Code diagnostic tool for the home
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New User
Joined: Dec 2003
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Code diagnostic tool for the home
I know this isn't the best forum for this question, but since this tool will be used primarily for my Bronco figured I'd ask you guys what you think....
I was wondering if anyone has any experience with those code testers that you can get at your local parts stores. I'm referring to the equipment that you use to take diagnostic codes from the different vehicle systems (is it a STAR tester?).
I've got an 89 Bronco and a 95 Mazda B4000 (Ford) in which I'm always getting the "check engine" lights. What a pain it is to roll down to the mechanic just to get the test. I'd love to be able to diagnose the probs myself, and decide whether or not it's something I can fix or if it's a job for the mechanic.
Anyway, anybody have any experience with these? I've heard the mechanics' versions are high dollar. I've seen some at the local Checker Auto ranging from $120 to $450. Just didn't know how well they worked.
Also - if I were to buy one will I then need to purchase the proper plugs for my vehicles? Or is this sort of thing a "one size fits all"?
Thanks!
I was wondering if anyone has any experience with those code testers that you can get at your local parts stores. I'm referring to the equipment that you use to take diagnostic codes from the different vehicle systems (is it a STAR tester?).
I've got an 89 Bronco and a 95 Mazda B4000 (Ford) in which I'm always getting the "check engine" lights. What a pain it is to roll down to the mechanic just to get the test. I'd love to be able to diagnose the probs myself, and decide whether or not it's something I can fix or if it's a job for the mechanic.
Anyway, anybody have any experience with these? I've heard the mechanics' versions are high dollar. I've seen some at the local Checker Auto ranging from $120 to $450. Just didn't know how well they worked.
Also - if I were to buy one will I then need to purchase the proper plugs for my vehicles? Or is this sort of thing a "one size fits all"?
Thanks!
Thread Starter
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New User
Joined: Dec 2003
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Thanks for that info. Looks like that site is having tech probs. I'll check them out later.
I saw that info in the Haynes manual, but for some reason I got the idea that that wasn't the best way to go. Can you get the continuous codes this way?
I saw that info in the Haynes manual, but for some reason I got the idea that that wasn't the best way to go. Can you get the continuous codes this way?
Junior User
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 71
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From: Greensburg, PA
Your Bronc is probably an EEC-4 System, and the code puller is only about $25. The Mazda... Probably OBD-1 (Japaneese) and that bugger will probably cost about $150. Best bet... use the jumper method. Cheap testers only do the same thing with flash codes as the jumper method. You can try Autozone.com and check for Repair Info. I think I saw it in there. Otherwise, Steve83 did complete directions on this site. Search for his posts! Good Luck!
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 1,526
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From: Round Rock, TX
Pull the codes from the Bronco with a paperclip using these directions from Steve83:
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/s...hreadid=112293
That Mazda is probably OBD-II; AutoZone will pull those codes for free.
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/s...hreadid=112293
That Mazda is probably OBD-II; AutoZone will pull those codes for free.
