Check Engine Light

[ironman86]

I have a 2000 Ford Ranger and the check engine light came on a few days ago. Is there a way that I can retrieve/read the codes without taking it to a shop or mechanic? Also, is there a way I can reset the codes which will turn of the check engine light after I have fixed the problem?

I was told that unhooking the battery will not remove the code from the computer memory, even though it will turn off the check engine light. Is that true or false?

Any info would be great, thanks.

 

[Crunchy]

Buy a code reader.

Search ebay for "memoscan u381". Thats mine and I love it. Paid for itself with one use.

 

[Yellowsplash]

Take it to your local advance/auto zone and borrow the scanner, its free. Write down the codes and description and post back with the results. Resetting the computer isnt going to keep the code from coming back. I dont know about you, but if my truck is popping a code I like to know whats going on...

 

[ironman86]

I was going to figure out what was causing the CEL and then I was going to repair it. I just didn't know if I could reset the code and turn out the light just by fixing the problem or if I had to have a scanner to do so. Or if unhooking the battery after fixing the problem would get rid of the light.

 

[97ranger4x4]

If you unhook the battery, it will reset your CEL, but it will come back on if the problem is not fixed. If you find out what the code(s) are. fix the problem, then unplug your battery, your CEL will not come back on assuming the problem has gone away.

If you do basic maintence I suggest getting a code reader. you can get the basic ones that just say the code and then you go to a little booklet to read the description for like $40. It will save the hassle of going down to the auto parts store, waiting in line to "rent" one of the scanners, write it down, return the scanner, then go home and diagnose the issue. Also because they are pretty much good on any car newer than a 1996 including many imports, you can help a friend out or use it for your future cars. It really is one of the best investments a do it yourselfer can invest in.

 

[ironman86]

Great. Thank you very much for that info.

What is the most common problem related to the CEL coming on?

 

[Twizzler09]

Thats wayyyy too general of a question. There are quite literally hundreds upon hundreds of possible codes. There is no way anyone could accurately guess a possible code number/description before hand.

Anything from Rich/Lean conditions, misfires, bad o2 sensor, to a loose gas cap, will trip a CEL. Amongst many many other things

 

[ironman86]

LOL You're right. Stupid question of me to ask.

 

[Twizzler09]

Only stupid question is the one never asked

 

[cr_the_machinist]

Just go to your local auto parts store and borrow a code reader (like mentioned by Yellowsplash). It will but a letter and a numerical code after it. The auto parts store may be able to look up the code for you and get you the part you need... if required. Best fix it asap so that small problem doesn't leave you standed later on.

 

[ironman86]

I actually ordered the memoscan u381 scanner mentioned and it ships from Hong Kong, so I'll get it in less than a year, hopefully, lol. Thanks for your help ya'll.

 

[rainerk]

Code Scanner

I bought an Actron OBD II AutoScanner model CP9175 on Amazon.com for about $85.00. It tells you what the codes are, lets you reset them and lets you monitor some other engine functions.