Drive cycles are performed to check the engine, transmission and emissions control system. Simply put, it is a standardised testing procedure used to measure the performance of a vehicle. Moreover, drive cycles also aid in highlighting underlying issues that can lead to serious malfunctions. This makes the drive cycle a significant procedure, whether opting for new or used cars.
Let’s dive a little deeper into the process and elaborate on how to perform a basic drive cycle.
Steps to Perform a Basic Drive Cycle
The drive cycle is conducted by mimicking general driving conditions, which include acceleration, deceleration and idling. These conditions use different types of car sensors, providing necessary information regarding the vehicle’s conditions. The drive cycle helps in diagnosing multiple issues conveniently without dissecting the malfunctioning auto part.
Following are the steps to perform a basic drive cycle.
Step 1: Fill up the Tank
Steps for the basic drive cycle start from filling up the fuel tank with a minimum of 30% and a maximum of 70%. This allows different systems, like the Evaporative Emission Control System (EVAP), to work optimally. Filling beyond the optimum limit affects the drive cycle, resulting in inaccurate results.
Step 2: Check Car Battery & Alternator
Once done, check whether the car battery and alternator are working properly or not. It is essential because jump-starting a car can erase the memory of the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), restricting accurate data collection.
A weak battery or alternator will not provide enough electricity to perform some of the most basic and necessary tests. That said, whether it is an ignition switch problem or a bad battery, get it fixed prior to performing the drive cycle.
Step 3: Park the Vehicle
After completing steps 1 and 2, let the vehicle rest overnight or for at least 8 hours. Make sure the vehicle is parked in a covered area having an optimum temperature of 32℃. It is necessary to align air and engine temperature to let EVAP systems run tests properly.
After parking, remove the car keys from the ignition and shut all the doors to completely switch off the car computer and systems. In case your car keys are stuck in the ignition, here are some DIYs to remove car keys from the ignition.
Step 4: Cold Start the Car
Cold start the car in Neutral or Parking gear and let it idle for 3 to 4 minutes. During idling, turn on the headlights, heater or car AC and let it run for a few minutes until the idle speed turns normal. Once the idle speed reaches normal, proceed towards the next step.
Step 5: Cruise Around the City
Put the car in gear and cruise around the city streets at a speed of 40 km/h. Gradually speed up the car and maintain the speed between 48 km/h to 64 km/h. After driving for a kilometre, slow down the car, bring it to a complete stop and then accelerate it again. Repeat the process throughout the trip.
Make sure not to brake or accelerate aggressively; it should be performed at a normal speed.
Step 6: Drive on the Highway
For step 6, opt for any of the major highways in the UAE. Perform a ½ and ¾ throttle acceleration; make sure not to release or press the accelerator completely. Once you are adjusted to the traffic, accelerate up to 96 km/h and maintain this speed for at least 8 km. If maintaining speed is difficult, seek assistance from cruise control.
Step 7: Coast Down Without Accelerating
Exit the highway and opt for a route with an incline; if that’s not an option, consider taking a bridge. Drive on the bridge, and while coasting down, release the accelerator pedal completely. Also, do not apply brakes or shift gears while coasting down the bridge.
Step 8: Get Your Car Checked
After completing the trip, park your vehicle and let it idle for 2 to 3 minutes before shutting it off. If your vehicle has performed all the above-mentioned steps properly, there are no major issues with the car.
For more accurate results, visit the nearest mechanic and get your pending codes, present codes and readiness monitor checked. You can also avail of dubizzle’s car inspection services for satisfactory car checks.
FAQs
What is the duration required to complete a drive cycle?
The drive cycle can take around 20 to 30 minutes; however, it is necessary to rest the vehicle for at least 8 hours before starting the cycle.
After covering how many kilometres does the car’s computer reset?
After driving 800 to 1600 km, the car computer resets.
Is it necessary to use an OBD-II Scanner while performing a drive cycle?
The OBD-II Scanner is used to check whether all the error codes are clear or not. This makes the diagnosing process more efficient.
This is how you can perform a drive cycle and check for underlying issues in cars. That said, performing a drive cycle is necessary, especially when buying used cars for sale in the UAE. If you find multiple errors after performing the drive cycle, it’s better to opt for another well-maintained vehicle.
Stay tuned to dubizzle’s auto blog for more information on the OBD-II Scanner and its uses.
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