Hi, will buying a fault code reader just clear the code or actually tell me whats causing the light to come on? Also,will any reader do the same job? I've got an engine management light come on and don't want a costly garage bill.
www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?f=4&t=55...6
Your original posting is on this link - may link them later, no need to put your make and model in the subject line, that's automated but ENGINE VARIANT would be good ! - PU
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There's a lot of misunderstanding [fuelled by increasingly ludicrous marketing claims] about the abilities of "code readers."
If they can communicate, most should [but don't] display a clearly understandable fault code - either a manufacturer specific one or a generic EOBD P001-999 one. [P1000 and upwards are vehicle - or even system - specific.]
Knowing the code isn't a lot of use on it's own. It's only one segment, of one stage, of fault diagnosis. Once decrypted, it will often tell you what's amiss - without giving any clues why and even less what to do about it.
Without a comprehensive understanding of the operation and theory behind engine management, what is "long-term fuel trim [multiplicative] - out of range" going to tell you? [And that is a very common code.]
Coupled with years of experience to draw on; it's very informative. Previous occurrences give an insight into the more likely causes and a bit of research can usually guide you to the problem.
Without experience - and the extreme caution that it teaches you - mere codes usually lead to ineffectual and increasingly desperate parts-swapping - and just how many times has that been seen on these pages?
Fortunately; for your car, the very capable VAG-Com is available. This is one of the best solutions as it also gives dealer-level all-system live-data, proper information on each code and, if bought from the right places, proper support too. Try www ilexa.co.uk.
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i used a very basic old style Ford one I borrowed to test my old Fiesta when it was over revving, the LED flashed in a series which decrpyting pointed to the throttle position sensor, I tested it and it worked so wiggled the wire and the fault went. I replaced the broken wire and the problem was cured.
However I admit if it said "long-term fuel trim [multiplicative] - out of range" I would not have had a clue what that was but if you get a code like that you should take it to the professionals and start replacing bits of the fuel injection system which probably has nothing to with that fault cold :D
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Thanks for the info, ill look into it. You sound very knowledgeable in this area, are you in the motor trade or similar?You could be a very handy allie in my time of need!!
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i think rattle just got lucky dustman1
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I would hope the OP was meaning screwloose not me :). I did get lucky but my experience shows that these testers can be useful at times it just depends on the fault.
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for a vw the tool to get is vag-com by rosstech - it emulates the official vag diagnostics. A far better product than the generic code readers
As Screwloose says though, there can be a lot more to it than just reading a code - you have to know what it means. Difficult to know if the code in itself will be helfull without the code.
you can read codes with the free version of vag-com. compatible cables can be ha cheaply off ebay.
If you try the various vw/audi forums many have a section listing people who own vag-com and are prepared to read your codes free of charge. (providing a beer is considered polite though)
whats the engine/year and where are you?
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Its a 2.0 SE '01 on a Y reg. Im from medway in kent. I emailled ilexa.co.uk after Screwloose suggested them and Im waiting for a reply. I recently joined a vw/audi forum, but didn't think to ask if anyone had a vag-com willing to help.
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Vag-com will certainly read that.
You're nowhere near me though.
www.ross-tech.com/ are the makers, various resellers in the uk now - I bought mine direct from Ross Tech years ago.
You might try asking your local indy though.
I was very pleasantly surprised recently when Harrogate Auto Electrics read the codes on my volvo and reset the light for free (came on when an intercooler pipe failed). When I rang they quoted me £35 (which seems to be a standard charge by any of the bosch places). When I dropped in (another good thing - the place I rang first wanted me to make an appointment for two weeks time- HAE said that If I called in at a particular time they would be finishing their tea break and someone could quickly connect up) they said no charge. Means they will get my business when I do need anything doing.
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dustman1 try this place. i bought one the other week and it works ok on my golf
www.talktomycar.co.uk/index.htm
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