Which code scanner?

[hemiguy]

Hi.
The abs and check engine lights have suddenly appeared in my Windstar, so I guess I should look into it. It's running fine and the brakes work ok. It just turned 90K miles, so is probably due for plugs. Until now I haven't had a bit of trouble with the engine or transmission, just a leak in the a/c.

Can anyone recommend a code scanner to purchase? It's a 1996 Windstar.

Thanks,
John

[road_rascal]

I have an Equus Innova 3100 OBD2 code reader/ scanner. I bought it about 3 years ago for around $129. I've seen them on ebay for around $70. It does the job.

[lewisnc100]

hemiguy, the cheaper code readers like the Equus mentioned or the Actrons etc. will read OBDII codes but will not read ABS codes. If you really want to read ABS codes its going to cost quite a bit more.

[wiswind]

You can get the codes read for free at AutoZone and some other auto part stores.
They will be reading the OBDII codes.....and not manufacturer specific codes.

If the check engine light is lit.....there will be a code in there that they can read.

If you have the codes read.....get the actual numeric code from them....
With the actual code....you can do a search in this forum to see what others have had cause the code.
Pay particular attention to posts from people with 1996 through 1998 years, as those years are the most similar to each other.

This may not solve the ABS light code....but it is a good place to start.

Take note that the CEL stays lit for a certain number of "cycles" after the problem is solved, unless it is cleared.
Clearing the CEL by disconnecting the battery for 15 minutes or so will work also, but it will also wipe out your radio station presets, and "drivability" information in the PCM......so it will take a while for the PCM to relearn the drivability information. While the PCM is relearning the drivability information, you my notice little things like the shift points of the transmission being different, etc.

[hemiguy]

Thanks for the replies, I'll try Autozone first and see what happens.

John

[lewisnc100]

John,

Autozone is a great option for getting the codes read assuming you're outside of California, just don't buy anything they tell you will fix the problem. Make sure to take the advice above and post the actual code numbers (not the error description) back here for help. Good luck.

[road_rascal]

If you go somewhere and get the codes read, write 'em down and look 'em up here:
http://www.iequus.com/support/obd2_definitions.php

[reekor]

The HICKOK 8008FA is the only scan tool that you'll ever need for your Windstar.

Originally Posted by hemiguy

Hi.
The abs and check engine lights have suddenly appeared in my Windstar, so I guess I should look into it. It's running fine and the brakes work ok. It just turned 90K miles, so is probably due for plugs. Until now I haven't had a bit of trouble with the engine or transmission, just a leak in the a/c.

Can anyone recommend a code scanner to purchase? It's a 1996 Windstar.

Thanks,
John

[road_rascal]

Originally Posted by reekor

The HICKOK 8008FA is the only scan tool that you'll ever need for your Windstar.

HA! I'd like to try and explain that expense to the misses . This looks like a great idea:

http://www.obd2allinone.com/

[wiswind]

I bought the scangauge for about $130.
It does not have all the features of what you can get to go with a computer, but it does not require a computer.
Just plug it into the OBDII port, and it will give you a readout of many items that the PCM is monitoring.

It looks like they made it smaller, and call it the scangaugeII......for about $170.

It is not absolutely required, as you can get the codes read for free, should the CEL come on.

However, it saves me having to go and have it done......I actually leave it plugged in all the time....
By doing this, it will not only give you the code, but it will save a snapshot of many readings that were present at the time the code was set.....such as engine temp, RPMs, etc



www.scangauge.com