99 Exploer - Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Method

From: autozone.com
http://www.autozone.com/az/cds/en_us/0900823d/80/0e/2f/3a/0900823d800e2f3a/repairInfoPages.htm

"Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Method

The Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) on the dashboard may also be used to retrieve the stored codes. This method displays only the stored codes and does not allow any system investigation. It should only be used in field conditions where a quick check of stored codes is needed.
Follow the directions given previously for performing the scan tool procedure. To activate the tests, use a jumper wire to connect the signal return pin on the diagnostic connector to the Self-Test Input (STO) connector. The self-test input line is the separate wire and connector with or near the diagnostic connector.
Codes are transmitted by place value with a pause between the digits; Code 32 would be sent as 3 flashes, a pause and 2 flashes. A slightly longer pause divides codes from each other. Be ready to count and record codes; the only way to repeat a code is to recycle the system. This method may be used to read either 2 or 3 digit codes. The Continuous Memory codes are separated from the other codes by 6 seconds, a single flash and another 6 second delay."



Ok, so what holes do I connect the jumper wire into? So that I can read the flashing light for the code.

The part you are reading is for the OBDI system. It is good that you did the research, but you did not pay attention to the years they are posting. Your vehicle has an OBDII system and needs to be read with a scan tool. There is no provision to jump wires and rtetrieve the codes. Autozone will read them for free.

Thanks way2old, I just got back from Autozone and they tell me its the o2 after the cat. that is bad.

That's one thing you need to be careful of when getting Autozone or a similar store to read your codes. Sometimes they won't tell you the specific code, just "You need to replace...." The best thing to do is to get the actual code, in the form P0123 where 0123 will be a sequence of four digits, and educate yourself on the possible causes for that code.

Sure, a Bank 1, Sensor 2 slow to respond code could mean that the sensor is bad, but it could be due to vacuum leaks, a dirty MAF sensor, restricted air filter, etc. as well. Unless things have changed in the last few years, the employees at the big chain auto parts stores are not required to take any sort of automotive diagnostics training, and for their main job, they shouldn't need to. But, that's part of the reason you really should research the potential causes for certain codes and make an educated decision on what the next logical troubleshooting step should be.

They didn't happen to give the code, did they?

Please don't interpret my above thoughts to be negative toward you or the chain auto part store employees. That's not my purpose here, but rather to suggest that everyone needs to be an educated consumer. Afterall, that's what brought you to this forum, right?

-Rod