What resource should a technician use when a car fails a smog due to incomplete monitors?

When a car fails a smog test due to incomplete monitors, the most relevant resource for a technician to utilize is the On-Board Diagnostic Test Reference. This reference provides critical information about the various on-board diagnostic (OBD) systems in a vehicle, including the specific monitors that need to be completed for a vehicle to pass emissions testing.

Understanding the OBD system is essential, as it allows the technician to identify which monitors are not yet ready and what repairs or driving cycles are necessary to complete them. Different monitors test various emissions control systems and components; hence, knowing the individual requirements for each monitor is crucial for diagnosing the issue accurately.

While the other resources like the Diagnostic Trouble Codes Manual and the Emissions Repair Guide may provide helpful information and guidance on repairs and codes, they do not specifically address the readiness of the monitors like the On-Board Diagnostic Test Reference does. The Service Manual may also contain broad information about the vehicle but lacks the targeted insights needed for addressing incomplete monitors directly. Therefore, accessing the On-Board Diagnostic Test Reference enables technicians to focus on achieving monitor readiness, which is vital for a successful smog test result.