halostryker

Ok so I tried to do the paperclip method of finding the codes and no matter what I do the Service Engine Light won't come on. I might just be doing it wrong. Can some one please tell me the correct way to do the paperclip method.

hot92RS

Did you do a search? Go to Tech/General engine and insert the words "paper clip codes" you will find what you are looking for. Easy man!

halostryker

Ok I tried that and it still didn't work???

89RSTBI

iTrader: (5)

you know I had the same problem, is the car running at all? if the fuel pump isn't kicking on then look under the hood at the battery there is some wires that goes into a socket looking thing and clips in there (atleast on my 89 camaro) and if you unclip it and pull it out there is a fuse in there and its probably blown. I had the same problem and couldn't get it to read any codes or anything either until I changed that fuse. I have added pictures to show what i am referring to

hot92RS

A few more facts about the car's condition will help as well such as was it always doing this, what happened just before it started, is it running at all like the last post asked, etc. Just give us a little more info.

halostryker

It runs just fine,and its in really good condition. I just wanted to check the codes to see if there was anything wrong that I couldn't see. I'll check to see about that fuse but I don't think my car has one because its older and I've never noticed it before.

l_dis_travlr

Maybe I'm missing something here...

Normally, there are no codes unless the engine light is on.
The paper clip method gets the light to "blink" the number
of the code being set. Try looking for a parts store that
will loan a diagnostic tool, or use it for you in the parking lot.

Have you considered the possibility...
ur tryn ta fix sump-in dat ain't broke.



89, you couldn't get it to read any codes, because that fuse
is the constant power source to the ECM.
Without it, zip-zero-nada!!

89RSTBI

iTrader: (5)

if it has a computer in it and its a third generation Camaro then I believe it has that fuse but if its running then its not blown. Not sure what you are looking for, if its running fine and the light isn't on then its not going to read anything but 12. If its running fine and the light won't even flash 12 then the light may be burnt out, try changing it

halostryker

Ok I'll change the light but like I was saying I am only checking the codes just to be on the safe side.

89RSTBI

iTrader: (5)

if the bulb is burnt out (or even missing) the SES light may stay on and may need the codes to be read because of some sensor being bad. I know a few people that took their light out because it stayed on all the time so that may be the case with yours

InfernalVortex

iTrader: (4)

Well you can see if the light works by running the car and disconnecting the ESC plug. When you disconnect the ESC (such as to set base timing) that light will come on.

five7kid

iTrader: (14)

You can see if the light works by turning the ignition switch to the "Run" position without starting the car.

Even if no codes are set, you should get a "12" response when checking.

Stephen

iTrader: (12)

Key On, but Engine not running (key just turned to the first position), will cause the SES Light to come on & stay on. If it doesn't for you, chances are, your bulb is burnt out. See if your even using the correct terminal..... ECM Codes

That would also explain why your getting NO blinking, if your using the correct 2 locations.

My local Autozones not only do it for free, but give out the "keys" afterwards, for the person to keep. Last time I went, she had ZERO clue of how to do it, but gave me the key to do it myself, then told me to just keep it "We have a box FULL of them." I keep one in my GTA now, for future uses or if a friend needs one.

Blackdog36

iTrader: (3)

Halostryker, did you get it to work? I found this write up on how to check engine lights. http://www.austinthirdgen.org/index.php?pid=27 I did it the other day and it worked fine. I bent a paperclip in a U and stuck the ends in the holes marked A and B. The clip held in the ecm harness while I read the flashing lights. Light will blink code 12 three times which is just the ecm saying it's working. Any error code stored will then be flashed three times in a row. Good point above about parts stores running checks for free. Above link has codes for each engine type. Codes are slightly different even for MAF vs MAP systems.

Stephen

iTrader: (12)

30 minutes after I posted that link, you post it again?

I guess that is 2 votes for using it.

halostryker

Well I tried what the web site said like 20 times and it still did not work I guess I'll just go to autozone and get the codes. I'm thinking tho that the light is burnt out, but haven't got around to fixing it lol.

Stephen

iTrader: (12)

You didn't answer what I asked above....

Does the SES light come on, when you first turn the key on (normally, no paper clip)? It goes off after you start the car, providing that there are no codes set.

If not, the bulb is most likely blown.

halostryker

Ok I got to the light and like i expected the light was missing. (no surprise lol) but any ways I replaced it and got it all working now and I got the codes 13,14,34,43

Killert

iTrader: (9)

http://www.troublecodes.net/GM/

Decode

Blackdog36

iTrader: (3)

My engine had code 15 (coolant temperature sensor) which is similar to #14 (one is high voltage, other is low sensor voltage). You can diagnose sensor wire harness & ECM but odds are it is the sensor. I bought a new $13 sensor from Advance Auto parts and it got rid of the code. Sensor is located right below throttle body. A 13/16 hex socket will fit over sensor. When removing old sensor be quick to put in the new one since coolant fluid will leak out - not a high pressure spray but enough to cause a mess on floor. Change it with engine cool. Good luck on other codes. FYI changing CTS sensor helped clear and EGR code (#32) since it plays a role in the EGR system.

Hey Kilbert - I used to live around Philly and helped do the site design for the McD's at Germantown and 202. Site was a pain in the a**

Killert

iTrader: (9)

I go there all the time, thats pretty cool

89RSTBI

iTrader: (5)

I figured that was what was going on, I don't know why but some people would rather take the bulb out than fix the problem. They figure its running fine so no need to mess with what the car is telling them is wrong and just take the bulb out so they don't have to see the light everytime they drive it