Coincidence?

[Millermagic]

The gas definitely didn't cause it imo.

[Huney1]

"The gas definitely didn't cause it imo." Well, yet another one of lifes mysteries unsolved and we will never know because the codes weren't pulled. Surprised Canadian auto parts stores don't do free code pulls because it helps them sell parts.

[Gardd]

If there is a garage that will pull codes for free, it's not around where I live. Our local Canadian Tire said they couldn't just do a scan; they wanted me to make an appointment for three days later which meant I'd have had some service charges, even if minimal. Similar for my Ford dealer and a local repair chain. Now, I don't mind paying -- my main problem is that the earliest appointment I could get would be days away. There is an independent garage close by but I don't trust 'em at all (a neighbor had trouble with them a couple of years ago).

Since the car was running just fine I decided to take a wait-and-see approach -- and I'm kinda glad I did. When / if the light comes on again I'll make an appointment.

I remember when I had this problem a while back, the SES light went out on its own a few days later, which surprised me. But that problem had a clear cause which I was able to identify and fix on my own. This time around though... now I'm wondering if maybe a sensor might have a slightly loose wire or something, that's causing an intermittent fault.

Question: I've seen two models of OBD II code readers on sale at Canadian Tire. Are these things worth it? Even though they're not that cheap I wonder if one might be a good investment & handy tool to have around.

TGIF!

[Huney1]

It takes about two minutes to pull the codes then they go to a computer and punch them in and trace it down from there. Some codes relate to a multitude of problems so there is a structured order the technician goes thru eliminating them one by one until he ends up with the main problem.

I doubt it's a loose wire because the computer senses a problem a few times then turns the light on. Problem goes away and the computer doesn't see a problem for a few days then it goes off. Probably nothing serious but the hand held code puller is about the size of two packs of cigarettes cost $70. bucks. Not familiar with the tech lingo so code puller is the best I can do. Not suppose to post links here so Google some and you'll find one.

By the way, my PCM went bad in my 03 Vulcan and Federal boys dictate emissions related components are warrantied for 8 yrs of 80,000 miles. The guy reset the CEL and now it is running fine, so next time the light comes on I'll take it to the Ford place and let them fix it for free. Yes Sir, you got'ta love them freebies!

"TGIF!" A big 10-4 and roger that good Buddy! Got'ta go to work so have a nice day and super week end!

[shorod]

Many shops won't perform free code reads around here either, however just about all of the chain parts stores will read the codes at no charge. Did you only check with shops and not stores?

In my opinion, a decent scan tool is a must have tool for a shade tree technician or DIY'er. By the way, I learned years ago that the proper term for someone who works on modern cars is a "technician." Modern cars require a technical background in more than just mechanics to properly and efficiently troubleshoot and repair.

Anyway, I've owned an EQUUS scan tool, AutoXray EZ-Scan 5000, and OTC Genisys scan tool. Never owned an Actron, but they appear similar to the AutoXray. These tools are a bit more of an investment than a general code reader, but they are probably worth it. They will read the code(s) (current and history), display the code(s) with the description, and also incorporate a datastream function. The datastream function allows you to monitor certain sensors in real-time to see how they respond to different engine loads, throttle input, etc. The AutoXray and OTC Genisys can also interface to a PC to display and store the data, as well as print reports. Once you find the fault and repair it, the tool will let you go in and clear the codes as well.

-Rod

[Huney1]

"Question: I've seen two models of OBD II code readers on sale at Canadian Tire. Are these things worth it? Even though they're not that cheap I wonder if one might be a good investment & handy tool to have around." See shorod's reply above this one.

I have this weeks Pep Boys flyer and it has an Actron Pocket OBD II Scanner #CP9125 $84.99 regular price $74.99 Promo Price - $10.00 mail in rebate $64.99 after mail in rebate. The next Actron is $99.99 after rebate and next one $199.98 after rebate. AutoXray Code Scout 1500 #1500K $149.99

I'd get one but all we have to do is swing into a parts store and they do it for free, so why spend my bucks when I don't have to. "A penny saved is a penny earned."

WOW! I found a bunch on mark down here. http://www.amazon.com/gp/browse.html...?node=15707381