Accessing Check Engine Codes?

[rtracy]

I've got the infamous Ford "Check Engine" light coming on in my '95 Aerostar. Took it to the dealership; but when they hooked it up to the computer, it cleared the memory.

On my Dodge truck, you can access the stored error codes by turning the key off and on several times (displays the codes on the digital odometer).

I had an old Pontiac Sunbird and you could get its codes by shorting accross two contacts in the fuse block (the check engine light would blink the codes).

Can you do the same thing on a Ford Aerostar? I've scoured the web and can't find any info.

Thanks!

[BMW_4.4i]

A friend of mine had the same problem. He couldn't access the codes either. I am not sure if there is a way.

[MoeD]

There is a way. You have to short two contacts under the hood then use a analog multimeter to read the needle sweeps to count the codes. Pickup a Haynes book on automotive codes and it will explain it. Here in Canada the books sales for around $27

[BMW_4.4i]

Thats good to know. Thanks!

[jack bowsky]

I have a 1997 Ford Aerostar. I posted the problem in a new thread but thought I might get a responce here too. My "check engine light" come on. There does not seem to be any engine problems to warrent it.
I have disconnect the battery and reconnect which solves the problem only for a few days. I noticed that a recall on the electrol system came out in 99. The nature of the recall seems to be something that might effect the faulty "check engine" light. Any comment, suggestions or help? Thanks.

[foodstamp]

Originally Posted by rtracy

I've got the infamous Ford "Check Engine" light coming on in my '95 Aerostar. Took it to the dealership; but when they hooked it up to the computer, it cleared the memory.

On my Dodge truck, you can access the stored error codes by turning the key off and on several times (displays the codes on the digital odometer).

I had an old Pontiac Sunbird and you could get its codes by shorting accross two contacts in the fuse block (the check engine light would blink the codes).

Can you do the same thing on a Ford Aerostar? I've scoured the web and can't find any info.

Thanks!

Look about halfway down the page on this link... http://www.dalidesign.com/hbook/eectest.html
The test plugs will be located under hood on drivers side.

BTW... Most part stores (even WalMart) sells the scan tool for around $20. Pic of tool... http://www.toolsource.com/OstImages/...ages/50112.jpg

foodstamp