Diagnosing issues with your 1997 Ford Explorer can be frustrating, especially when the OBD2 port refuses to communicate with your scanner. This guide will walk you through potential reasons why your OBD2 scanner might not be reading data from your Ford Explorer and offer some solutions to get you back on track.
One common and affordable approach for DIY diagnostics is utilizing smartphone apps. For Android users, apps like ForScan are highly recommended. ForScan, readily available on the Google Play Store for a small fee, is capable of reading ABS codes and offers enhanced diagnostics for Ford vehicles. To use ForScan, you’ll need a Bluetooth OBD2 adapter. It’s crucial to choose a compatible adapter, as some generic OBD2 adapters might not fully support the Ford communication protocol. A reliable option, as tested by many Ford owners, is the BAFX Products Bluetooth OBD2 scan tool.
Beyond basic code reading, apps like Torque Pro, also available for Android, expand your diagnostic capabilities. For around $30, Torque Pro provides access to a wide range of PIDs (Parameter IDs), allowing you to monitor various engine and transmission parameters in real-time while driving. This eliminates the need for installing numerous physical gauges for monitoring things like transmission temperature or boost pressure. While dedicated gauges might still be necessary for parameters like Exhaust Gas Temperature (EGT) or fuel pressure, Torque Pro covers a significant portion of commonly monitored data.
For a more comprehensive, albeit potentially more expensive, solution, professional-grade scan tools like AutoEnginuity are available. While offering extensive diagnostic features, these tools often require a laptop and might be less convenient for quick checks compared to smartphone-based solutions. The convenience of using your smartphone, which you likely always have with you, makes apps like ForScan and Torque Pro a compelling choice for many Ford Explorer owners for everyday OBD2 diagnostics.
Regardless of the tool you choose, remember a crucial step: always pull and clear diagnostic codes with the engine turned off. Attempting to do so with the engine running can sometimes lead to issues, potentially stalling the engine. This is thought to be related to the scanner attempting to retrieve the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) using a PID that is not correctly supported, causing communication problems. By following these steps and using the right tools, you can effectively diagnose and address OBD2 communication issues on your 1997 Ford Explorer.
