Retrieving Diagnostic Trouble Codes

If diagnostic equipment is not available following procedure can be carried out using "Blink Code" and a multi-meter. Faults are stored in ECU memory in code form. The information can be retrieved by initiating and reading a series of flash and pause sequences on ABS warning light.

Use of blink code will determine location of fault prior to carrying out a multi-meter check, thus reducing multi-meter checking time.

Additionally blink code can be used exclusively where a fault has occurred, and no other diagnostic equipment is available.

A female plug to fit diagnostic plug is recommended. This plug should be prewired to connect ECU pin 14 to earth by bridging black/pink and black diagnostic plug wires.

1. To initiate blink code, switch off ignition.
2. Remove seat side trim to gain access to ECU and relays, and on early vehicles diagnostic plug. Unclip access plate from seat base front trim panel. Pull blue diagnostic plug from its clip through opening. Note that diagnostic plug and fuse condition on early vehicles is shown. See Fig 1 .
3. Remove ABS warning light relay. See Fig 2 .
4. Switch on ignition, ABS warning light will illuminate.
5. Connect prewired plug to diagnostic plug. See Fig 1 and Fig 2 .
6. Five seconds after connecting diagnostic plug ABS warning light will extinguish, indicating start of blink code cycle.
7. During start phase, observe ABS warning light. See Fig 3 . Start phase consists of the following:
   • Pause - 2.5 seconds (long).
   • Flash - 2.5 seconds (long).
   • Pause - 2.5 seconds (long).
   • Flash - 0.5 seconds (short).
8. During the first part of code number, a pause of 2.5 seconds precedes a series of short flashes. Count flashes until next long pause occurs, number obtained is first part of code number.
9. During the second part of code number, a pause of 2.5 seconds occurs between first and second parts, before a second series of short flashes occurs. The number of flashes forms second part of code number. See Fig 4 .
10. The sequence of start phase, first and second parts will continue until terminated by operator, thus allowing code obtained to be rechecked.
NOTE: Termination will clear memory of that particular fault. Do not terminate sequence if unsure of code number.
11. To terminate sequence disconnect prewired plug from diagnostic plug. Wait for cycle to end before code will clear.
12. The memory is capable of storing more than one fault. To search memory, reconnect diagnostic plug, and await next start phase.
13. Repeat procedure until no further faults are stored in memory. The memory is cleared when a long pause of 7.5 seconds occurs after start phase.