However, the OBD codes will always appear on your scanner when it is plugged into the OBD port or data link connector (DLC). Tip: It is very important to write these codes down in the same order as displayed on the scanner.If there are multiple codes, they may cycle through or you may have to press a button to view the next code. Navigate to a heading called “Read Codes” and select it.
FORD ENGINE CODES LIST HOW TO
Each scan tool will have different instructions on how to operate it, so read yours carefully. The scan tool will power up as soon as it has been plugged in. The scan tool’s male end will only fit one way onto the vehicle’s connector. Step 2: Plug your OBD scan tool into the connector. The connector is a female 16-pin connector that is trapezoidal in shape. It legally has to be within 3 feet of the steering wheel and must not require tools to access it. The most common mounting location for an OBD port is under the driver’s side of the dash near the pedals.
FORD ENGINE CODES LIST CODE
Certain scanners may give information on what the revealed code means, but most will just give a five digit number and letter combination.įollow these 4 steps to insert and read the OBD scanner: The scanner allows you to communicate with the computer and retrieve the trouble codes. In order to find out the reason the light is illuminated, you need to read the codes through the OBD port. Your Check Engine Light is illuminated when a fault is detected with one of your vehicle’s monitored systems. Find a safe place to stop, turn off your car, and have it diagnosed and repaired before you continue to use it. Warning: If the Check Engine Light comes on and flashes, it indicates a very serious concern.If the engine light comes on due to a serious concern, you risk damaging your car further by not repairing the issue right away. When your Check Engine Light comes on, you should get it checked out quickly by a certified mechanic. This is why it is important for someone who does not have a lot of automotive knowledge to not assume what a code means. Since there are hundreds of possible OBD codes, there are also hundreds of possible reasons for the light, including: Unfortunately, obvious and helpful vehicle symptoms do not always accompany an illuminated Check Engine Light. OBD codes are most frequently referred to as OBD-II, which has been the code type since 1996. Tip: OBD codes refers to nearly the same thing as DTC codes, therefore you will often hear them used interchangeably in the automotive industry.There are two acronyms to be aware of when it comes to discovering more about Check Engine Lights. While that sounds daunting, with a little patience, tackling basic diagnostics will give you useful knowledge about your vehicle and will also allow that Check Engine Light to do what it is really supposed to do: be your guide.
There are literally hundreds of different codes a Check Engine Light can represent. By preparing yourself with a little automotive knowledge, a helpful tool, and general background information on what this light is actually trying to tell you, you will not only gain more peace of mind, you will also develop a closer relationship to your vehicle.ĭiagnostic trouble codes (DTC) are automotive computer codes stored by the on-board computer diagnostic system (OBD) in your vehicle. It can be quite intimidating to see that little light on your vehicle’s dashboard suddenly illuminate, but in reality, it is not something that should paralyze you in fear right away. The Check Engine Light turning on is usually a topic car owners try to avoid talking too much about.