Before diagnosing a reserved ISO/SAE error code such as P011E or P011F, it is essential to understand that it often involves non-compliance with strict technical standards rather than a direct hardware failure. These standards are established by two major organizations: the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
ISO and SAE: Definition and Roles
- SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers)
Founded in 1905 in the United States, SAE develops standards for the automotive and aerospace industries. The SAE acronym is also recognized for designating tools and components with non-metric standard dimensions. - ISO (International Organization for Standardization)
Established in 1947, ISO brings together standardization bodies from over 100 countries. Its mission is to harmonize international standards to promote trade and technological innovation, particularly in data communication and information technologies.
Importance of ISO/SAE Standards in the Automotive Industry
Since 1995, manufacturers have collaborated with ISO and SAE to define strict guidelines for on-board diagnostic (OBD) systems and data communication. These standards aim to:
- Reduce electromagnetic interference,
- Standardize communication protocols,
- Minimize message conflicts between systems.
Protocols Subject to ISO/SAE Standards
The main standardized automotive protocols include:
- CAN bus: A multiplexed network enabling communication between the PCM and other controllers.
- DC bus, Keyword Protocol, LIN network, and VAN: Manage non-critical functions such as entertainment or comfort.
The CAN bus is particularly crucial, as a modern vehicle can have up to 70 interconnected controllers. An interface error detected in this network generates an ISO/SAE code and may illuminate the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL).
Severity and Symptoms of ISO/SAE Codes
Severity Level
The conditions causing an ISO/SAE code vary significantly:
- Serious issues affecting driving.
- Minor malfunctions with no immediate impact.
Common Symptoms
- Vehicle handling problems.
- No visible symptoms at all.
- Presence of other associated OBD-II codes.
Possible Causes
- Damaged or corroded wiring or connectors.
- Failure of an on-board controller (ECU).
- Controller programming or software error.
Diagnostic Procedure for ISO/SAE Codes
- Initial Check
- Visually inspect cables and connectors for any damage or corrosion.
- Check battery charge and proper alternator function.
- Code Analysis with an OBD2 Scanner
- Connect a diagnostic scanner to the OBD-II port to read codes and freeze frame data.
- Clear the codes and test the vehicle to check if the error is intermittent.
- In-Depth Inspection
- If the code reappears, consult the manufacturer’s Technical Service Bulletins (TSB).
- Perform a wiggle test to check the stability of CAN bus connectors and wiring.
- Hardware or Software Fault
- If no issues are detected, suspect a faulty controller or a programming error requiring a software update.
Examples of Reserved ISO/SAE Codes
Here is a non-exhaustive list of common codes: P011E, P012F, P015E, P015F, P016A-P016F, P017A-P017F, P019A-P01FF, P030A-P030F, P033F, P034A-P034F, P038A-P038F, P0000, P00C0-P00FF.
Conclusion and Call to Action
Diagnosing ISO/SAE codes like P011E or P011F requires a methodical approach, ranging from basic wiring checks to the use of advanced scanning tools. If you are not equipped or familiar with these procedures, consult a professional mechanic or a garage specialized in automotive diagnostics for an effective and safe resolution of the issue.