How do I access stored trouble codes?

My 2000 Grand Am service engine soon light is on, and I know that usually means the computer is storing a trouble code. Do I really need to take the car in to the dealer?

Does anyone know how to access the computer? A lot of GM's you can read trouble codes by shorting 2 points out (somewhere), and counting the number / sequence the service engine soon light blinks. Can anyone tell me if this is the case with the 2000 Grand AM, and if not, how to do it?

I already tried to reset the computer by removing the leads off the battery, no luck.

I appreciate any help anyone can give me.

Tom

I'm not sure about the crossing of the pins but I know you don't have to go to a dealer to remove them. Any sort of scanner that is OBD II compatible is capable of doing what you need. Uusally any automotive parts store will carry a small scanner for removing codes. They usually run less than a hundred bucks or not much more for you're basic one. If you know someone that has a Snap On scanner it would be better. These scanners can give you a description of the related code that you are retrieving and it has a trouble shooting section in it.

Codes for OBD-II must be read with an obd-ii compliant scan tool. Autozone will do it for free if you have one in your area. Do a search on the 'service engine soon' problem. Seems like others have had it and a lot of time it's been a light bulb burned out.