Coming home tonight, the check engine light came on.

All gauges show normal, kept running just fine, no indication of a problem other than the light.

Is there a way to retrieve the codes without having to find a scan tool? I don't have one and can't really afford to buy one right now. This is my only transportation and I need it to work.

The only thing that has been done lately is I put in 89 fuel instead of 87 on the last fill up because they were out of 87 and I was dead empty. I've used just over 1/2 of the tank.

Any/all assistance is definitely appreciated!

 

cycle the ignition on to off 3 times and the 3rd time leave it on. P code should appear in the odometer.

 

if you'd prefer, take it to autozone and they'll print the code(s) and description(s)
out for you on receipt paper.

 

Thanks! That was easy. Gotta write that down for future reference. Any way to clear codes without a reader?

 

Well...without a scanner...disconnect the neg terminal on the battery. Of course, see what the code is and make sure it's fixed =P

 

Thanks! While searching the forum for the code (P0121), I found the procedure to clear codes:

1. Remove negative battery terminal
2. Insert key and turn to start, hold for at least 15 seconds
3. Turn key to off and remove
4. Connect negative battery terminal

Now I just have to figure out if it's the TPS, MAP or APPS that's causing it. I do know that for the last few weeks when I punch the gas it sounds like the TB just opens all the way immediately and it's gasping for air.

 

I get that code when I drive on the highway for over 150 miles straight. I don't know what's causing it, but I've already replaced the MAP sensor and it did improve short term driving. Funny thing is...after these long trips, the truck clearly runs rich..especially when I stomp on the gas, there's a cloud of exhaust that shoots out. The truck starts running very growly.

Lean code, though...not sure if it's just a fluke, but you may have a vacuum leak somewhere.

 

Well, I guess I'm breaking out my trusty multimeter in the morning and testing some sensors...

 

Well, the result was an exceptionally dirty IAC. Pulled it, cleaned it thoroughly with carb cleaner, cleaned out the fitting in the TB and the side hole of the fitting the best I could. Reasssembled, cleared the fault code, and started it. First start was a little rough but it smoothed out after about 10 minutes of running. Left it off for a while, then went on a short (20 mile) drive. Absolutely incredible difference! Better acceleration, better shifting, smoother ride. Highly recommend it if you haven't done it!