Diagnostic screen displaying generic I/M test types applicable to various vehicles
For a 2001 Chevy Tracker equipped with a V6 engine, the specific I&M tests are defined by the manufacturer. The screenshot below, captured from a professional-grade GM Tech2 scanner, illustrates the typical monitors your 2001 Tracker will undergo. It’s important to note that this screen only indicates if a test has been performed, not whether it passed or failed. The first step is to identify which test, if any, is preventing your Tracker from achieving a “Ready” status.
GM Tech2 scanner display showing Inspection and Maintenance tests for a 2001 V6 Tracker, indicating test completion status
The good news is, you don’t need a high-end scanner to get this information. Even a basic, affordable OBD2 scanner can provide the necessary data to understand your 2001 Tracker’s I&M test status. As shown in the image below, a generic OBD2 scanner clearly presents the valid tests for your Tracker.
Let’s break down what these indicators mean: “N/A” signifies the test is Not Applicable to your vehicle. “OK” means the test has been completed successfully. “INC” is the key indicator – it means the test is Incomplete. If you’re facing smog check issues, the “INC” test is where you should focus your diagnostic efforts.
Consider the Oxygen (O2) sensor test as an example, often a culprit for incomplete status. As shown below, the I&M O2 sensor test has specific conditions that must be met before it will run and complete.
OBD2 scanner screen displaying specific conditions for completing the I/M Oxygen sensor test, crucial for emissions readiness
It’s crucial to understand that an incomplete test (“INC”) does not automatically mean a failed test. Each I&M test has its own set of preconditions – driving cycles, engine temperature, and more – that must be satisfied for the test to initiate and finish. This is often why a smog check inspector might advise you to “keep driving” your 2001 Tracker. However, if after driving a considerable distance, like 250 miles as mentioned, the test remains incomplete, further investigation is needed.
Unfortunately, detailed documentation on troubleshooting incomplete tests can be scarce, even from manufacturers like Chevrolet.
Chevrolet service information screen mentioning I/M testing but lacking detailed troubleshooting guidance for incomplete tests
To shed more light on this, here’s an explanation from a seasoned automotive technician: “Mode 1 of your OBD2 scanner is where you’ll find the status of onboard monitors. These monitors track systems impacting emissions. They are either continuous (Comprehensive Component, Misfire, Fuel) or non-continuous. Each monitor runs a series of tests to assess system health. The monitor status screen indicates if all tests within a monitor have completed. Ideally, they should all read ‘Ready’ or ‘Complete’.”
“A ‘Not Ready’ or ‘Not Complete’ status suggests a few possibilities: codes were recently cleared (resetting monitors), or the ECM (Engine Control Module) lost power. This can be diagnostic clue itself. If power loss is due to wiring issues or a failing battery, the ECM might be constantly rebooting, potentially causing drivability problems.”
In conclusion, understanding the OBD2 system and I&M tests on your 2001 Chevy Tracker is key to successfully navigating smog checks. An incomplete test doesn’t always signal a problem, but persistent incomplete statuses require further diagnosis, starting with identifying the specific “INC” monitor and understanding its enabling conditions. Using even a basic OBD2 scanner can empower you to understand your vehicle’s emissions readiness and take informed steps towards a successful smog check.
