i3urton

i was driving home normally than all of a sudden a check engine and vsc light came on.... and it wont come off...this happen on my 2002 rx 300.

salimshah

Time for OBDII scanner to get a code dump. Folks say that AutoZone can do this for you.

Salim

Lexmex

Yes, please bring me that code.

i3urton

im thinking ill try resetting the ecu?? do i disconnect the neg or pos battery does it matter?

salimshah

Be aware that if you reset the ecu by disconnecting the ecu, you will not be able to read the code for a while.

Electrically it does not matter which you disconnect, but safety wise it is better to disconnect the "-" as it is the unshielded ground (chassis).


Salim

lexus114

You need to beware of that disconecting the battery stuff,some times that will put in an internal code.the obd2 system is pretty sophisticated.it will detect and store that information.The best way to clear the computer is go pick yourself up a mini scaner at auto zone.Sounds like we need them with our vehicles anyway.It will pay for it self,plus you will have access to your codes.

Lexmex

I was at an Advance Auto Parts yesterday and saw a reader from Actron just like mine on sale for under $50 USD.

lexus114

Lex,
That is the same one I have,plus a scanner too.but it works well.Your`s come with the book to decifer the codes?That is the safest way to clear codes.plus you dont loose any of your pre-sets etc.

Lexmex

Yes, I got a little book with mine (also has the codes in Spanish in the book).

i3urton

is the car safe to drive in the mean time?

lexus114

I wouldnt drive it too much,you dont know whats wrong. can do catayletic converter damage etc.

Lexmex

Depends on what it is and if you feel anything different. If it is just something like a P0171, you probably won't feel a thing. However, an a/f sensor may have the vehicle feeling a bit rough under acceleration.

lexus114

yeah,what he said

Lexmex

Converter damage could occur if the error is caused by what I like to call crap gas, which you have a greater chance of finding south of the border, and took out one of my 2 precats. However, you would have noticed something like that already. Keep an eye on your fuel consumption.

i3urton

lexmex and every one thanx for your help...i found out what happen... according to my mother the gas cap wasn't on all the way.... hopefully if some one sees the same problem.. they will check there gas cap..i feel so dumb .. please keep the flammin to minimum