A car scanner, using the OBD2 protocol, can reveal a wealth of information about your vehicle’s health. Sometimes, a scan reveals “Archive (inactive)” Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs). What does this mean, and should you be concerned? This article will delve into understanding “Car Scanner Archive Inactive” reports, specifically focusing on Volkswagen examples.
Decoding “Archive (Inactive)”
When a car scanner reports a DTC as “Archive (inactive),” it signifies a fault that was previously detected but is not currently present. The car’s onboard diagnostic system stored the code because the issue occurred for a certain period or number of drive cycles. However, the problem hasn’t reoccurred recently, causing the system to classify it as inactive. This doesn’t necessarily mean the problem is gone for good.
Volkswagen Example: Analyzing a DTC Report
The following is a sample DTC report from a Volkswagen CR Touareg 2017, generated by a Car Scanner ELM OBD2 device. Several entries show the “Archive (inactive)” status:
==========1==============
3098681 Raw code: 2F4839 ECU: 18D[Archive (inactive)]
Status: Test failed since last DTC clear, Test not completed during this operation cycle
==========15==============
3276854 Raw code: 320036 ECU: C6. High-voltage battery charger (UDS)[Archive (inactive)]
Status: Test failed since last DTC clear, Test not completed during this operation cycle
==========17==============
5242881 Raw code: 500001 ECU: C6. High-voltage battery charger (UDS)[Archive (inactive)]
Status: Test failed since last DTC clear, Test not completed during this operation cycle
Volkswagen: C104A4B: Control module Excess temp.
==========19==============
41716 Raw code: 00A2F4 ECU: 0051. Electro-engine[Archive (inactive)]
Status: Confirmed, Test failed since last DTC clear These entries, although inactive, provide valuable clues. Entry 17, related to the high-voltage battery charger, indicates a previous over-temperature condition (C104A4B). While currently inactive, this could point to a potential recurring issue with the charging system. Similarly, Entry 19 suggests a past problem with the electric engine.
Should You Ignore “Archive Inactive” Codes?
While “car scanner archive inactive” codes represent past faults, they shouldn’t be disregarded. They offer crucial historical data for diagnosing intermittent problems. For instance, a recurring “low tire pressure” inactive code might indicate a slow leak.
Furthermore, some inactive codes can prevent the vehicle from passing emissions tests, even if the problem seems resolved. Consulting a qualified technician is crucial. They can use the archived codes in conjunction with other diagnostic procedures to identify potential underlying issues before they become major problems.
Leveraging Archived Data for Proactive Maintenance
“Car scanner archive inactive” data allows for proactive maintenance. By understanding past issues, mechanics can anticipate potential future failures and take preventative measures. This can ultimately save time and money by addressing problems before they escalate. Regularly scanning your vehicle and reviewing both active and inactive codes provides a comprehensive understanding of its health.
Conclusion
“Car scanner archive inactive” entries are essential pieces of the diagnostic puzzle. While not indicating current problems, they offer valuable insights into past faults, aiding in troubleshooting intermittent issues and enabling proactive maintenance. Don’t ignore these codes; utilize them to ensure your vehicle’s long-term health and reliability. Consulting a qualified technician for further diagnosis is always recommended.
