How do I manually pull engine trouble codes?

[mexisurf]

I don't have an OBD2 handy but I know it is possible to use the diagnostic box to read the codes as my check engine light is flashing. Can someone walk me through the process or send me to a thread that has this info? Having a misfiring problem I am trying to troubleshoot. '99 4runner 3.4L 4x4

 

[kball]

I've heard of reading abs codes using the diag box but not obdII codes. Maybe you can but getting a cheap $50 reader is much easier! If you can't get one I'd say since your misfire is bad (since the CEL is flashing) you can just pull plug wires. Once you find the one or more that does not affect how it is running you found your problem cylinder.

 

[TheDurk]

I've heard of reading abs codes using the diag box but not obdII codes. Maybe you can but getting a cheap $50 reader is much easier! If you can't get one I'd say since your misfire is bad (since the CEL is flashing) you can just pull plug wires. Once you find the one or more that does not affect how it is running you found your problem cylinder.

Well, except that there are only three circuits, 1&4, 2&5, 3&6, given the three-coil wasted-spark setup. Get or borrow a reader. And don't waste time. Flashing CEL means your cat is dying every second you run it like that.