club.liberty.asn.au

Good morning,
I have the engine check light coming on and off randomly on my 99 outback.
I would like to check what error code is registered by the ECU, but the error code reader I have is not compatible with my outback as subis from this era were using a specific coding.
Do you know how much a dealer would charge to just connect their tool and give me the reading?
Any alternative to Subaru dealers to get that code?

I'm on a very limited budget (new born baby, wife's car with transmission issue...) so every dollar saved is welcomed...

Thanks guys!

Is it is a MY99 outback with SOHC engine?

There are two connectors under the drivers side dashboard.
One is Green
One is black.

You join one of these together to read the codes. (I do not remember which one as I am not at home at the moment)
The other connector will reset the codes if the DRC is cleared.
Turn the ignition to ON
A steady1/2 hertz flash of the Check Engine Light all okay.

A DTC will flash repeatedly in cyclic fashion.
The first flashes are the tens and the next flashes are the ones.
If there are more than one DTC they will flash in sequence and then repeat.
When you have the DTC, then you will need it interpreted.
You should be able to find them with a search on google.
Best of luck!

Update: Okay, check this previous post for the directions!
viewtopic.php?f=15&t=29897

Thanks Billy,
My car has the 16-pin data link connector (DLC) located near the steering column but despite this port being the same as used by OBD2 scanners, the coding is specific to Subaru (my understanding is that Subi was ODB2 compliant after 2002).
I will try an autopart retailer with a compatible reader, apparently some can make a reading for free or a minimal charge.

Zibou wrote:Thanks Billy,
My car has the 16-pin data link connector (DLC) located near the steering column but despite this port being the same as used by OBD2 scanners, the coding is specific to Subaru (my understanding is that Subi was ODB2 compliant after 2002).
I will try an autopart retailer with a compatible reader, apparently some can make a reading for free or a minimal charge.

The process outlined above does not meet your requirements?
For Gen 3 without OBD.....
There are two connectors under the driver's side dash.
One is for TEST MODE CONNECTOR (Green in colour) the other is READ MEMORY CONNECTOR (Black).
They will be presently unplugged.

Warm the engine up.
Turn the Engine OFF
Connect the READ MEMORY CONNECTOR (Black)
Turn the ignition to ON.

The MIL will flash you the Diagnostic Trouble Code.
OK is repeated ON for 0.5 sec OFF for 0.5 sec.
DTC is Long Pulse for Tens and short Pulse for ones.
Example Long - Long - Long -Short- off- Long - Long - Long -Short, repeated is DTC number 31.

Remember to disconnect the connectors when finished.