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-   -   OBD Codes and reading them (http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/tech-help/47616-obd-codes-reading-them.html)

chilsung7 10-04-2002 04:57 PM

OBD Codes and reading them
 
Does anyone have any information about later model cars as far as how to access the OBD to get codes? also, does anyone have a source for Code interpretation? I have a Cadillac STS and you access the OBD by pressing two buttons on the AC control panel, then the LCD panel becomes the OBD display, which cycles through the codes and tells you if they are Current or History. Also, someone kindly posted an interpretation manual on one of the Cadillac boards. I have seen some threads about building/buying tools to access the codes on machines just slightly older than mine, but have not seen anything for newer machines.

Gilly 10-04-2002 05:10 PM

On your C280, the connector for the generic scan tool for OBD codes I believe is located in the drivers footwell under the dash. I don't believe there is any way to retreive the codes without at least a generic scan tool.
All OBDII codes are identical as to their meaning, so if you have the list of OBDII codes, they need to apply to your car by Federal law.
Some of the better scanners will also go into other systems in the vehicle other than the engine management, I believe the real nice ones will give you many of the proprietary codes also.
Most scanners will give you the OBDII and proprietary codes meaning.

Gilly

chilsung7 10-04-2002 05:14 PM

Thanks Dan! So I need to invest in a scan tool if I really want to access the codes myself. Where can I get info on scanners? Prices? any on line sources?

Gilly 10-04-2002 05:21 PM

On an OBDII car, yes I believe a scanner is in order.
Being a dealer tech, i have the MB stuff close at hand and have never bought a scanner for an OBDII car. Hopefully one of the independent techs can help you out here, or try your browser for help.

Gilly

Gilly 10-04-2002 05:27 PM

Ottoscan

Here's an idea for you too, if you have an extra PDA laying around or would buy one to have this tool capablity.

Gilly

chilsung7 10-04-2002 06:30 PM

Thanks Gilly!!
 
the ottoshop sounds like a terrific solution, just a bit pricey for me for now, although I am sure it is much less than a scanner from anyone else. Thanks much for the very helpful information.

JCE 10-04-2002 07:31 PM

These sites discuss free OBDII software and $65 interface cards for reading codes. The software runs on your laptop, the interface box and cable are described on their 'order' page (one card is listed as 'for imports'. They have an address and forum for tech questions and support issues. Other than , I don't know anything about them. If you are on a budget, you might check them out.

http://www.akmcables.com/obdii.htm

http://www.scantool.net/

LarryBible 10-05-2002 07:00 AM

I use EASE Diagnostic Software. You don't have to have a PDA, and actually for this purpose I believe a laptop is a better choice as long as it has a good batery or a way to connect to 12 Volts and a display that you can see in the car.

You can learn more at www.obd2.com Go to the PERSONAL version.

Good luck,


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