Hello,

The check engine light recently game on around 87k miles on my 2003 Mazda Protege DX. Is there a way I can test to see what the error code is using a paper clip setup? I've read on other Mazda models i can use a paper clip on the ground and 10 pin. I've checked all my fluid levels and can find anything obvious... unfortunately i'm staying in an apartment for the time being without any access to a garage. I mainly want to find out what the issue is before I take it anywhere so i don't get reamed in the *** for something completely made up.

 

u can carry it to a auto zone or advance they will put handheld computer on it and tell u what it is

 

Hi,

I'm one of those poor souls with an 1995 Millennia S that does not have an OBD-II connector. This has caused extensive amounts of misery. Urgent question:


What paper clip trick?

I've searched all the forums (forma?) but have not yet found the magic combination of words to turn up what the trick is. I've also tried Google and Yahoo without success. Any help would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks,
dan

 

Ok the paper clip trick is when you bridge out a pin in the 17 pin dlc plug under the hood. It will not work for OBD II sadly you will have to connect it to a diagnostic tool.

 

To clarify:
John, Although you have probably fixed the problem by now anyway, the paper clip trick will not work on your car because it is an OBDII system. It must be connected to a proper code reader.

lensman. Your car is an OBDI system and the paper clip trick will work... but I don't know the procedure for your particular vehicle.
Once the "paper clip"/jumper is connected, the check engine light should flash in a certain sequence, like Morse code. You may need an authorized Mazda dealer to read it for you... but a web search (Google, Yahoo, Bing) might be helpful too. Surly someone must have posted the codes by now somewhere.