Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums General Troubleshooting CEL and OBD2 software

I got a cel just day's before I got my OBD2
software for my computer. Its like my car knew about it or something. Anyway I hooked it up and I was expecting something like an O2 sensor code but it was P1518 - misfire
I didn't recall the car misfiring but I cleared the code and today I will see if it returns.
Otherwise drivability has been fine. I recently installed a y-pipe and have been enjoying the gains.

For those of you who have bought the OBD2 software for your computers, what did it come with? I was told to download the software from the web and all I got in the mail was a serial cable with a interface for my car. I ordered the tricom which as I understood was able to be used on most makes of cars. So I guess all cars have the same interface? Guess I could go try.

The following is from the Ford TSP (Technical Service Publication) CD:

DTCs P1518, P1537 and P1538 indicate IMRC may be stuck open. DTCs P1512, P1513 and P1519 indicate IMRC may be stuck closed. DTCs P1516 and P1517 indicate IMRC input error. DTC P1520 indicates IMRC control circuit malfunction.

Possible causes:

-- Cables improperly routed (binding) or seized.
-- Damaged/disconnected IMRC housing return springs.
-- Lever/shaft return stop obstructed/bent.
-- Lever/shaft wide open stop obstructed/bent.
-- IMRC lever/shaft stick/bind or disconnected.
-- IMRC actuator cable/gears seized.

* View cable routing. Make sure cables are not binding or improperly routed. For vacuum operated IMRC systems, make sure sensor linkage is attached and secure. Also, make sure IMRC sensor harness connectors are attached to the proper bank. They are interchangeable. If necessary, use a breakout box to pin out the harness connectors to the corresponding electronic EC pin. With engine off or at idle, cable core wire at IMRC housing attachment should have slack and lever should contact Closed Plate Stop Screw. Refer to the IMRC System Description in «Section 1A», Air Intake and Throttle Body, for illustrations.

* Manually open and close IMRC plates at intake manifold, feel for sticking/binding.

NOTE:
IMRC return spring is strong. Make sure return springs operate properly and plates open and close fully.


You will only receive the hardware in the mail. You will need to download the software yourself.

Download the software, the Defined Ford test results file, and the Enhanced Ford data file.

Install all of the files in the same directory.

If you want to use Vehicle Explorer to scan other cars (besides Fords), then you can download the other files on his site.


Yes, all cars from 1996+ use the same 16-pin interface. Different manufacturers use different pins though. That's why there are three payment options.