OBD II codes

What kind of equipment do I need to read OBD codes from a Pontiac Trans Sport 2.3 16 V 96 model?

TX to me self this time :iceslolan I found a lot of info on this at http://www.automotiveforums.com/t894982-obd_confusing_me.html

Also use Google!
Example ''Troubleshoot <make><model><p-code>
Troubleshoot jag p0420 & p0430

what kind of codes or prodlems are you having:iceslolan

what kind of codes or prodlems are you having:iceslolan

All kinds of codes in general. I will read them by myselves instead of paying a workshop for the job :iceslolan

if u give the code i will tell u what if means and the procedure to repair if possible

if u give the code i will tell u what if means and the procedure to repair if possible

You miss understand me :smile: I will build my own equipment to connect to a laptop, to read the error codes from the ALDL. I have found the wiring diagram and are looking for a place where I can order the components for building the equipment :smile:

I have found the wiring diagram and are looking for a place where I can order the components for building the equipment :smile:

from Ebay, from www.elfa.se, or from a local electronic store, if there is any.

I even think I have some of the components left over. Send me a message if you are interested in them.

from Ebay, from www.elfa.se (http://www.elfa.se), or from a local electronic store, if there is any.

I even think I have some of the components left over. Send me a message if you are interested in them.

Already got the parts from elfa.se. Thanks anyway :smile:

:smile: nicke66, Can you give me a feedback on what type interface you build, what car you used it on, what software you used and the experience?

Already got the parts from elfa.se. Thanks anyway :smile:

:smile: nicke66, Can you give me a feedback on what type interface you build, what car you used it on, what software you used and the experience?

I have built the interface with a MAX232 circuit, after Carsten Meyer and used the DOS software written by Manfred Stuhlfelder. You will find the curcuit and software at www.pontiac-interface.de. I have a 3.8 -95 but the interface and software is also working for the european 2.3 model. I connect the interface to the lighter plug for +12V and ground, and the M-pin in the ALDL connector for data transfer.

You will need an old laptop with DB9 serial connector. Any USB to serial interface will not work. You will need to run in real DOS to be sure the software is working properly. It is possible to download a bootable CD image with the software from the above website.

The software is working great and is easy to use. You will get any present or stored code
with description. It is also possible to run the software in live mode and monitor values from sensors and other values in the control modules. The software is a little out of date as it is running in DOS but it is the best available, and the most easy to use for this car. It works with all control modules in the car.


If you have any more question, just ask.

[quote=nicke66;6364758]I have built the interface with a MAX232 circuit, after Carsten Meyer quote]

Thank you for your prompt response.:smile:
Have built with MAX232ACPE and tried with USB to Serial interface but had no signals. Now I see why !
Also! I did NOT run the program in dos!!! :banghead:

Have another question! On Carsten Mayer form (HERE), (http://home.online.no/~rivers/C.M..png)capacitors are 4.7 uF. (Did you build after this form?)

But on the Peter Gerganos form (HERE) (http://home.online.no/~rivers/P.G..png), you can reduce them to 1 uF if these are readily at hand, or to 0.1 uF if you use the MAX232A
What is the most appropriate form :confused:

[quote=nicke66;6364758]I have built the interface with a MAX232 circuit, after Carsten Meyer quote]

Thank you for your prompt response.:smile:
Have built with MAX232ACPE and tried with USB to Serial interface but had no signals. Now I see why !
Also! I did NOT run the program in dos!!! :banghead:

Have another question! On Carsten Mayer form (HERE), (http://home.online.no/~rivers/C.M..png)capacitors are 4.7 uF. (Did you build after this form?)

But on the Peter Gerganos form (HERE) (http://home.online.no/~rivers/P.G..png), you can reduce them to 1 uF if these are readily at hand, or to 0.1 uF if you use the MAX232A
What is the most appropriate form :confused:

USB to serial will definite not work. Running in DOS-windows under Win98 or Win2000 might partly work, but to be sure to get it to work, always run i real DOS.

Yes, I built it after that form. I do not think the capacity is that critical. 4.7 or 3.3 uF (as in Garganos form) is probably just a academic question. Both seams to work. Note that Garganos form take power from the computer, and also work for the old 160 baud ALDL, used in the 3.1 engine. However, another software has to be used.

To use for the 3.8 (or 2.3) I prefer the Meyer form.

[quote=BuzziBi;6364784]



Thanks for the answers nick66 :jump3: Very helpful. May to the force be with you :ylsuper:

I bought this OBD-II reader for $30 here. http://www.dealextreme.com/details.dx/sku.28528

Works great on my 98 trans sport running windows 7 on laptop.