I have a 98 F-150 and I'm getting the check engine light. Can I pull the codes without a store-bought reader? I used to be able to do this with my Ranger by counting the flashes of the check engine light. Can someone point me to some info?

Thanks!

 

One other thing. If I can't pull the codes without the reader, is there any software I can download for a palm pilot, and any sort of adapter to use? I just don't want to spend $260 on a reader if I can avoid it. Thanks!

 

http://www.obdii.com/
http://www.autotap.com/
http://www.autoxray.com/index.htm

I know they make software for Palms, but not sure who. Here's some sites I found.


Rick

 

Thanks for the info Rick, but do you know if it's possible to get the codes without a reader? I"ve noticed the codes are alpha-numeric instead of just numeric so I'm guessing probably not..

Anyone?

 

BadDreams
enter "auterraweb" in your search engine for Palm interface. expect to pay $100+ for software & cables. I'm not sure where your getting alpha-numeric codes but you will need a code scanner or cable & software for a palm or laptop to plug into the obdII connector.

 

Autozone will read the codes for free. Not all their employees are trained to use the scan tool, usually it's a manager or an assistant.

 

There is a way to pull the codes without a reader. It requires a certain degree of rigging and patience. I am not sure on the process but you can do a google search for FORD ENGINE CODE or something to that effect, and make sure you put your year model in. It basically involved shorting two pins in your "plug" for the tool and sticking the probes of a multimeter in certain spots. Apparantly you can watch the times the needle jumps and pull it that way. I ran across it in hopes of finding a problem with my Mom's expedition. I was leary of trying it just because i am not a fan of sticking anything in plugs or outlets that werent made for it. If Autozone will read them for free, you should definately try it out.

 

Dodge, that was exactly how I did it with my 89 ranger. It's all low voltage wiring so it's not really a dangerous scenario. I just wasn't sure if I could do it with a new rig. But maybe I'll just cough up the $150 for a code reader. I'm sure it will more than pay for itself since most mechanics charge that much for a couple hours of shop time.

 

Just in case you have not found these by youself yet...

http://www.aeswave.com./Palm/CJ2/index.htm
http://www.obd-2.com/index.html

I went to Murray's auto store a couple of weeks ago and they can "lease" the scan tool for free: you pay $400 to get it but they'll return the money when you return the tool. You can keep it as long as you want though...
Good luck!

 

you can also access codes through your odometer its called a dealer test mode just push your trip button as you start your truck then release when it says test and then use the trip button to go through the test there is a dtc mode that will tell you the codes your pcm is reading

 

I've organized a Group Purchase for the OBD II Scan Tool:

http://www.obd-2.com/ . . .

If you're interested let me know! We can get 40% off a single unit, making like $73.00, and 30% off the Triple Combo . . . !

Bob

Oops! 'swampview@budweiser.com'

 

The dealer test mode is probably what you should try first.

To do it put the key in and turn as far forward as you can without starting. then hold down odometer reset until it reads test. then let go keep pressing to cycle through the codes.

you can also start the truck after the test comes on to take advantage of the digital tachometer or speedometer, or even fuel left in the tank.