Hi Folks,

I bought myself a 2003 Lincoln Navigator and I'm having problems with failing sensors.

So far, I have been taking the Navigator to my local mechanic but I was wondering if I could do some of the repairs myself.

Obvious to do this, I need something to read and clear the codes.

So, what options would I have?

1. Do I buy a specialized reader? If so what do I look for?

2. Can I buy a widget that I can hook up to my laptop and get software for the laptop? If so, what is recommended?

I'm a computer programmer by background so I know my way around computers.

Also, while in college, I used to work as an assistant mechanic and I'm fairly capable with older vehicles - up until electronic engine controls.

Regards,

David Glaser

 

For engine codes any hand held scanner will work, you can even get one at wally world for around $60. For tranny and abs codes they are specific scanners and are generally on the pricey side. I am sure there are gadgets to DL onto a laptop but I dont know for certain.

 

You probably need a reader that is CAN compatible. (Can't remeber what the "C" stands for right now, but the other two letters stand for area network. The CAN network was required around 2005, but some vehicles used CAN earlier.)

I would also ask the manufacturer of the scan tool if it can read all the codes that the Navigator puts out - like the air suspension module. Some years the Navigator used a different module for the air suspension than the Expy used.

I would suggest a reader that can at least read the "P" (Powertrain) codes. the "B" (Body/Gem) codes, the ABS codes, and the transmission codes.

Ideally it would be advantageous to have a feature called "Bi-directional" capability. This allows the scan tool to tell the PCM to do certain things.
(Example - say your drivers power window acts up. If your scan tool can instruct the PCM to lower the drivers window and the window goes down, you will then know that the window motor, and its power and ground circuits are okay, and that you only need to inpsct the window control circuit.)

As you know, all these features will add to the price of your scan tool.

 

You can get a decent scan tool that reads engine and transmission codes for well under $200. Look for one that specifically states that it supports "Manufacturer-specific " codes to ensure the ability to read transmission codes.

If you want one that will read the supplemental systems such as SRS, ABS, and the like, plan on a minimum of $700 for an OTC Nemisys 3797 on fleabay. Models from OTC, Snap-ON, MAC, and the like for professional mechanics will start around $3 grand and up for a new one.

CAN (Controller Area Network) protocol was adopted by Ford for all 2004 models. As noted, there were a few 2003models that utilized CAN. Since everything Ford 2004 and later must have CAN, buy a CAN-capable tool to start with.

 

I picked up a very basic scan tool from Actron a while back. It will read live data, DTCs and a few other things. It will do everything new and I bought it because it would work on the EEC-IV Fords and the older Dodges (when we had older Dodges at work). It is a nice unit for about $250. I wish I had the dinero for a nice Snap-On scanner.

 

If you want to be able to dig into everything on your truck you might check out ebay for a ngs scan tool. With the correct software you can do everything a dealer can do and they can be picked up for a reasonable price compared to new.

 

Ford's Integrated Diagnostic System (IDS): This is the current OEM tool for all Ford/Lincoln/Mercury dealers as well as Mazda dealers. Introduced to the Ford dealer service departments for model year 2005, this PC based tool covers all Fords models from 1996 to current year.
The IDS VCM hardware and required cabling, plus the IDS application software and a DVD based subscription of re-flashing calibration files and software updates for the IDS. All pre-installed into a Ford Certified new Dell Latitude laptop. The entire package is then packaged into a custom blow molded case with custom cut foam cushioning for the laptop and IDS.
NGS

New Generation Star Tester- The NGS tool is an alternate tool for Ford Service. Produced by Hickok Corporation, this scan tool will put the automotive aftermarket shop at a 'dealer level' capability when working on Ford/Lincoln/Mercury vehicles. The Ford dealer techs have access to two tools for scanning Ford products: the IDS (Intergrated Diagnostic System) and the 'NGS.
The NGS coverage includes all Ford vehicles from 1984 to 2007. Scan data, codes, bi-directional controls and access to all controllers including Powertrain, Body, Chassis, ABS, GEM, FEM, REM, PATS, signal simulation, and multi-meter.
NGS CAN VIM

NGS 2007 CAN VIM Update: Now available the 2007 MY software package that also enables the NGS to read CAN communication vehicles. Any NGS or NGS-XL can be updated to enhanced CAN communications by purchasing this kit. Please note the 2007 CAN VIM Kit update does not add any prior years coverage of non-CAN vehicles. Coverage does include all 2007, 2006, 2005 CAN and Non-CAN vehicles, plus 2004 and 2003 CAN Applications.
Software Updates for NGS

NGS Software Update: For those shops that already own an NGS, this is the Pre-CAN 2004 software update package. This update package will update any older NGS to include 1984-2004 model year coverages for all non-CAN applications. NGS testers with software from as far back as 1998 will be upgraded to current levels. Package includes new additional PCMCIA card and updated manual.

[***************]For those NGS owners with software older then 1998, there is a second upgrade kit available. ANY NGS can be updated to the m current 2004 MY levels. There are essential, Youyouadditional cables also needed to complete the functional updating of this tool.[/COLOR]

 

Here's one for around $500.bucks,P.C. Based, $240 for softwear and hook-up to DLC to USB port on computer.and $250 for Ford enhanced interface 1995-2010

AutoEnginuity® - OBD2 Scan Tool - Professional PC and PDA Diagnostics

 

I have the AutoXray EZ-Scan AX6000 and am quite pleased with it.
AutoXray EZ Scan 6000 OBD I & II Scanner - AX6000

 

Does it do bi-directional test.Can it check Body codes an all the other modules..P.B.C and U codes. Can it tell if all the modules on the CAN are talking to each other.I'm a Chevy mechanic i like the Tech 2 but it does not work on fords

 

Autozone will scan them for free