changes in engine load such as a cooling fan or an A/C compressor clutch turning on may cause the test to abort.

If a diagnostic test is difficult to run, observe the I/M System Status display while maintaining the necessary enable conditions until the system status updates to YES.

The numbers below refer to the step numbers on the diagnostic table.

1. Perform the I/M System Check before performing this test. Failure to do so may result in difficulty updating the status to YES.

2. The Catalyst Test during the idle period immediately following the cruise period.

3. This step is to identify a first failure of a type B DTC. A DTC only appears on the I/M System Status display when it becomes a MIL illuminating DTC. This occurs during the second failure of a type B DTC. A first failure of a type B DTC will not allow the I/M System Status to update to YES. Refer to Diagnostic Aids.

4. This step is to help identify any unique or unusual criteria required in order to run the diagnostic test if the universal set procedure does not. This information is in the service information under Conditions for Running the DTC.

5. The I/M System Status only reports on whether or not a diagnostic has run, not what outcome of the test. If any emission-related DTC sets after the tests are complete, the DTC will require diagnosis.