How to retrieve check engine light codes?

[dbassett74]

My mom has a 2002 Grand Am and the check engine line started coming on shortly after some guy ran over the left front corner of the car with his truck and completely ripped out the headlight assembly and ripped the bumper. Don't know why this would make the check engine light come one. Only thing I can think of is that the air inlet tube is right there and maybe it's getting too much air so it's running lean. But that's only a guess..

Anyway, back to the subject. My 89 Camaro allows me to stick a wire and short 2 terminals in the diag tester connector and it starts flashing out the code. Can this be done in the Grand Am as well? I rather do this myself so I don't have to pay anyone. Any help on how to do this would be appreciated.

[Chameleon-kat]

Some places, such as auto-zone, will scan the code for free, and can reset it (of course it will come back on if problem still exists)

[Flatrater]

Check engine light or service vehicle soon light? Their is a difference!