FAQS Listing & Answers

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Diagnostic Tools

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Diagnostic Tools

Q: When I try to pull codes on my 1994-95 Camaro/Firebird/Trans Am the fan comes on, but no codes flash, why?

A: Unfortunately, this is a known problem with this type of "F" Body car, and the code reader will not work. These vehicles are transition vehicles from OBD I to OBD II diagnostics and will require the use of a scan tool.

Q: I'm getting a code 22 on my Ford Code Reader that will not clear and my check engine light is off.

A: Most likely you are getting a code 11 twice. You can tell by running the test again and watching to see if you get code 22 twice BEFORE the single flash separator code. Since each code repeats twice, you must get code 22 twice to have a code 22 in the system. Below animations illustrate these codes. In both examples, you will see a total of four flashes but the key is to notice where the short pauses and long pauses are.

Q: I'm getting a code 33 on my Ford Code Reader that will not clear and my check engine light is off.

A: Most likely you are getting a code 111 twice. You can tell by running the test again and watching to see if you get code 33 twice BEFORE the single flash separator code. Since each code repeats twice, you must get code 33 twice to have a code 33 in the system. Below animations illustrate these codes. In both examples, you see a total of six flashes but the key is to notice where the pauses and long pauses are.

Q: I've gotten a code and replaced the part mentioned in the code but the check engine light is still on or the code will not clear.

A: The code reader is meant to be a tool that will point you in the right direction of the problem. It will not necessarily tell you what part needs to be replaced. Rather it leads you to a system or circuit on the vehicle that will need further testing to isolate the cause of the code. To do this testing other tools and a good service manual may be required.

After making any repairs you should always do the clearing codes procedure. After completing that procedure run the car's engine until normal operating temperature is reached, then drive the vehicle. After driving the vehicle you should run the code checking procedure again. If none are present then the problem was fixed. If you get the same code or any other code then further repairs are needed. Follow the procedures listed in the manufacturer's service manual for a diagnostic procedure for that specific code.

Q: I've successfully pulled the code, now what?

A: Now, you have two options. You can take your car to your local mechanic, empowered by the knowledge of what system is causing the problem or you can attempt the repair yourself. If you decide to make your own repairs, you will probably need a factory service repair manual and recommended tools required to repair the problem. Inside the manual, you will find a flow chart that takes an automotive technician from the code to very specific testing procedures to isolate the cause of the code. Following this chart is the only way to know for certain if you have found the cause of the code.

Q: My 1996 or above vehicle is not covered on the application chart, is there any way I can retrieve my codes?

A: 1996 and newer vehicles use a different type of system called OBD II and requires a different tool to access its codes. Please see the INNOVA¨ 3100 OBD II Code Reader for additional information.

Q: Will my vehicle give me both two digit and three digit codes?

A: No. You will get one or the other. If you think you have a two-digit code followed by a three-digit code it is more likely that you are counting the separator code flash as part of the next two-digit code.

Q: When I hook up the code reader the LED light comes on immediately. What is wrong?

A: Nothing. That is actually quite normal. Proceed with the rest of the testing procedures.

Q: When I turn the ignition key to the on position and turn the code reader from "Hold" to "Test" the led stays solid and no codes are given. What do I need to do?

A: On some vehicles we have found a situation where the ground wire that comes up through the diagnostic block connector has too high a resistance to put the vehicle into diagnostic mode. Please follow these steps to overcome this situation:

ALWAYS USE CAUTION WHEN WORKING ON YOUR VEHICLE!

EEC IV Alternate Connection:

Have the ignition key turned off and the code reader set to the hold position. We have two connectors that we use coming from the vehicles wiring harness. We have the big block connector and the single pigtail. Hook the block connector to the code reader. At this point the LED will light up and the code reader will tone if the audio is on. This is normal. Take the single pigtail and do not hook it to the code reader. Instead, us a jumper wire to manually jump the single pigtail to the NEGATIVE battery terminal. Don't just ground it to the chassis or the block; we might have the same problem there. On the code reader there is a single pin where the pigtail would normally hook. Leave this pin open and do not hook anything to it. Now turn the ignition switch to the on position and put the code reader on test and retrieve the codes normally.

Safety Precautions

Always observe safety precautions whenever working on a vehicle.

1. Always wear safety eye protection.
2. Only work on your vehicle in a well-ventilated area.
3. Put transmission in "park" (for automatic) or "neutral" (for manual). Set parking brake.
4. Put blocks on drive wheels.
5. Avoid moving fan blades or any potentially moving parts.
6. Avoid hot engine parts.
7. Turn off ignition before connecting (or disconnecting) any testing equipment.
8. Please read your vehicle's service manual and follow it's safety procedure.