codes question "duh"

[Schicken bone]

i am still new to tdr and have posted a few posts but i read ALOT. i keep seeing alot of questions about codes. 1 what is a descent code reader? 2 am i right when i ASSUME that it works by plugging into the trucks outlet under the dash? my truck runs GREAT but i would like to now if it should give me a problem. 04. 5 6spd 4x4 qc. thanks

 

[rbattelle]

First off, yes you're right a code reader plugs into the OBD-II diagnostic port located beneath the driver's side knee bolster.



As for what kind of code reader to get, there are a thousand choices out there. Too many to list here. A Google search on "scan tool" will provide an array of choices. However, there is a way you can retrieve vehicle codes for free, if you're only interested in being able to check what they are. I think you cycle the key 3 times between "RUN" and "OFF" and the codes will display on the odometer.



If I'm wrong someone please correct me.



-Ryan

 

[JVolpe]

I agree with rbattelle, if you just want to know what codes are present the on/off sequence is good enough. Then you can look up many sites that have code explanations. If you are lucky an online DC tech will explain the exact DC Code specific trigger event and you will probably know what is wrong and how to correct.



I have a Innova 3100 Digital OBDII Code Reader that I bought used pretty cheap. I is ok for most generic OBDII scan operations. I think it will clear most generic OBDII DCTs, but I doubt it will clear DC specific stored codes or data. There are a number of very good software Scan Tools/Utilities that provide a lot of data and insight into the engine operating states. But its kinda overkill. You see a code, you find out what caused it and then figure out who is gonna fix it. Just my 2 cents.

 

[JCleary]

Today I was trying to see how many hours were on my truck (hold the trip meter button while key is in "run" for 6 seconds), and before I figured that out, I held down the trip button and turned the key to run.



The gauges went through some sort of cycle, then it said "code" in the odometer display, and showed a code.



Is this another way to access them?

 

[DieselLady]

DieselLady

Today I was trying to see how many hours were on my truck (hold the trip meter button while key is in "run" for 6 seconds), and before I figured that out, I held down the trip button and turned the key to run.



The gauges went through some sort of cycle, then it said "code" in the odometer display, and showed a code.



Is this another way to access them?

This is a self test of the instrument cluster and lights. you hold down the trip meter untill the CHEC shows in the odometer and turn on the key. If there is a problem with your instrument cluster it will give you a code. If you can get ahold of a manual it will give you the code description. A manual is a really good investment.