Freeze Frame Data: Notes

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2002 Suzuki XL-7. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Engine operating conditions are required to be captured and stored in Engine Control Module (ECM) memory whenever a malfunction is detected. Data captured in this manner is called FREEZE FRAME data. Freeze frame data is similar to a single record of operating conditions. Whenever a malfunction is detected, corresponding record of operating conditions is recorded in the freeze frame buffer. ECM can store freeze frame data for 3 different malfunctions.

Freeze frame data can only be overwritten with data associated with a misfire or fuel trim malfunction. Misfire data takes priority over all other data because of its possible part-damaging (oxygen sensors, catalytic converters, etc.) effects. Freeze frame data will not be erased unless associated DTC is cleared from ECM memory.