On-Board Diagnostics System Description

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

ECM in this vehicle in compliance with On-Board Diagnostic-II (OBD-II) regulations, has following functions:

When ignition switch is turned to ON position, Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) illuminates as a MIL bulb check-out. MIL should turn OFF when engine is running or ignition switch is turned to LOCK position.
When ECM detects a malfunction which would have an adverse or severe damage to vehicle emissions while engine is running, MIL flashes (flashes only when detecting a misfire which can cause damage to the catalyst). ECM stores DTC(s) in memory. If after 3 driving cycles ECM no longer detects condition that set DTC, MIL is turned OFF. DTC will remain stored in memory.
As a condition for detecting a malfunction, in some areas system being monitored by ECM, 2 drive cycle detection logic is adopted to prevent erroneous detection.
When a malfunction is detected, engine and driving conditions then are stored in ECM memory as freeze frame data. For freeze frame data details and description, see FREEZE FRAME DATA .
It is possible to communicate with ECM by using SUZUKI scan tool, or OBD-II generic scan tool which are in compliance with SAEJ1978. (Diagnostic information can be accessed by using a scan tool).