retrieving codes

[theconductor]

I plugged in the code reader today to see what I had. The only thing that happened was my fuel pump started running and wouldn't stop until I turned the reader off. No codes ever came across.

What the hell could be wrong? I thought that even I could figure how to get a code from my engine!


Kyle

 

[bloopbloob]

mine didnt work the first few times either, but i could hear the car doing checks. i cant for the life of me remember how i got it to pull codes though. sorry! no problems since then though. i'd just keep trying it, maybe play with the connections a bit....

 

[jrichker]

Dump the codes and see what the computer says is wrong…Codes may be present in the computer even if the Check Engine light isn’t on.

Here's the link to dump the computer codes with only a jumper wire or paper clip and the check engine light, or test light or voltmeter. I’ve used it for years, and it works great. You watch the flashing test lamp or Check Engine Light and count the flashes.

See http://www.troublecodes.net/Ford/

IF your car is an 86-88 stang, you'll have to use the test lamp or voltmeter method. There is no functional check engine light on the 86-88's except possibly the Cali Mass Air cars.

89 through 95 cars have a working Check Engine light. Watch it instead of using a test lamp.

Codes have different answers if the engine is running from the answers that it has when the engine isn't running. It helps a lot to know if you had the engine running when you ran the test.

Trouble codes are either 2 digit or 3 digit, there are no cars that use both 2 digit codes and 3 digit codes.

For those who are intimidated by all the wires & connections, see http://www.actron.com/product_detail.php?pid=16153 for what a typical hand scanner looks like. Normal retail price is about $30 or so at AutoZone or Wal-Mart.

Or for a nicer scanner see http://www.midwayautosupply.com/pc-7208-90-equus-digital-ford-code-reader-3145.aspx – It has a 3 digit LCD display so that you don’t have to count flashes or beeps.. Cost is $30.

 

[theconductor]

I have the scanner. I just can't get it to give codes. I won't even give the everything is okay code. I can hear things clicking, but in the end all that happens is the fuel pump stays running until I turn off the test. It doen'st stop and give any codes. I will try the "jumper and check engine light" method to see if I have any better luck.

Thanks

Kyle