Using Freeze Frame Data: Trailblazer P0128

[@wyattoneable]

This video was perfect for inexperienced guys like me. Understanding what the computer is looking for helps make sense of all this.

[@roadkill5333]

wyattoneable...now if you could talk him into doing this very same thing about women! What is she looking for, how to make sense of it al?? Is there any logic at all? How to get rid of trouble codes in history? Why is it important that she remember that I wanted to kiss a different girl, while I was in kindergarten, and how does that affect next years vacation trip?? When will a trouble code be set? And what will it take to fix it?? Come on Wyatt, you can do it!! Ask him nicely!

[@step3hen]

@@roadkill5333 KZbin the Black Phillip Show with Patrice O'Neal. He explains all you need to know about your questions.

[@JoesAutoElectric]

I was friends with Patrice. He was one of the best people I ever knew. Humble and every time he'd come to the shop for a visit or repairs, we got nothing done...he had us laughing far too much to work. Miss my buddy.

[@wysetech2000]

@@roadkill5333 I don't think Eric would be much help in that area as most women have NO logic at all and you can't erase trouble codes in history.

[@step3hen]

@@JoesAutoElectric that's awesome. Been a fan of his since the Tough Crowd show. Definitely one of a kind. Going to his benefit show this year, should be fun.

[@handyandy7706]

Back to basics videos are always good. When i'm teaching, I sometimes forget to start with the basics

[@normangallant9879]

Good info especially with these newer vehicle it is a good checked.Retired for 5 yrs never use that technique but it is good info.Keep up the good work Eric.And for your big sneeze lol bless you

[@Evnflw1]

Dude. Love the channel. I think you’re a great mechanic. I’m watching too many vids. I got the old lady’s car in pieces every weekend. Love it !!

[@sw7366]

Excellent diagnosis explanation. I own this model currently at 135000 and have changed the thermostat twice now for this exact same reason.

[@chrisvankauwenberg4009]

I do look at freeze frame data depending on the situation. I appreciate your perspective, thank you.

[@mrkttrdr2919]

Thanks for the knowledge, now Let's see the actual change of thermostat always like seeing the mechanical process

[@SightsWithSteve]

Your more efficient/knowledgeable than main dealers! My local ford in the uk knows nothing without having the car for the whole day, and even then sometimes raise there hands like 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@snakeskinproductions7500]

I use freeze frame data all the time. Also, thank the automotive powers that be for giving us "Identifix. I find it real helpful when I get into something that I have not worked on before. Nothing like the experience of other techs which is one of the reasons I watch your channel. Minds are like parachutes, they only work when there open. Thanks my friend...

[@allanandrowey5219]

Have not really used ff a lot but never thought about it like this. We have a launch in the shop which I love using. Do need another however. Thanks again, great video .

[@kiddbrother3]

thanks for the info! you can learn something new every day if you have an open mind!!

[@mikechiodetti6737]

I've used freeze frame before. It takes some getting used to, but it's a wealth of information. Thanks for the explanation and training!

[@longfieldcommercials]

Very helpful,well explained,good use of logic,and experience =right repair 1st time,good video,thankyou.

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

Freeze frame data is a great information to use and I use it all the time to diagnose problems for my customers

[@ToXSicK1340]

Yes, Awesome!!! Thank You Mr. O', I need all the Tips & Tricks I can get with using Scanners. Please more of these video's...… You're the Best, Sir! Thanks again.

[@thedogbarber]

"Excuse me folks, I'm allergic to work." I seem to have that issue as well. Lol

[@throttlebottle5906]

you, me and all of us, more specifically, when it involves UTTER GARBAGE quality junk, which causes endless headaches and bleeding of monetary to all general public sheeple ;)

[@JoesAutoElectric]

Eric you have a gift to get a point across man. Very nicely done.

[@rickproulx6667]

Thank you Eric for sharing your knowledge. And taking the time to do it right.

[@roadkill5333]

I love freeze frame data!! As a matter of fact, I had a bowl of them for breakfast just this morning! With sausage links and orange juice! Lol I was visiting a friend once. A family friend of his was present, and mentioned that she wanted him to change her thermostat. I asked why she just needed a thermostat changes, was she overheating. She said no, just the opposite. She was getting the dreaded P0128. Well of course, I had to look it up. I'm not as smart as you guys are. And I came up with the same thought. This could be an issue. Then she tells me that was the problem last time!! Huh?? Beg your pardon?? Did you say last time? She said that this happened a few weeks ago, too! And she changed the thermostat, and the code went away. UNTIL NOW!! I was like "AH HAAAA" well there's your problem right there, lady!! But, I was outnumbered, one woman to only two guys!! We changed her thermostat! I whispered a few times that this wasn't the problem, to the friend, but her just shrugged, and said we have to do what she wants!! I just assisted, and watched, while it all was done. She brought a T-stat, with her. NO COOLANT! No bucket! No drain pan, nothing but the need!! After the NEW coolant was drained into the street, they went for other NEW coolant. Someone asked what was up, and I explained that she saw a code, and wants someone to shoot the parts cannon at it. So, we were the ones to do it. While they were gone, I got a little curios, and grabbed the old(NEW) T-stat, and looked it over! What should appear before my very eyes?? Why, that was a large gap, where a large gap shouldn't be! Seem like the old(new) T-stat was faulty after all!! And allowing a pretty good amount of coolant to flow, keeping the engine a bit too cool, for a bit too long. Who'd a thunk it?? I set it back down, and went inside. They came back, and went went to refilling the system, while she tidied up a bit. As I walked out, I saw her throw a 20 footer across the driveway, and the old(new T-stat dropped home, NOTHING BUT NET!! I jumped immediately into action, and told her to back the truck up. I retrieved the old(new T-stat, and pointed out the obvious fault! I explained that she out to return it, to the store for a refund, and show them this. I reached for the box for the new(new)T-stat, and put it inside, and said she could maybe get a refund, if she has the receipt! So, she was right all along, the old(new)T-stat was faulty, and causing the code to set, again!! I had to eat some crow, but I think it taught me a lesson. It also turns out that she was employed at the very company where she purchased that faulty part. She works in the warehouse, not the parts counter. But still. She got her money back. One of those times that you ask yourself, O, O, O, O'REALLY?? wink wink

[@CubasAutomotive]

A good video to break up my long night... lots of ATG reading. It's nice when the freeze frame captures the appropriate window. Sometimes it's not enough PIDs available. .. Sickness went full blown and I'm on the recuperating end, finally.

[@camarobossman]

Thank you Eric for showing this information this will help me in the future I recently did a thermostat replacement on a 2006 Chevy Impala that had the error message engine hot AC off what my mistake was I change the coolant temp sensor first and if I looked at Freeze Frame data that would have helped me narrow it to be a thermostat rather than a sensor thank you so much I could have saved a whole lot of time looking at the Freeze Frame data ended up breaking the wiring harness pulling the temp sensor out and had to do wiring work as well big pain in the butt. Change the thermostat because the code set again you guessed it now we are fine.

[@MorFabIndustries]

I just recently had an 06 Trailblazer with almost the same issue. The same code would set but it was random and not consistent. It would go away for weeks and come back once in a while. Usually when the vehicle was due for an emissions test. Without freeze frame data, I would have had to fire the parts cannon at it and hope for the best. What I found via freeze frame was that the code would only set when the vehicle was above 65mph. So I took it for a ride monitoring coolant temp. What i found was that at idle, the vehicle would come to temp, the stat would open, and regulate just fine. At any speed below 65 the stat worked perfectly and temps were steady. Once I hit 65+ i could watch the temp drop roughly 1 degree per minute until ultimately it was below 176 and the MIL would illuminate and the code was set. At that point i suspected the stat was bypassing a small amount of coolant when closed but enough so at higher speeds the rad was able to cool better. When i pulled the stat i found what looked like a small piece of casting sand stuck to the surface of the sealing surface on the t-stat. I did a quick test by pouring some water in the housing and sure enough it was leaking through. I replaced the stat and all was well. Freeze frame was def a huge help showing me where the issue was occuring and giving me a good baseline to troubleshoot from. Great vid Eric!!

[@Evolvedmindz1]

Welcome me back to the South main Auto!!!! Dammit

[@allanandrowey5219]

Haha I was missing that too

[@hsttrek1]

That & the funny pronunciations for the manufacturers names...like Hondoo...

[@bobl78]

don´t do that again to us Eric.. it´s like a brake job without brake cleaner :-)

[@mikeholt3545]

I think it's super helpful the more information you have the better

[@sneakysnake109]

Thermostat or engine coolant temperature sensor. Unless the sensors normally fail open, right? Good you have the knowledge that thermostats are the high failure item. Thanks for sharing!

[@burtpilon1735]

That’s very valuable info. Freeze frame data can be alittle confusing with all them numbers but this really gives me a better understanding about the P0128. My Tacoma throws it every once in awhile I have a new thermostat in my glove box to replace thank for reminding me great video 👍🏻

[@kevinjbakertribe]

Excellent video, as always. Given me some ideas on troubleshooting a PITA problem in a non-car-related product- performing a "Freeze frame" capture of everything that moves when the very rare failure occurs may help me a lot!

[@fieldsofomagh]

Tutorial videos are always welcome, no matter what !!

[@baxrok2.]

Definitely an important diagnostic resource. Thanks Dr. O!

[@garyprice9544]

Excellent knowing the what to look for thanks gerbilly.

[@adamtrombino106]

1 of the 1st things we were taught in the late 90s was never erase codes like you would on an OBD1 car, because then you erase freeze frame data. Check your codes 1st, then check your freeze frame data second, then check live data to see if what happened then, is happening now. If not, be sure to mark down all of the freeze frame data that is possible, and clear the code if you wish. Take your diagnostic approach after that. Young techs I talk to seem to always clear codes right after reading them, w/o looking at freeze frame data. Often times, they spend a lot more time fishing than they need to because of this!

[@canadiancollisionspecialist]

this is informative... good call

[@billfischer6464]

You're awsome! I love that you teach us the steps to better diagnose and kind of use these tools as they are intended. I do see one potential bad thing with all of this though. Sadly I'm afraid that we are going to lose your shop videos when you're recruited as a teacher and you become another scanner danner. Thankyou very much for all you give us, I'd love to send a donation your way.

[@erichagler7842]

12:10 of time and people get educated never a bad thing . i have learned more by watching someone do something ,and then i jump into it with both feet and get some hands on. i dont use freeze frame data to often but can short cut your diagnostic time down ..... questions equals your costumer telling you what is wrong with there car ...... just another way to look at the work you have in front of you ..... great tip as always ...... thanks for your help .... it is interesting that one diagnostic tool over another can make a difference . i have thrown this out there to others as well for more hits and tips to the diagnostic equiptment vs. car ..... if doing programning are there any better choices over others as to web based or pay monthly vs. per need at time ...... such as , i use this piece of equiptment and go here for the programing needs ..... any help is always appreciated .... thanks again

[@papi-champoo6033]

The Bob Ross of automotive stuff.

[@63256325N]

Great approach as always. I've learned a ton since finding this channel, thanks a million!

[@Paul1958R]

Eric, Great video and explanation of freeze frame data. Thank you! SMA#1 God bless Paul

[@barrystone2122]

Our shop bought the autel Maxi system Elite about a year ago and we love it it is so useful and versatile unbelievable Snap-on version can kiss our Bass we don't it collects dust

[@Pr0ph3cy-k5z]

I'm a diy'er mechanic for my vehicles, the wife and friends and bought the Autel Maxisys. My brother in law is a master tech that was using snap-on. I let him borrow mine once while he was at home and he ended up getting his boss to purchase the Autel and trash the snap-on lol.

[@jethrobodine9617]

Wow....just did one of these last friday...same code but and was able to get several other maintenance items repaired for the customer. 138,000 miles on the vehicle. Did serp belt, tensioner, coolant, ect.

[@cathiepieszak6967]

Test don't guess. Pros need to be sure what they do is the correct thing to do. One Two Bar-B-que. Thanks for the great vids.

[@joshthomas5091]

Well there’s your problem! Great advise!

[@jamesbruno5896]

Freeze frame data is very useful! If this were a Volvo 50/50 chance between the thermostat or the CTS! I always replace them both. Good info Eric! 👍

[@allanandrowey5219]

Dammit. I'm off to work early now to play with ff feature. You rock mr o

[@brianburns7211]

This video somewhat touches on the discussion of WUW about which scan tool, and why. I agree that a video of side to side comparison would not be feasible. A quick mention of why you used the one that you did would give regular viewers an idea about where the strengths and weaknesses between the brands stack up. What I mean is that it would be helpful if you mentioned Snap On sucks for pulling up this type of data, or OTC works well with GM computers.....Sometimes you give a summation at the end. This could be a great time to mention what I’ve suggested. Eventually, we’d pick up on why you picked the tool that you have.

[@upgrayedd4376]

I did this exact procedure when my niece's 06 Cobalt set the same code... I used torque app which is good for small stuff

[@kmt01]

Great explanation of how to isolate root mechanical cause using modern scan tools, as usual, thanks. I'd wonder if a short video on why thermostats fail, and how to confirm without a scanner would garner a similar # of views ;)

[@scotta8494]

Thanks for the video Eric! I have been getting the same code on mine intermittently. I was 99% sure it was the thermostat and with this I am able to confirm it! I am almost positive mine is the original thermostat with 195K. Just got the TB so time to change it!

[@nyounus]

Thanks again Eric! Keep em coming 🙌🏽

[@V10PDTDI]

Thanks for the video I do use the freeze frame when they are available it gives you a clue if the car was idling of at hi-way speed etc .. also I look a the amount of times the fault happened so it tells u if it something that is pretty constant failure I notice that the coolant thermostat fault will come on real easy on some cars and on some other cars even though the thermostat is clearly not working up to specs the engine light might not come on .

[@tam1381]

Interesting video Eric. Got to honest and say no i don't and the reason is my tiny mind has some difficulty with it. However i see where you are going with this thanks.

[@arthurfricchione8119]

Thanks Eric for the heads up. I purchased the text from AESwave on using all the different functions of the scan tool so thank you for explaining that portion of it. Early AM but not better time to follow you when house is nice and quiet. Have a good one. Are your SMA decals still available? ❤️

[@allanandrowey5219]

Haha I get up at 445an so i can watch the vids that popped up over night. House is quiet 🤣 just me, coffee and the dog.

[@HarmonyHollowApiary]

Not necessarily freeze-frame data - but I use FORScan with my 2001 F250 7.3L for live data to monitor HPOP pressures and more. Also good for injector buzz-tests.

[@billmaxfield7831]

RIP J Geils, killer band .Pete Wolf rocks!

[@jasonbrown467]

I have a 02 and 04 trailblazer. I had that p0128 code poping up about once every 3 months or so. I changed the thermostat and the code came back so I changed it again with a oem thermostat, but the code still occurred. Then I learned about watching the "indicated" temps via obd. I had a bad temp sensor. Also I am pretty sure that a bad temp sensor is why it didn't have the power and fuel efficiency it normally would have. Now my problem has been solved for about 5 months. But my temps are still only about 195, when they should be 210.

[@stevenalmendarez1673]

Outstanding video.

[@alanmatthews5949]

I understand why you can not suggest only one brand of diagnostic scanner. Thanks Eric.

[@SmittySmithsonite]

I've had quite a few Ford 3.0 DOHC engines with vacuum leaks (intake), where freeze frame data told the tale. Misfire city - freeze frame says, coolant temp: 59° - runs better with heat - then confirmed with the water test. Bingo! Longest part of the diag is waiting for the damn scan tool to stop the "spinning wheel" thing and get down to business! It's 2019 - can we get a damn magic-box computer that works FAST??? Is that too much to ask?!? 😡 GREAT vid, Eric - you say you're not a great teacher ... I say ... BS !! 🍻😊

[@RobertHancock1]

Since both scan tools were so slow in this video, I'm guessing the ECM being slow to respond to requests from the scan tool is the issue..

[@mikecont9742]

Great informative video.

[@barrystone2122]

I also love the live data mode or test mode

[@BADD400]

Good info Eric

[@fsu3784]

Man I wish they would have kept that thermostat in that location!!! My 2008 has it at the very back passenger side of my inline 6! It. Is. Freakin. Pita to get to. Big time!

[@BLACKSSG85]

these thermostats are pretty easy to access with a long extension through the wheel well. it saves you from taking out the alternator all together. -Justin Sliwka

[@chuckgrenci6404]

Did a thermostat on my '04 Bravada (same engine, etc.) about three years ago as I had the same code (low mileage vehicle at approx. 62 k at the time). Recently got the same code (P0128), at 83 k, so this time I changed the coolant temperature sensor (and I know I should have changed the thermostat again) but I was curious to see if my temp sensor was the real culprit. So far, no code, but I guess time will tell. Oh, changing either is a big pain in the tookus(sic); behind the alternator, which isn't any fun either. Hope I don't have to go in there again. :D

[@mammutit]

It seems like you keep coming back to the Autel ... :)

[@MechanicTechnicianRepair]

A question the escaner is already includes witn the electronics diagram

[@mikeb7887]

Avid watcher of these videos. I have an Actron CP9180 (need to upgrade) and always view the freeze frame and live data early in the process. I do it to teach me how the data looks when things are wonky. That way I can know later if I have a confirmed fix. Hate when you think it is fixed but you did not do the initial info gathering to prove it. Mike B Tarrytown. Happy and safe 2019 to all.

[@twwtb]

Thanks man. Now I can't get that old J. Geils song out of my head.

[@mikeybhoutex]

So wha happen to "Hey there viewers, and welcome back to the South Main Auto Channel!"? Been missing these last times... I know, I know... busy things, setting up and all that... it's just kinda comforting is all... Oooh, I know! Maybe pick your best "Hey there!" from a previous show, throw it in front, then play Big Nasty's music while your logo fades in, then use Brake Cleaner fanfare on a hard cut switch to you and the new video! ...or... not... I guess... I mean, I understand if you can't... :) Keep doing the great work you're doing, and ignore me. I'm used to it by now... XD

[@geoffrwelsh]

Eric, I vote for more factory tool usage. Autel and OTC have their own KZbin channels.

[@seanseann8444]

Good information...........what model autel are you using

[@VolksDude]

539None = 539 Seconds = 8.9833 Minutes = 8 Minutes and 58 Seconds

[@glenjamindle]

Why can't it just say that...

[@-BuddyGuy]

8 minutes 59 seconds

[@VolksDude]

@@glenjamindle It would make too much sense....

[@buckhorncortez]

@@glenjamindle Because it's metric time...

[@motivatedpeon]

@@glenjamindle computers typically "count" time in seconds, so that they do not have to deal with decimals or fractions of time :)

[@stephenrankin2078]

Good morning Eric

[@robertevans6481]

Very informative...Dr O

[@Parknest]

I had to diagnose my thermostat problem the old fashioned way on my 1995 BMW E36 318i. Coolant temperature gauge hardly registering along with lukewarm heaters. A new thermostat fixed the problem.

[@blockbertus]

Thanks, Eric! When did the freeze frame thing became popular?

[@jerrybungard7107]

Gm started using it in I think 93 or 94

[@AntonioClaudioMichael]

Great video Eric O

[@wizard1800]

Great video as always! I just need to invest in a good scan tool.

[@alexolivera7490]

Good video amigo.

[@speralta1]

Hi Eric, do you know if there is a place to find the same kind of code setting criteria for the DIYers? I noticed that you used Identifix to find that information. However, not sure that is a viable option for the diy guy. Thanks!

[@deanh7190]

5:06 in dark Maine ~ Mornin' all!

[@SimplyDiagnostics]

Great learning video, thanks for sharing Eric :)

[@allanandrowey5219]

Hey Steve, you going to call in on Eric whilst on the staten island Express? Ivan too? A meet up with all 3 would be magic

[@GNX157]

Back thru the 80''s We/I were only dreaming of features like this in the computer and scanner. Back when we thought a mixture control solenoid pulsing the metering rods up and down inside a Rochester carb seemed advanced.

Heard that the plastic therm cover & firewall hose fittings fail after time from heat. Is it worth changing them out while you have it apart?

[@haywire17]

539 Units of "none"... Gotta love it.... Hopefully the makers of said scan tool(s) are watching...

[@halfton1979]

another great video

[@billburkart9087]

Do you find that the thermostat gets blamed more than it's at fault? I've come across overheating problems that were the fault of the radiator cap.

[@locutusofborg7122]

Eric, what's your opinion on Motorad thermostats---which they claim their thermostats are garunteed NOT to ever stick in the closed position?

[@Mr.Humphrey60]

Thank you sir (S.M.A)

[@lackeydehackey405]

Appreciate the FF lecture, but why not kick in the Classic SMA verify your diagnosis like measure the ECT sensor with engine running and the lazer beam thermo on the thermostat cover. What about a video on thermostat dunk tank? Wifey had me buy a new Pyrex graduate when I dunked it in hers.

[@raiderhawk]

Imo, FF data should always be reviewed. No such thing as too much data, provided it is correctly interpreted

[@drfalcon4102]

Replaced a ton of those back in the day,

[@williambell9068]

Work and BS are the two things that can make me sneeze like that!

[@smms1276]

👍 SWEET VID 👍

[@davjociestanski5743]

Eric. This video. All so tell us about scan tool how you have to use more than one at times 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@farnzy2011]

Hey Eric, do you have any experience with an isuzu trooper?

[@allanandrowey5219]

What year trooper. Got loads of them here un new Zealand

[@weldingjunkie]

😂 Autel for the win again boom lol I love my VERUS Edge but I’m glad I have my Autel Elite for the holes that the snap on leaves open.

[@ablackformula]

Have you ever been misled by freeze frame? Working on my buddies 2000 Jeep Cherokee 4.0L cylinder 3 misfire. Freezeframe shows rpm at 0 (but 13% load and engine never stalled,) closed loop, intake map, vehicle speed all at 0. Suspecting a possible loss of 5v ref, but engine coolant temp shows 194. Short term and long term fuel trims have high values. One problem just put me at a fork in the road -- investigate cyl 3 misfire or start checking pcm powers grounds and 5v ref??

[@jackwood8307]

The days of shade tree wrenching are long gone!

[@aleblanc3547]

Good stuff, but now I can't get that song outta my head, Eric! :>)

[@richardcranium5839]

FREEZE FRAME freeze frame FREEZE FRAME freeze frame FREEZE FRAME

[@tiredagain6722]

I have a great idea...a universal wireless dlc adapter. Includes all protocols and allows multitasking so all your scan tools could connect at once. When one fails simply pick up the next and move on. I'm sure there are hundreds of reasons it wouldn't work but a guy can dream...

[@Anonymous-it5jw]

Good Morning. It’s 5:01.