Diy Ford/mazda Diagnotics- No Scanner Needed.

[jdnet]

Ok Guys,

After fiddling around with my instrument cluster I found something that's pretty cool. Basically on ford cars 2000+ and mazdas which use ford components (not sure about other mazdas though).

The cool thing is you can check the real time battery load and and things like the headlight to see how it affects the load on the alternator. Everything else is covered including airbags, abs, burnts instrument cluster bulbs etc.

Here's how it goes.

1. Insert you key into the cylinder- but don't move it.

2. Hold down the trip computer reset button and keep holding it, then start the car. You should see the word "test" pop up. Let go of the button. After it completes a test cycle, you can start hitting the button to scroll through all the codes.

At one point you will see the voltage of your car, e.g 13.9. the number will constanly change based on how hard your car is working. You can on things like your headlights to check the load.

Not sure on how to erase any codes saved, but I'll figure it out and let you all know.

Anyways give it a shot and if you find wsomething interesting please do post it on this thread.

Thanks.

Edited August 5, 2011 by jdnet

[jdnet]

Almost forgot, for those of you who don't know what the codes mean, do a google search on the codes that pop up or post em here and I'm sure someone on the forum can find the problem and solution for you.

[JayZ]

In which Ford/Mazda model u tried this on matchan? Should give this a try.

[CyRaX]

Thats cool,should try it on my friends Demio

[jdnet]

In which Ford/Mazda model u tried this on matchan? Should give this a try.

mazda tribute.

[JayZ]

Hmm this does not work on my Ford Mondeo.

Tried with both Trip and Odo displays. No luck

[Sha7]

Edited August 10, 2011 by Sha7

[Crosswind]

Hmm this does not work on my Ford Mondeo.

Tried with both Trip and Odo displays. No luck

Perhaps this method works for Fords made by Mazda or Fords which use Mazda components (ie. Ford Laser, Ford Escape)

[Dinuk]

I think this methode is only to check the instrument cluster. I can't find the voltage reading in Mazda 3.

[fonfe]

This method only shows DTC's that are stored in the instrument cluster so it's good for checking exact speed, temps, voltage ect but thats about it

[67Dodge]

now thats interesting! got a 01 tribute myself & im gonna try it! ... thanks!