Code Scanner/Readers

[Tom Higginbotham]

I've been reading the forums for a few weeks and noticed a lot of the messages relate to pulling/reading the codes.

I was wondering what a good reader would be and around how much $$$ it costs...

Thanks!


Tom

 

[PROPHET]

The only reader you need is a paper clip, turn ignition on but not to the point the engine starts and watch your check engine light flash...you count the flashes, lets say it flashes 3 then stops then 5 flashes then 6 flashes, your code would be 356, then wait for more codes if you happen to have more than one comung up.

Gen ones have a two digit code and gen twos have a three digit code.

You can find this procedure at www.shotimes.com

 

[twr]

Save your money, I piece of wire or a paper clip works fine and just count the CEL flashes. There are several references to how to read the codes. www.shotimes.com www.midwestsho.com to name a few.

 

[boggs3010]

ok I looked at the pages...no luck. Could some one hold my hand and give me a direct link?

 

[Hack]

Make sure you look both ways before crossing the street!
http://www.shotimes.com/php-bin/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&mode=thread&order=0&thold=0&sid=83

In all seriousness though, I picked up a code reader at the local autoparts store for $35. No sitting in the car with pad and pen counting flashes for me. The reader stores all codes and you can scroll back through. Super convenient and well worth the money to me.

 

[SinisterSHO]

I've never had good luck with doing the self test thing, I would always be writing down the numbers and it would start flashing again. Seeing that my buddy is a mechanic, if I ever really need to run codes, I ask him to bring his snap-on scanner home which does more than just give codes.

 

[MelectroK]

If your under the hood triggering the pins, how do you see the CEL?

 

[twr]

If your under the hood triggering the pins, how do you see the CEL?

Umm.. You jumper the pins with the car off, then get in the car turn the key on and watch. After the KOEO finishes, start the car for the KOER test.