Understanding the language of automotive diagnostics is crucial for any technician or car enthusiast using an EDS scan tool. These powerful tools often display a wealth of information, but it can be overwhelming if you’re not familiar with the common abbreviations used. This guide aims to demystify the world of Eds Scan Tool Abbreviations, providing a comprehensive resource to help you quickly interpret diagnostic data and efficiently troubleshoot vehicle issues.
Common Engine Diagnostic Abbreviations
| Abbreviation | Definition |
|---|---|
| CKP | Crankshaft Position Sensor |
| CMP | Camshaft Position Sensor |
| ECT | Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor |
| MAF | Mass Air Flow Sensor |
| MAP | Manifold Absolute Pressure Sensor |
| IAT | Intake Air Temperature Sensor |
| TPS | Throttle Position Sensor |
| O2S | Oxygen Sensor |
| HO2S | Heated Oxygen Sensor |
| VSS | Vehicle Speed Sensor |
| CKP/CMP Corr. | Crankshaft/Camshaft Position Correlation |
| EGR | Exhaust Gas Recirculation |
| EVAP | Evaporative Emission Control System |
| FTP | Fuel Tank Pressure Sensor |
| PCM | Powertrain Control Module |
| ECM | Engine Control Module |
| TCM | Transmission Control Module |
| PCM/ECM/TCM Comm. Error | Communication Error with Powertrain/Engine/Transmission Control Module |
| MIL | Malfunction Indicator Lamp (Check Engine Light) |
| DTC | Diagnostic Trouble Code |
| RPM | Revolutions Per Minute |
| LOAD | Engine Load |
| STFT | Short Term Fuel Trim |
| LTFT | Long Term Fuel Trim |
| IGN ADV | Ignition Advance |
| IAC | Idle Air Control |
| MAF Rate | Mass Air Flow Rate |
| BARO | Barometric Pressure |
Common Transmission Diagnostic Abbreviations
| Abbreviation | Definition |
|---|---|
| TSS | Turbine Speed Sensor |
| OSS | Output Shaft Speed Sensor |
| ISS | Input Shaft Speed Sensor |
| TFT | Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor |
| TPS | Throttle Position Sensor (also relevant to transmission control) |
| VSS | Vehicle Speed Sensor (also relevant to transmission control) |
| Shift Sol. | Shift Solenoid |
| TCC | Torque Converter Clutch |
| TCC Sol. | Torque Converter Clutch Solenoid |
| Gear Ratio | Gear Ratio Incorrect |
| Trans. Temp High | Transmission Temperature High |
| TCM | Transmission Control Module |
| TCM Comm. Error | Transmission Control Module Communication Error |
| P/N Switch | Park/Neutral Switch |
Common Chassis & Body Diagnostic Abbreviations
| Abbreviation | Definition |
|---|---|
| ABS | Anti-lock Braking System |
| EBCM | Electronic Brake Control Module |
| Wheel Speed Sensor (FL, FR, RL, RR) | Wheel Speed Sensor (Front Left, Front Right, Rear Left, Rear Right) |
| BCM | Body Control Module |
| SRS | Supplemental Restraint System (Airbag System) |
| Airbag | Airbag System Fault |
| SAS | Steering Angle Sensor |
| EPS | Electric Power Steering |
| TPMS | Tire Pressure Monitoring System |
| TP Sensor | Tire Pressure Sensor |
| RCM | Restraints Control Module |
| PCM | Power-steering Control Module |
| HVAC | Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning |
| A/C | Air Conditioning |
| Blend Door | HVAC Blend Door Actuator |
| Mode Door | HVAC Mode Door Actuator |
| Recirc. Door | HVAC Recirculation Door Actuator |
| EATC | Electronic Automatic Temperature Control |
| GEM | Generic Electronic Module |
| RAP | Remote Anti-theft Personality |
| GEM/BCM Comm. Error | Generic Electronic Module/Body Control Module Communication Error |
| GEM/RAP Comm. Error | Generic Electronic Module/Remote Anti-theft Personality Communication Error |
Generic OBD-II Abbreviations
| Abbreviation | Definition |
|---|---|
| OBD-II | On-Board Diagnostics II |
| PID | Parameter ID |
| Mode $01 | Show current data |
| Mode $02 | Show freeze frame data |
| Mode $03 | Show stored diagnostic trouble codes |
| Mode $04 | Clear diagnostic information |
| Mode $05 | Oxygen sensor monitoring test results |
| Mode $06 | On-board monitoring test results |
| Mode $07 | Show pending diagnostic trouble codes |
| Mode $08 | Control operation of on-board component/system |
| Mode $09 | Request vehicle information |
| Mode $0A | Show permanent diagnostic trouble codes |
Tips for Using EDS Scan Tool Abbreviations
- Consult Your Scan Tool Manual: Your specific EDS scan tool will have a manual that likely includes a glossary of abbreviations specific to that tool and the vehicles it supports. Always refer to it first.
- Context is Key: The meaning of an abbreviation can sometimes depend on the context. Pay attention to the system you are diagnosing (engine, transmission, chassis) to better understand the abbreviation’s meaning.
- Online Resources: Websites and online forums dedicated to automotive diagnostics are valuable resources for looking up unfamiliar abbreviations.
- Build Your Knowledge Over Time: The more you use your EDS scan tool and work with diagnostic data, the more familiar you will become with these abbreviations.
By understanding these common EDS scan tool abbreviations, you can effectively utilize your diagnostic tools, quickly identify problem areas, and streamline your automotive repair process. This guide serves as a starting point, and continuous learning and practical experience will solidify your expertise in automotive diagnostics.
