Pulling codes, can't use scan tool

roadog1aj · #1 (**permalink**) 11-07-09, 03:08 PM

Well, I've searched and searched, but cannot find any instructions for pulling the service engine codes on my 06 STS4. I tried using my scan tool, but it keeps saying "communication error". Not sure if the fact that I cannot do like most cars with a key...."Turn Key on, but not start" (Key FOB only allows for Accessory, or Start. The "Service Engine" light stays on (does not blink/flash) so I believe it is emissions related, but would like to pull the codes and see what's up. Does anyone know how what steps to take to pull the codes?

LAC_STS · #2 (**permalink**) 11-07-09, 03:21 PM

Im pretty sure the code reader has to be compatible with a canbus system.

roadog1aj · #3 (**permalink**) 11-07-09, 03:50 PM

Not sure about the compatibility of my reader, so that's why I'm hoping someone can instruct me on the manual way to pull up the codes.

LAC_STS · #4 (**permalink**) 11-07-09, 03:59 PM

If you are refering to how you could pull codes on the DIC in the older Seville and Deville, you cannot do that on the STS. You need a code reader that is Canbus comatible. That is why even ith a $3000 Tech II you still need a $600 Candi module to use it on the STS.

roadog1aj · #5 (**permalink**) 11-07-09, 04:37 PM

Bummer!
Thanx for the info LAC STS, that was what I had hoped to do. No big deal, I will take it to the dealer next week. It may be related to the repair work they just performed last Thursday.....new water pump. I just wanted to see if I could figure it out before taking it back to the. I miss the good old days when a simple fella could trouble shoot pretty much all the problems with his car without constant trips to the dealer.

LAC_STS · #6 (**permalink**) 11-07-09, 05:06 PM

Me too. There is an online petition you can sign up for that is trying to get congress to make it where auto makers like GM can't hide information or require dealer only tools to fix cars. Try googleing "right to fix my own car" or something like that.

I doubt it will change anything but I signed up for it anyways. It sends a letter to your congresman asking them to support is and adds your name to list of thousands for when they go to congress with it.

You can buy a scan tool that is canbus enabled at many auto parts stores. They are not too expensive. All it will do is pull codes.

roadog1aj · #7 (**permalink**) 11-07-09, 05:29 PM

Thanx! I'll go look for that petition and sign up! Can't gripe about it, if I won't try to help change things too! I'll check on a new scanner too.

dkozloski · #8 (**permalink**) 11-07-09, 05:44 PM

Push the blue OnStar button and ask them to read out the codes for you. You can also go to AutoZone or some other parts dealer and they'll read out the codes for you.

roadog1aj · #9 (**permalink**) 11-07-09, 06:04 PM

I didn't think On-Star would be available for that if I didn't pay for the service at this time.

dkozloski · #10 (**permalink**) 11-07-09, 06:34 PM

It only costs $15/mo. I can't imagine a Cadillac owner that can't afford that.

roadog1aj · #11 (**permalink**) 11-07-09, 09:15 PM

Hello dkosloski, my name is Tightwad, pleased to meet you. Now I'm the 1st Cadillac owner you know who doesn't pay for On-Star

dkozloski · #12 (**permalink**) 11-07-09, 10:18 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by roadog1aj

Hello dkosloski, my name is Tightwad, pleased to meet you. Now I'm the 1st Cadillac owner you know who doesn't pay for On-Star

Actually I know quite a few. It's still a mystery to me. Where I live OnStar will provide cell phone service when much less robust hand held devices won't. To me it's well worth the money for the protection it offers my family.

LAC_STS · #13 (**permalink**) 11-07-09, 10:58 PM

Have you ever read Onstars terms of use agreement? Some people, including me and the person who wrote the FAQ on caddyinfo.com about this subject, don't want Onstar reporting every where you go to whomever pays for the info. Some peoe don't care for another type of a big brother.

So just because someone doesn't have Onstar acivated doesn't make them cheap.

If I wanted it activated and it was $100 a month I would have it. But I don't want it, and I don't want it sending tracking info to whoever they want so not only do I have it not activated but I have it disconnected.

dkozloski · #14 (**permalink**) 11-08-09, 03:18 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by LAC_STS

Have you ever read Onstars terms of use agreement? Some people, including me and the person who wrote the FAQ on caddyinfo.com about this subject, don't want Onstar reporting every where you go to whomever pays for the info. Some peoe don't care for another type of a big brother.

So just because someone doesn't have Onstar acivated doesn't make them cheap.

If I wanted it activated and it was $100 a month I would have it. But I don't want it, and I don't want it sending tracking info to whoever they want so not only do I have it not activated but I have it disconnected.

Just because you're paranoid doesn't mean they ain't after you.

EChas3 · #15 (**permalink**) 11-08-09, 03:18 PM

LAC STS-

Customer Service vs. Privacy

Did you know your cellphone probably does the same thing? How else do advertisers in public places (airports, etc.) targit ads to buying patterns linked to your number. By default, most cell phones can broadcast while off!

Do you use grocery store member cards for discounts?

You're not paranoid when they really are out to get you (your $).