I want to buy a code reader.....anyone have recommendations? Is it possible to see a code if there is no check engine light? Can I use it while the engine is dunning or I am driving to see a temp code that may be popping up.. Does that even make sense?

 

a code reader is just that a "reader". a code scanner will give you more info. I bought a codekey code reader at Costcos for $20. Advanced auto was advertising all the actron obd stuff for 1/2 price last week. Yes you can find Pending codes with a reader/scanner. sometimes the issue just trhows a pending code and then goes away and never throws the CEL. that is a good way to try and find your issue.

 

You can also just go to most auto parts stores and they can check and see if you are throwing codes for free using their code readers. They will also tell you what the code means. Cheaper alternative. I know AutoZone does this for sure, not reall sure about the other though.

 

... also, your vehicle will store any and all codes in the ECM until they are cleared. So if you had issues the code should still be in the ECM memory with a date.

 

I've used AutoZone a few times and they are great.... I'm chasing this intermittent problem right now and was wondering if there was an affordable scanner I could hook up while I drove the truck. Sounds like a good idea...don't know if it's possible though.

 

look into scangauge....about $150

 

looks good but when I went to their website:
WORKS ON ALL VEHICLES EXCEPT: 1998 Ford Explorer and Ranger - No Speed, Distance or Fuel Economy information (MPH, MPG, Miles driven).

not sure if that's a detriment or not since I'm looking for diagnostics..

 

I think what it is is that he scanguage does a million tings but not every vehicle si wired so the info goes thru the pcm in a way that lets the scangauge read the info..........ie. I dont hink these rangers/explorer have any direct codes for fuel pressure etc.....

 

So did you buy a reader/scanner? what model? source? cost?

 

Not yet. The one Powersmoked suggested is the first and only one that looks like it what I'm looking for. I'd at least like to fine one other to compare. I just don't want to buy A and then see B and wish I had bought that one because I only have enough money for 1 purchase... plus I've been really busy the past month or so...so I've just been putting up with my Ranger's problems... Hoping maybe It will get hit by a bolt of lightning or something...

 

recently got a Zurich from harbor freight. It clears codes too .65.00

 

I have a 1996 and a 2003 Ranger. Used the BlueDriver on both and it works very well. Also has the ability to put out a log file in Excel. Very useful when troubleshooting fuel trim issues and the like.

 

The original post is 15 years old. The forum favorite scan tool is Forscan. It's free and with a cheap subscription can make configuration changes on many Fords.