check engine light is on in my 1990 4runner?

Question

is there any way my 90 toyota 4 runner can shoot a code, without me having to take it to a shop?

Answer 1

Russg has it the closest. Go here----->

http://autorepair.about.com/library/ts/obd-i/bl-dtcs-90.htm

...and scroll down below the code chart for an illustration of the connections necessary for retrieving the codes. With the codes in hand, refer to the chart for the corresponding circuit or system responsible for the code.

Good Luck and Merry Christmas

Answer 2

Your check engine light has come on because the ecu has detected a fault in one of the sensors it monitors, and as the drivability of the vehicle has not been effected [ is that correct?] i would assume it to be a minor fault like a fluid level or overheated catalytic converter and you could try disconnecting the battery earth cable for a few seconds, only do this with the engine not running and the ignition turned off. If after this the light still stays on you will need to visit your auto repair shop. now i notice russ g has given you the technically correct answer. so you get the information and you run the codes, now lets say it comes up with ignition module, do you what that is and where to find it? and lets say you do, do you rush out and buy one [and they are not cheap] fit it and then it runs the same fault, what do you do now obviously the module was not the problem, maybe the fault is in the wiring a bad connector or earth do you now how to test for these faults? what if in running the codes you get several faults do you go and buy all the faulty components [could cost a small fortune] multiple faults can be caused by a faulty earth, do you now how to test for a faulty earth, do you where to find that earth? if you are that technically proficient that you can do all this with confidence then you should be answering questions not asking them.

Answer 3

Without Scan Tool
Notes

To obtain an output of diagnostic codes, proceed as follows:


Initial conditions
(a) Battery voltage above 11 volts.
(b) Throttle valve fully closed (throttle position sensor IDL points closed).
(c) Transmission in neutral position.
(d) Accessory switches OFF.
(e) Engine at normal operating temperature.

Turn the ignition switch to ON. Do not start the engine.








Connect terminals T and E1 of the check connector located near the No.2 relay block.








Read the diagnostic code as indicated by the number of flashes of the "CHECK ENGINE" warning light.








(a) Normal system operation.

The light will blink 2 times per second.








(b) Malfunction code indication.

The light will blink a number of times equal to the malfunction code indication as follows: Between the first digit and second digit, 1.5 second pause.
Between code and code, 2.5 second pause.
Between all malfunction codes, 4.5 second pause.


The diagnostic code series will be repeated as long as the check connector terminals T and E1 are connected.
Note: In the event of a number of trouble codes, indication will begin from the lowest numbered code and go up.



After the diagnosis check, remove the SST.










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Answer 4

You can jumper wire the flat connection on the left side or middle under the dash (#2 to #6?) Turn on the key and the check engine light will blink out a sequencial code. Count the light flashes and then look them up in a manual. (I usually just go to the local auto parts store and browse their manuals)

Good Luck!

Answer 5

well obviosuly you will get the light. the light that says :check engine: is kind of like an antivirus on a computer, it always checks how the car is running, and if somethings i going wrong or there is a problem, i will show it to you, like a antivirus program notifies you that there is a virus. it is usualy an engine or car problem but it will show up if you dont tighten the lid, well enough when you fill up with gas. you shouldk hear 3 clicks, to know that its tight enough

Answer 6

go to the auto parts store and buy a book for your vehicle or have them shoot the code.Many auto part store offer that service free