Understanding why your “Check Engine” light is on in your 1995 Ford Explorer is the first step to fixing any issues. While the term “OBD2 code list” might be commonly searched, it’s important to clarify that your 1995 Ford Explorer actually uses an OBD1 system. This means retrieving diagnostic trouble codes is a bit different from newer vehicles. This guide will walk you through how to read these OBD1 codes on your 1995 Ford Explorer using a simple method with just a wire and your vehicle’s Check Engine Light.
Identifying the EEC Test Connector
To begin, you’ll need to locate the EEC (Electronic Engine Control) test connector in your Ford Explorer. This connector is not connected to anything directly but is typically found in the engine compartment.
- Open your hood: Ensure your vehicle is safely parked and the engine is off.
- Locate the passenger side fender: Stand on the passenger side of your vehicle and look towards the fender wall, closer to the firewall.
- Find the connectors: You are looking for a set of connectors housed in a protective plastic piece. There will be:
- A larger, black connector with six terminals.
- A smaller, single gray connector.
Unclip both of these connectors from the protective plastic housing so they are accessible for the next steps.
Performing the KOEO (Key On Engine Off) Test
This test, known as KOEO (Key On Engine Off), allows you to retrieve the stored trouble codes by observing flashes from your “Check Engine” light.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare your jumper wire: You’ll need a short piece of wire, like a paper clip or a small gauge wire, to act as a jumper.
- Connect the terminals:
- Orient the larger black connector so the row of four terminals is facing downwards and the row of two terminals is facing upwards.
- Insert one end of your jumper wire into the top right terminal of the black connector (the right terminal of the two-terminal row).
- Connect the other end of your jumper wire into the single gray connector.
- Turn the key to “Run”: Turn your ignition key to the “Run” position. Do not start the engine.
- Observe the Check Engine Light: Watch your “Check Engine” light closely. It will begin to flash a series of codes.
Reading the Flash Codes
The trouble codes are communicated through flashes of the “Check Engine” light. These flashes are in a numerical sequence. Let’s use the code “212” as an example to understand how to read them:
- First Digit (2): The light will flash twice, followed by a short pause (about 1/2 second).
- Second Digit (1): After the short pause, the light will flash once, followed by a longer pause (about 2 seconds).
- Third Digit (2): Following the longer pause, the light will flash twice again, followed by a longer pause (about 2 seconds).
- Code Separation: There will be a longer pause of about 4 seconds between each complete code.
You’ll need to count the flashes and record them to determine the trouble codes. Repeat this process for all the codes that are flashed.
Understanding KOEO and Continuous Codes
After the initial KOEO codes are displayed, there will be a 6-second pause, followed by a single flash, and another 6-second pause. Following this, “Continuous Codes” will be displayed in the same flash sequence as the KOEO codes. Continuous codes are codes that were present during the last driving cycle but may not be currently active.
Clearing Codes
If you wish to clear the stored trouble codes after diagnosing and repairing the issue, you can simply unplug the jumper wire while the test is running. This will reset the system and clear the codes.
By following these steps, you can effectively read the OBD1 trouble codes on your 1995 Ford Explorer and begin to diagnose any engine-related problems indicated by your “Check Engine” light. Remember to consult a repair manual or online resources specific to 1995 Ford Explorer OBD1 codes to understand the meaning of each code you retrieve.
