Reading Codes - Check Engine versus Other Codes

[jac04]

My 'SERV 4WD' light came on. No check engine light or other lights. I have a Foxwell NT301 code reader, so I plugged it in and it showed no codes. So, I took it in to the dealer.

The dealership states that they checked for DTCs and "found DTC C140A-11 ", which is a code for Transfer Case Motor Performance.

Is there a reason why my code reader did not show this code? Do I need some other type of device to read codes other than the ones that set off the Check Engine Light?

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[TroutFishingInAmerica]

My 'SERV 4WD' light came on. No check engine light or other lights. I have a Foxwell NT301 code reader, so I plugged it in and it showed no codes. So, I took it in to the dealer.

The dealership states that they checked for DTCs and "found DTC C140A-11 ", which is a code for Transfer Case Motor Performance.

Is there a reason why my code reader did not show this code? Do I need some other type of device to read codes other than the ones that set off the Check Engine Light?

Ok, here is my wild ass guess. Code DTC C140A-11 is Mopar specific code, I’m guessing your code reader is more generic and didn’t pick up the code. The OBD2 has some generic codes that are shared across the board on different makes and models, but they left room for manufacturers to have their own specific codes and or proprietary codes. This is a simple explanation, it’s slightly more complex than this, but this is my guess why your code reader didn’t pick it up and the dealer did. There is some Jeep specific software and with a blue tooth adapter in the OBD2 port (or bypass) will give you more detail information and read some of the Jeep codes. I know, more money, it never ends. Good luck.

 

[TroutFishingInAmerica]

AlphaOBD
Jscan
OBDLink MX+
Check this stuff out and see if it’s anything you would be interested in.

 

[jac04]

Ok, here is my wild ass guess. Code DTC C140A-11 is Mopar specific code, I’m guessing your code reader is more generic and didn’t pick up the code. The OBD2 has some generic codes that are shared across the board on different makes and models, but they left room for manufacturers to have their own specific codes and or proprietary codes. This is a simple explanation, it’s slightly more complex than this, but this is my guess why your code reader didn’t pick it up and the dealer did. There is some Jeep specific software and with a blue tooth adapter in the OBD2 port (or bypass) will give you more detail information and read some of the Jeep codes. I know, more money, it never ends. Good luck.

Well, that does make sense. My reader has a "DTC lookup" feature, and when I put in the code that the dealership found, it says soemthing like 'manufacturer specific, no info available'. I figured it would at least tell me if the code was thrown, and then I would be on my own to figure out what it was. I guess this isn't the case.

 

[jac04]

...
Jscan
...
Check this stuff out and see if it’s anything you would be interested in.

OK, I was just checking out JScan. I had never really looked into it because I have no plans to make any changes to my JT, and I have a TrailDash installed on my JK that allows me to make all the changes to that vehicle.

So, I just want to make sure I've got this straight. If all I want to do is read all the codes, then I can just download the free JScan App on my phone and use the recommended iCar Vgate Pro 4.0 Bluetooth LE interface (for about $35)?

Is it really that easy and inexpensive?

 

[TroutFishingInAmerica]

OK, I was just checking out JScan. I had never really looked into it because I have no plans to make any changes to my JT, and I have a TrailDash installed on my JK that allows me to make all the changes to that vehicle.

So, I just want to make sure I've got this straight. If all I want to do is read all the codes, then I can just download the free JScan App on my phone and use the recommended iCar Vgate Pro 4.0 Bluetooth LE interface (for about $35)?

Is it really that easy and inexpensive?

I have the licensed version, not sure how indepth the free version goes into the diagnostics.

 

[TroutFishingInAmerica]

Just a disclaimer before you dip into your kids college fund. I am not 100% sure jscan would have picked up DTC C140A-11. It does read some Jeep specific and PROBABLY would have found it. I haven't seen that code on jscan with my own eyes so I can't actually testify. Caveat emptor.

 

[jac04]

Just a disclaimer before you dip into your kids college fund. I am not 100% sure jscan would have picked up DTC C140A-11. It does read some Jeep specific and PROBABLY would have found it. I haven't seen that code on jscan with my own eyes so I can't actually testify. Caveat emptor.

Yeah, I'm going to do a little more research on it. I appreciate your input.

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