| In order to scan your car for codes, you must first locate the diagnostic connector. It will be under the drivers side dash. Here is an example of its location. Your vehicle may be in a little different spot. If you do not have a car code reader, many of the large national parts store chains will scan your cars computer for free. |
| On todays newer vehicles (1996-and up, OBDII), the diagnostic terminal is what powers up the scan tool. If the scan tool does not power up after plugging in to the connector, you will need to check fuses. Different vehicles use different fuses to power this connector. |
| After reading the codes(s) and the short description, you will need to use a diagnostic chart to pinpoint the problem. Just because the scanner shows, lets say, a code for the intake air temperature sensor, does not necessarily mean that the sensor is bad. |
The most basic scanners will just read trouble codes from the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). A little higher
priced scanners will read codes, and give some live data streams. The high end scanners will do this, and read
other computers such as Body Control Module(BCM), Anti-lock Brake module(ABS), Airbag module(SIR), Door
modules, 4-wheel drive modules, etc. These will also be able to control devices in a given circuit to go along with
diagnostic charts, and run preprogrammed test, and re-program replacement computers.
priced scanners will read codes, and give some live data streams. The high end scanners will do this, and read
other computers such as Body Control Module(BCM), Anti-lock Brake module(ABS), Airbag module(SIR), Door
modules, 4-wheel drive modules, etc. These will also be able to control devices in a given circuit to go along with
diagnostic charts, and run preprogrammed test, and re-program replacement computers.
| Need help with your code? ASK ! |
| How to scan for computer (PCM) DTC codes on GM vehicles |
| Some popular car repair articles |
Car maintenance - A list of some common auto maintenance checks that you can do yourself. Check
fluid levels. Adjust tire pressures. Drive belt inspection, etc. Pictures videos, and more.
fluid levels. Adjust tire pressures. Drive belt inspection, etc. Pictures videos, and more.
Automotive questions - Choose your vehicle by Make and Model and read articles our expert
mechanics have answered.
Or browse through our
Chevy questions page.
Pontiac questions page.
Buick questions page.
Oldsmobile questions page.
mechanics have answered.
Or browse through our
Chevy questions page.
Pontiac questions page.
Buick questions page.
Oldsmobile questions page.
| 12-9-10 The heads up display on a 05 Grand Prix won't come on. |
Comments
| 12-11-10 Check all the fuses. Make sure the switch is turned on. |
| 1-6-11 i am trying to find the meaning of 2 codes on my 2005 trailblazer they are P0641 and also 2138 |
| The first is a 5 volt reference problem. Either a wiring problem, or a faulty electronic throttle, accelerator pedal, coolant fan speed sensor, AC pressure sensor, fuel tank pressure sensor or Secondary air Injection valve circuit. The other relates to the accelerator pedal position sensors 1 - 2 incorrect correlation. |
| 2-4-11 my vehicle will reverse but it wont drive. |
| 4-9-11 trying to find out what c1295 code is on a chevy van adventure. |
Download Our New Automotive E-Book Learn More
| 8-17-11 what does error only mean on the code reader |
| 10-3-11 I'm trying to find out why when I press on the gas I get this squealing noise. |
| Sounds like the scanner is not linking up properly with the car computer. |
| 10-6-11 code p1870 for 1996 GMC jimmy. |
| P1870 is transmission component slipping. Either your have a bad trans or a solenoid problem. |
| Squealing is normally caused buy a bad belt or possibly a pulley. |
| 10-20-11 I have a code P2432 on an 07 Trail blazer it is idling rough and has knocking sound when revved up and stalls. |
| 10-20-11 I cannot find code for P0455,i think it has something to do with my tranny shifting hard from 1st to 2nd.2004 cavalier. |
| Code P0455 is a large EVAP system leak. Possibly a broken wire at the vent valve under the rear of your Chevy Cavalier. |
| 12-7-11 My 2001 Chevy Malibu won't start. It turns over but won't go. It also says CAL ERR on the radio and the dash wont light up to tell me the millage. |
| Too many things to list. Do you have spark, fuel pressure, injector signal, theft light etc. CAL ERR means your radio is locked. Odometer not lighting up is most likely a bad gauges cluster assembly. |
| 1-2-12 i have a 2005 Chrysler Sebring and everything is going on my odometer reading keeps blinking my check engine light,brake light, battery light slippery pavement light and my abs n brake light is all on and when i drive the flicker.... Please help me establish what i could be facing |
| 1-12-12 trans off light and abs lights won't go off on my 2000 Monte Carlo. |
| 1-12-12 Never heard of a transmission off light? |
| 1-20-12 2002 Toyota Camry , Trac off lights come on after putting car into drive won't go off. |
