Taurus Code Scanner plug in location - Ford Forums - Mustang Forum, Ford Trucks, Ford Focus and Ford Cars

laflaone · 02-10-2010, 09:36

I am getting ready to purchase an Actron OBD1 code scanner for my 89 Taurus GL, 3.8 engine. Where is the location this plugs in? I think it is under the hood, on the firewall, passenger side, but I have also read it is just to the rear of the alternator, mounted on the engine block. I've also read it is behind the glove compartment. Which is correct?

**chipset** · 02-10-2010, 12:47

On the fire wall passenger side. NEVER heard of the other places. WHY are you buying this code reader ? If your buying a $55.00 piece of junk it will only tell you a number. It's
up to you to figure out if this is your problem or did something else trigger the code.
OBD1 is not very precise. They didn't have the technology that the OBD2 has today.
To get that technology and live data stream for yesterdays OBD1 your scan tool will
cost about $3000.00. My OBD1 scan tool ( $2,500.00 on sale ) will give me the factory
codes for the keyless entry on the door touch pad. It also tells me what gear the
transmission shifted in and what RPM at what MPH. If you need it for reference it should
be ok. Read up on it. There is an old saying " rear, read, until your eyes bleed. "
Good luck.

laflaone · 02-10-2010, 13:49

Chipset, thank you for the first sentence of your reply, and the two word last sentence. As far as the price, it is $30.00 at Autozone, not $55.00. As far as it being a piece of junk, I guess that's up to me to decide.

**chipset** · 02-10-2010, 14:12

not a problem. Glad to help. ( in some way ? ). Thing is what kind of a code reader can
you get for $30.00 ? You can get the same result with an analoge volt meter or watch the engine light flashes in the dash for free.

thefonz · 02-10-2010, 14:16

Quote:

Originally Posted by laflaone

Chipset, thank you for the first sentence of your reply, and the two word last sentence. As far as the price, it is $30.00 at Autozone, not $55.00. As far as it being a piece of junk, I guess that's up to me to decide.

Wow!, Chipset was just giving you some info based on his knowledge and experience. (and was still leaving the ball in your court) He even said."If you need it for reference it should be ok" Don't let your youth and lack of experience get in your way of learning.

**jwko** · 02-10-2010, 16:32

Still yet, a cheap OBD1 scan tool is sufficient to get you the code(s), and the forum will help you in dealing with the code(s). That's what its here for

ryant35 · 02-11-2010, 15:33

FYI Pep Boys will pull the codes for free. They do charge to tell you what the code means, so if you have a Haynes or Chilton manual you can figure what your code is for free.

laflaone · 02-12-2010, 08:15

Thanks for all of your replys.