SES Diag. Without Reader

DEAR AF Forum Members,

I was reading awhile ago on the internet how you can read your SES light without a reader. Wondering if anyone knows how to do this. I have a 1996 Firebird with a 3.8L and the light comes and goes now and then but nothing is noticably wrong with my car. Anyone know how I can read that code without buying and expensive code scanner?

DEAR AF Forum Members,

I was reading awhile ago on the internet how you can read your SES light without a reader. Wondering if anyone knows how to do this. I have a 1996 Firebird with a 3.8L and the light comes and goes now and then but nothing is noticably wrong with my car. Anyone know how I can read that code without buying and expensive code scanner?
Your Input Is Greatly Appreciated!!
Scott
ya, go to auto zone, they will read it for free. All 96 and up ones they do.

I don't think you can pull the codes from an ODBII computer like you could on the older ones.

Like posted above....take it to AutoZone. They will plug it in for free and give you the code and a basic description.

Might be something wrong with your EGR. My SES light used to come on and off like that, and when I ran it for codes at Discount Auto Parts that turned out to be the problem. And they can actually run codes for 95's and up. The 95's have the OBDII connector under the dash, but have an OBDI system. So it's compatible with their code reader.

Well the soultion is... code number PO 1870 Which is

Manufacturer Controlled Transmission
P1870
Transmission AUtomatic 4-Wheel Drive Indicator
Switch Circuit Short To Battery...

Does this mean anything to anyone? The old lady at auto zone God bless her, i wasent sure if she knew what she was talking about said something about a Transmission Speed Sensor. Has anyone been in my situation please i need help!!

96 Firebird 3.8

Best thing I found....

P1870 = Transmission Component Slipping = Emissions Related = *DTC P1870 will be stored in PCM history, Inhibit TCC engagement, Inhibit 4th gear if in hot mode, Freeze 1-2 shift adapts from being updated *Maximum line pressure

Common problem (i.e. manufacturing defect) on 4L60/4L60E GM automatic transmissions. The TCC Regulator Valve wears prematurely, which causes excessive leakage past the valve, which lowers the oil pressure. The problem is most noticeable when the transmission oil is hot (thinner). Usually accompanied with harsh 1-2 shifts and sometimes excessive engine coolant temperatures. The issue here is that converter lockup is happening at the wrong times and excessive heat is generated because the converter is not locked when cruising. If you do nothing, the transmission will eventually crater. Changing the transmission oil frequently and easing up on gas during the 1-2 shift will buy you some time.

GM’s answer is you buy a new transmission or at the least, a new control body. A company named “Sonnex” has an improved TCC Regulator Valve Kit that will correct the problem but requires an above average skill level to install.
www.transmissionspecialty.com

Might be something wrong with your EGR. My SES light used to come on and off like that, and when I ran it for codes at Discount Auto Parts that turned out to be the problem. And they can actually run codes for 95's and up. The 95's have the OBDII connector under the dash, but have an OBDI system. So it's compatible with their code reader.
Now i have a 94 where my service engine light pops on and off erraticly. I have some kind of connector under my dash but dont know what kind it is. any help on telling the dI and dII sys apart

Pretty sure 1994 should be OBD I.
Don't quote me though. :lol:

If it is can auto zone still do the reads even if it cost money i need to figure out what it is making my lights come on its driving me crazy