How to check codes?

[maxsideburn]

Hey guys, I know in most cars there's an easy way to check codes using the CEL light. The CEL light on my 92 Talon TSI just came on, how do I go about checking the codes?

 

[Wells]

The easiest way would be to go to your local car parts store, and ask to borrow their code reader. They should let you borrow it if you use it out in their parking lot.

 

[maxsideburn]

um...but this car is a 92, OBDII didn't start until 96 and trust me, the idiots around here will NOT have an OBDI scanner.

how do I read them manually? there's usually some trick, like short out a diagnostic connector, turn the key a certain position a certain # of times, etc... to get the CEL to blink and let you read the codes.

 

[andymoraitis]

The "keydance" method for reading codes only works on the N/T ECU. This thread should get you pointed in the right direction. Reference post #5 for the information you need:

http://www.dsmtuners.com/forums/showthread.php?t=4967&highlight=read+codes

If you have a friend with a logger you can also pull the codes that way.

Good luck and let us know what you find out,

Andy

 

[steve]

It's real simple. The DLC connector is attached to the fuse box by your left foot.
The upper left pin is 1 (data) and the lower right pin is 12 (ground). If you have a error code it's being output on those pins as we speak or a heart beat (on-off repeating) if nothing is wrong. A voltmeter, 12v LED, 12v piezo buzzer, etc will let you read the codes. Long pulses are ten's digits and short one units.

You would have found this in the VFAQ.
http://www.vfaq.com/mods/wayback/BradBauer/electrical/code.html

Steve