Hi all.
Does anyone know the paperclip method for getting error codes out of a 2000 zafira 1.8 ecotec? Its a different socket from my old vectra, and the pins arnt the same as an astra.
thanks
WTM
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I *think* GM stopped people from doing the diy paperclip trick from sometime in 1999?
All the info I've seen on other sites that explains how to read the ecu code using a paperclip only shows the relevant data up until 1999.
Could be wrong though.
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Look at your 16-pin OBD connector in the car. If there is a metal terminal is location nr. 6 then you *can* read the codes by grounding this terminal. If there is no metal terminal then you need to use a scan tool.
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No pin 6. Ah well, off to get gouged by someone with a piece of electronics. Thanks guys.
WTM
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Don't despair, I just got one delivered from a company on e-bay. It should work on any OBDII type. It displays fault codes and if left plugged in will erase them.
www.gendan.co.uk/
Have a look at the site, they have allsorts of stuff. The tool above cost 28pounds + p&p.
My missus has a Zafira and I have posted a few problems. As a matter of interest, what are the symptoms (if any) of the fault?
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As a matter of interest, what are the symptoms (ifany) of the fault?
No symptoms at all, just the light. it hasnt gone into safe mode, or anything like that, but I am keen to find out why it went on. and just to make things more baffling , its now gone out. does the ecu store codes, or will it wipe them?
cheers
WTM
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>>does the ecu store codes, or will it wipe them?
It depends on the software version in the ECU.
The details of the fault and its duration will determine whether the fault is stored or not.
If a fault has been stored in the ECU and you have the early version of the software, it will remain there until the ignition is switched on and off twenty times.
If you have a later software version, the fault is stored for sixty cycles of ingnition switching.
It is usually worth getting the ECU software version updated by Vauxhall if there is a newer version (a mechanic who is on the ball will spot this when he plugs in Tech 2). There tend to be a mixture of bug fixes and driveability enhancements to be had.
number_cruncher
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Update on this. managed to get someone with a code reader to plug it in, but no errors stored. I think its been over 20 starts so probably wiped. I'm now wondering if its a sort of time bomb waiting to go off (in my wallet...)
WTM
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Not certain on this.But older versions would only store a fault code if it remained for 30 seconds +..And it didnt wipe. it remained in memory..But then am thinking of Corsa
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Steve
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Don't despair, I just got one delivered from a company on e-bay. It should work on any OBDII type. It displays fault codes and if left plugged in will erase them. www.gendan.co.uk/ Have a look at the site, they have allsorts of stuff. The tool above cost 28pounds + p&p.
Can you give a link to the £28 OBDII reader please? I can't see one that cheap on the site.
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Can you give a link to the £28 OBDII reader please? I can't see one that cheap on the site.
I found this at £50.
tinyurl.com/7d6kz
WTM
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All the manuals I've read have stated that it's perfectly normal for the check engine light to come on briefly while driving, provided it goes off again pretty sharpish.
Never saw it on my Astra apart from the lamp check.
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>>All the manuals I've read have stated that it's perfectly normal for the check engine light to come on briefly while driving,
When turning on ignition switch yes.Whilst driving no/unless a fault picked up while driving.Though it has not been stated as to why ECU check is needed??
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Steve
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When turning on ignition switch yes.Whilst driving no/unless a fault picked up while driving.
Steve, Jesse's statement regarding the ecu light flashing momentarily providing it doesn't remain on is correct.
vauxhall.co.uk/media/ownersManuals/Cars/Zafira/Zaf...f
Page 190 & 191.
Control indicator for exhaust
If it lights up briefly and then goes out again this is of no significance.
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Sorry Jesse realised I was wrong too late.My apologies:(
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Steve
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You're right, I can't find one on their site either! I have definitely bought one though from this company through ebay on a Buy It Now. If you still haven't found one, get in touch with sales@gendandirect.co.uk and mention that it is a Ctools UIO TECH OBDII tester. The barcode number on the packaging is 6923359864588
Here is the link of the purchase.
cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=7966...1
Good luck! I am sick of giving money to garages for nothing. In my opinion, cars should output a fault diagnosis rather than a light. I work in the electronics industry and the use by car manufacturers of an engine management light is pure extortion. The first company to display a device error will reap the rewards in residual values and consequently sales.
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You're right, I can't find one on their site either! I have definitely bought one though from this company through ebay on a Buy It Now. If you still haven't found one, get in touch with sales@gendandirect.co.uk and mention that it is a Ctools UIO TECH OBDII tester. The barcode number on the packaging is 6923359864588 Here is the link of the purchase. cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=7966...1
That's a bargain.
I work in the electronics industry and theuse by car manufacturers of an engine management light is pure extortion. The first company to display a device error will reap the rewards in residual values and consequently sales.
I quite agree. Most cars have a display matrix that could be used to display the relevant OBD code. The MIL light is just a ploy to get you take it to the dealer.
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heres a reader on ebay for £22, (plus £10 p+p)
tinyurl.com/c6h7m
doesnt seem to be much good for european market stuff, but I might be wrong. Might be worth a punt to someone, (no, I have no connection to these people) but what raises my eyebrows is where its described as a "...quality novelty product..."
WTM
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