DeusSix

Hope this isn't a repeat topic, but I couldn't find anything on the boards that indicated an answer to this question.

Is there an "on board" way to check trouble codes? Check engine light came on last night on my way home from work. I'm aware of a simple procedure for some Chrysler vehicles to verify what the code is, but didn't know if such a thing existed for Ford.

Anyone have guidance on how to check this without equipment?

Thanks,
Tony

petrock

I know what your talking about for chrystlers (although I have never been able to get it to work on my Dodge Durango), but don't know of one for Fords. However, that doesn't mean there isn't one. I would take it to your local auto parts store. Most will read the codes for you for free. Call ahead first of course.

I ended up buying my own code reader a few years ago. Saved my, and quite a few friends, bacon a bunch of few times. Paid for itself a couple times over.

DeusSix

Cool, thanks. What kind of code reader did you get and how much did it cost?

My buddy's a former Chrysler tech and he showed me how to verify trouble code on my wife's Jeep GC. Was hoping for an on board procedure for the 'stang, but ironically enough the CEL was off as of this morning.

Have no idea what it was or what happened.

petrock

Its a Equus 3130 Innova code reader. A few years ago it was brand new and was around $250. You can get it for around $130 now. There are cheaper and more expensive readers, as well as ones with less and more features. This one is around the middle ground, in my opinion.

Hope that helps...

compdude97

If all you are looking for is to read codes you can pick up a code reader at your local auto parts store, or online for $50 - $60. There really isn't much need for one of the fancier ones if all you want is to see what code is being thrown.

Blue07V6

I check mine for free. O'rielly has an OBDII code reader the will loan you free. At least my local one does.

psyviperx

yup, most of your chain stores, O'Riley, Advance, AutoZone will read them for you if you ask 'em.

petrock

Yeah, that was my first suggestion in my first post. However, most shops won't let you leave the parking lot with the reader, so you have to time it so that the CEL is live when you pull into the shop otherwise you won't get any codes with the reader. Having the code reader handy for an intermittent CEL is invaluable. The other features (other then code reading) are also very handy. Engine & Tranny temps, 02 sensor readings etc etc etc. Saved me a bunch of time and cash over the years tracking down issues.