unable to get a code reading

My engine light has been on ('99 windstar 3.8L) for about 2 months. Tried to have the code read with the Auto Zone code reader and nothing happens when I plug it in and try to fire it up. They evn tried and nothing. Any suggestions? Is there another spot to hook the reader up to?

My engine light has been on ('99 windstar 3.8L) for about 2 months. Tried to have the code read with the Auto Zone code reader and nothing happens when I plug it in and try to fire it up. They evn tried and nothing. Any suggestions? Is there another spot to hook the reader up to?

If you're talking about the plug under the stearing collume.... I don't think there is another plug. I don't know why you can't get a reading. Perhaps a blown fuse, or a blown fuseable link? This one might be one for the dealership. Hopefully someone else might be able to chime in.

As to why the light is on. My guess would be an O2 sensor....

Dan

Make sure there no trash or something in the pins area.. Could be a fault with there code scanner.. As for the check engine light could be a number of things. If it comes up with 171 or 174 it may not be the o2 sensor.. Mine was a loose PCV valve groment causeing vacuum leak which triggered the code. If you ever check the PCV valve make sure you clean all the oil off of it and the rubber groment. I pulled the groment off and used dish liquid to clean and dried it reinstalled and no more light.. replaced with motorcraft PCV valve.

I would ensure that you have 12 Volts at the proper pin on the OBD11 port. There is a fuse for this voltage too.

DO NOT make any assumptions without investigating. Even when you get a code. Knowing the code only points you in the direction to test in more detail.

As garync stated you may get 171/174 as it is common for 99s and there are many causes of this code. Seems like everyone recommends the O2 sensors but they are often not the problem but are simply reading the conditions they "see" and reading correctly.

I would ensure that you have 12 Volts at the proper pin on the OBD11 port. There is a fuse for this voltage too.

DO NOT make any assumptions without investigating. Even when you get a code. Knowing the code only points you in the direction to test in more detail.

As garync stated you may get 171/174 as it is common for 99s and there are many causes of this code. Seems like everyone recommends the O2 sensors but they are often not the problem but are simply reading the conditions they "see" and reading correctly.
DRW- POINT IS YOU COULD PAY UP TO OR OVER 300.00 for the O2 sensors installed and still get the same reading.. Gary

I Could not agree more!!

I had a similar problem, I purchased the cheaper Actron, codes only, "ISO Link Fail"--reader defective, purchased more expensive reader, work's great.

I too was quick to waste money on O2 sensor, wrong answer. Still battling P0305- cylinder 5 misfire, and P0174-Bank 2 lean.
'98 GL 3.8L, 130K

I have tried four different machines at different stores. I will see if I'm getting power to the plug. Anyone know which pin is hot. Guess I will look for a red wire. I will also check each fuse as I don't know which fuse that would fall under.

Thanks for all your input.

Mike

I would ensure that you have 12 Volts at the proper pin on the OBD11 port. There is a fuse for this voltage too.

DO NOT make any assumptions without investigating. Even when you get a code. Knowing the code only points you in the direction to test in more detail.

As garync stated you may get 171/174 as it is common for 99s and there are many causes of this code. Seems like everyone recommends the O2 sensors but they are often not the problem but are simply reading the conditions they "see" and reading correctly.

I did not say replace the O2 sensor I said "my guess is the O2 sensor".

As to what pins are what check out this link: http://obddiagnostics.com/circNotes.txt This link is also for free softwear for a PC and plans to build the interface in between the car and computer. I plan on building one. From what I have read it looks like it should do a good job.

Regards

Dan

I know Lesabre.... He his a newbe so we wanted to make sure he knew that aswell, but you are right it may come up as that code once he get power to the obd.. We just dont want any one to spend money were they dont have too.. sorry .. :smile:
Thanks for the web site. I lost my book to my scanner, but still able to find the codes by my other manuel.. Thats what he needs..