Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) What's the best way to read/remove trouble codes?

[T Smith]

I don't have access to a dealer or someone with a scanner to read trouble codes on my truck.



Is there any software that I could interface with my laptop computer to read and remove the engine trouble codes?



Or is it better to get a scanner, and if so, which one?



I've seen some various ones on e-bay, but don't know the best way to go.



Thanks for your help!



T Smith

 

[Sticks]

http://obd-2.com/#home



A bunch of us TDR members are using this program. I have it and am nothing but satisfied with it.



I went the expensive route and got the tricom unit so I could pull codes from all makes and models that are OBD-II compliant.

 

[GMaines]

first off, find out what the codes are for... . I clear mine by disconnecting both neg. terminals of the batteriesfor about 5 minutes and then re connecting them. . good luck.

 

[DavidC]

I agree with sticks. I like to save the files when using the laptop and replay them at a later date to do comparisons of anything that may have changed. A great tool for clearing codes or diagnostics.



Dave

 

[bmoeller]

Don't know if the scanners that are at Autozone will work on our trucks or not, but they may. They should have one that they will let you use free of charge.

 

[T Smith]

Sticks:



Is the Tricom unit very user friendly?



I'm somewhat computer literate, but not an expert, so am looking for something fairly easy to get around with.



I'd also be interested in the multiple car capability.



Thanks for the reply.



T Smith

 

[Sticks]

The tricom is just a single unit that Alex Pepper sells that hooks up to all OBD-II vehicles, rather than buying one for each communication protocol (3).



The program is easy to use, it would be better if there was an instruction manual. For the price compared to what you can buy at an auto parts store, you get tons more with the program for the laptop.



You can go to the link in my first post and download the program and play around with one of the sample scans that is included with it. If you decide to buy it, he will send out a serial cable, the OBD-II connection plug, and a key code to unlock the program so you can connect to the vehicles.

 

[mcoleman]

The Autozone scanners will work for the OBD-II stuff. I just recently had mine scanned for a p0237. However for the 1693 code you will probably need to take it to Cummins to get a read on that.