Getting codes without a reader?

[Cara]

I fear I know the answer to this, but I'll ask anyway: with my 2005 Toyota Sienna van, using either a Haynes or Chilton book, I found a "sequence" of things that you could do, in the car (involving the ignition, gear, RPM, etc.) that would blink dash lights in a result that allowed you to know what engine CODES your engine was holding.

My 'check engine' light is on. Is there any way to extract the code(s) from my Vibe without having to get or borrow a reader?

Thanks

[ehoff121]

Sorry, no.

Some auto parts places will read the code for free. AutoZone is one chain that does.

There used to be a trick using an engine compartment On Board Diagnostic (OBD) port and a paper clip to short two terminals and it would make the check engine light blink the number of the code on pre-1995 OBD. The Vibe is OBD-II and the codes contain letters and three digits, which are difficult to represent using a blinking light.

[Salsa Guy]

X2 Most auto parts store will do it for free. A code reader is fairly cheap $30 at the Auto parts store. BEFORE Buying any parts I'd suggest you post the code on Genvibe or at least do an internet search. You don't want to throw money at sensors or parts until you are sure it will correct the problem.

[vibenvy]

As already stated, just go to a chain auto parts store i.e. Auto Zone, have them read the code/s for you for free and then research online and on here so you know what to expect before heading to a mechanic.

[Cara]

Autozone says a P0171 code -- trying to talk me into replacing the O2 sensor but, after doing some searches here, for a bit, I'm thinking of starting with a clean-up of the MAF sensor.

Does that sound like a reasonable first step?

Thanks, all...

[Salsa Guy]

NO! don't clean the MAF you can do more damage than good! Just make sure there's not chunks of crap in it. More than likely there is a air leak somewhere. First check the intake manifold then work way back with some CARB cleaner to find the leak. The IM gasket is a cheap repair and mostly likely problem for your year.