Full System Code Reader?
I have a couple of code readers but they only seem to access engine functions. Is there a source to read all codes? I.e. air bag faults. Any companies that let you use theirs or will check for all cod...
Forum Discussion
Gdetrailer wrote:Wayne Dohnal wrote:
It really does depend on the specific vehicle. Using my Sprinter chassis as an example, there are "zillions" of codes from every computer in the vehicle that can be accessed via the OBD port, but Mercedes has done an effective job of keeping the chassis-specific codes a secret. There are only a few several thousand $ devices that can read the proprietary codes. You'd probably have better luck on a forum dedicated to the chassis type, rather than an RV forum.
X2
Most aftermarket OBD readers have very limited amount of codes they are able to "read". Most of those codes which CAN be read will be for the ENGINE ONLY.
OBDII ports do have ALL codes available but they do not typically release what all the codes mean.
Reading any other codes including transmission and body codes WILL require a very, very expensive reader from the manufacturer of the vehicle.
Your best bet is to take to your vehicle manufacturers dealer, pay the ransom money to have them hook it up to your vehicle ($100-$200?)..
THE DEALER is the ONLY reliable way of getting the body codes read CORRECTLY.
while I do agree than many "generic" code readers limit the readout to ECM stuff, reading other stuff may or may not be difficult. I've queried many non ecm related codes on my silverado, including many transmission and BCM codes as well, Things like fuel level and any transmission status info as well. and on my mercedes I can get virtually all the codes through the obdII port with simple available SW. That includes things like checking the headrest motors, door lock functions, seat position, seat heater operation, all the AC codes including reading AC pressure.
And alldata often has a very comprehensive and extensive list of codes, not just ECM but body, transmission, etc. along with the recomended diagnostic tree if you need to decipher codes.
However, resetting safety related codes, such as air bag can be very very difficult to do. As you might expect, from a liability standpoint the mfg don't want things like that to be reset without verifying that whatever cause the code to be set is fixed and there are no related issues.
For example on my mercedes, I can easily reset virtually all the codes, except a few "safety" ones, like the airbag. that takes a unique tool to reset.
