I'm a little bit confused.

My '03 recently overheated due to a bad fan clutch. Doing the ignition key dance (on/off/on/off/on) shows two codes: 0217 and 0480. (coolant overtemp and fan control). Replaced the fan clutch, and the overheat problem is gone.

Here's the strange part: I have a generic OBD-II scanner that I've used many times on other vehicles. I haven't used it on this truck until now. When I plug it in and turn the key on, it links with the computer fine. When I tell it to get the fault codes, it thinks for a few seconds, then says there are no codes. The ignition key dance still shows those two codes. Not suprisingly, I can't clear the codes either.

I have two questions:
1. Is there a way to clear the fault codes without using a code reader?
2. Can anyone think of any reason my reader doesn't seem to find any codes when there are clearly two codes there?

 

I am pretty sure the 3Gs use the OBD-III scanner tool.

 

This may help or hurt. I picked up a scanner last year Actron OB II CP9135 and it read codes and cleared them for me. I was getting the 0071 (air temp rational) and was just heading for a long trip. I did not want to look at the CEL. I think it was an Auto Zone and was around $90.

 

I think you can clear them by disconnecting the batteries and then turn the key on for about a minute. I have not tried it on my truck yet but it worked on the wife's van.

 

I know at least the '06s are CAN bus...As far as I know, the OBDIII spec has not been implemented.

Tony

 

To clear the fault codes disconnect both batteries, You will need two people for the next step, at each battery with the cables disconnected touch that specific battery + and - together for about 30secs. Re-connect both battery cables and check the codes, the will be cleared. What this process does is discharge the capacitors in the ecm.

Cheers

 

I'm not sure what model, but mine is an Actron as well. The form factor and button layout is similar to This but it isn't the Spanish version.

Very strange.

I'll try the battery cable thing that Wildone suggested.

 

It should clear the codes after million restarts.