Is there a way to see the check engine codes without a scan tool?

02V70 · Post by **02V70** » 20 Mar 2022, 17:26

Is there a way to see the check engine codes without a scan tool? My Volvo is a 2002 V70XC.

Post by **br0dy519** » 20 Mar 2022, 18:21

No you can’t see the codes. But you can see on the information screen on your DIM which modules currently have a code set.

Hold “read” on your left stock (high beam stock maybe?) and hit the front foglamp switch twice then scroll through the module DTC status for each one.

Post by **- Pete -** » 20 Mar 2022, 20:09

br0dy519 wrote: ↑20 Mar 2022, 18:21 No you can’t see the codes. But you can see on the information screen on your DIM which modules currently have a code set.

Hold “read” on your left stock (high beam stock maybe?) and hit the front foglamp switch twice then scroll through the module DTC status for each one.

Er, almost. It’s the rear fog button, though. You can’t access it while driving. You can, however, access it when not in motion, and then continue driving while scrolling (hitting the read button) to shuffle through the modules. It’ll say “DTC set” if there is a code in a module.
If not, it’ll say “REM ready”, or “_______ ready” for whichever module you have displayed.

If money is tight, I’d highly recommend some sort of ELM327 type Bluetooth reader to keep in the car. Just don’t leave it plugged in long term if the car isn’t being run, it’ll drain the battery.

Post by **br0dy519** » 20 Mar 2022, 20:16

Yes forgot to add definitely invest in a scan tool of some denomination. It will immediately pay for itself in both your time and labour costs. I have the JLR160 on the way for in-depth troubleshooting, but I keep a $25CDN Autel one in my car toolbag at all times. Cheap on sale at Princess Auto (Harbor Freight in the states I believe)

02V70 · Post by **02V70** » 20 Mar 2022, 21:38

br0dy519 wrote: ↑20 Mar 2022, 20:16 Yes forgot to add definitely invest in a scan tool of some denomination. It will immediately pay for itself in both your time and labour costs. I have the JLR160 on the way for in-depth troubleshooting, but I keep a $25CDN Autel one in my car toolbag at all times. Cheap on sale at Princess Auto (Harbor Freight in the states I believe)

Is this one good?
https://www.amazon.com/Autel-MS309-Universal-Readiness-Diagnostic/dp/B07Q5H7M5S/

Post by **- Pete -** » 20 Mar 2022, 22:00

I have one of those in the rear of each vehicle I own. They are OK. Being able to diagnose roadside is an absolute for me. Having the ability of Bluetooth via an ELM327, I would say, is much nicer. The Autel you shared is exclusively for pulling/clearing (rudimentary) codes. ViDA is needed for any Volvo-specific codes/clearing.
An ELM327 should set you back maybe $30 at most for a basic one. Make certain the one you get (and app) is compatible to your phone/tablet/whatever you will be using to view on. Another plus to ELM327 is you can view real-time data such as boost, air intake temp, pretty much any monitored parameter (depends on your year).

02V70 · Post by **02V70** » 21 Mar 2022, 21:46

Almost all of them are set. I am also having some problems with the dash. Could a problem in the dash be causing these error codes?

Post by **abscate** » 22 Mar 2022, 01:19

Clear the codes , see what comes back first

02V70 · Post by **02V70** » 22 Mar 2022, 10:17

abscate wrote: ↑22 Mar 2022, 01:19 Clear the codes , see what comes back first

How do I clear them? With a code scanner?

Post by **volvolugnut** » 22 Mar 2022, 13:55

I don't see that anyone has mentioned Auto Parts stores like Pep Boys have loaner scan tools to borrow. Their tool may also clear the codes.
You will really want to buy a scan tool for your own use. I like the AutoPhix ES610 because it reads and clears many Volvo codes. About $85 on Amazon. Check the details to see if it is right for your car.
volvolugnut