Common principles of diagnostic with FORScan

[Beckyhebert]

EXCELLENT INFO!! Thank you! Becky

[bekan]

Guys, I'm sorry to bother you with these kind of trivial stuff but I need to ask because I haven't seen a specific answer to this. My question is how is the procedure for erasing codes on Mk2 Focus 1.6 TDCi. Does the engine need to be on or just ignition on and what do I do after I've cleared the codes - do I turn it off or start it after clearing? If anyone can post a short step by step guide I'd be very, very grateful. You're probably thinking I'm being too cautious but as it is my first time I'd like to do it properly. Cheers, take care.

[S1Andyp]

Always engine off usually and ignition on for clearing fault codes it should prompt you what to do if it doesn't erase your codes disconnect diagnostic from vehicle switch ignition off for 10 secs and then back on and reconnect diagnostic programme that's normally what I do.

[DGeorge747]

I meant to follow up on my post but it slipped my mind.

The problem I had described above was a weak battery.

Changed battery and reset BMS.

II am still wondering if there is an in depth user manual for FORScan that lists what the various information types mean and what the various readings should be.

Any help in this direction would be greatly appreciated.

TIA

[ShortBedDually]

This site -> https://www.dtcdecode.com/ can help determine what the codes mean.

This is great, thanks for posting it.

[MaidMarion]

I had my dash out of my car yesterday (again) re-checking all the wiring to make sure I hadnt missed anything when I repaired it all a few weeks ago. I knew I was going to get the extended license today so the fewer DTCs the fewer headaches..Im now immobilised out of the vehicle. I had to share...if you dont laugh you cry

[forredtran]

I just used FORScan for the first time on my 2015 Escape last night.
And:
In realation to :
If a battery charger is to be used each time FORScan is used.

Interesting thoughts re battery and clicks.

The van I have clicks from near the battery (the batteries are under the drivers seat) just after going to starter key on or and when the engine is started.
It clicks without Forscan being connected to the vehicle.

The time delay varies but seems to be not longer than 1 minute.

Making it all more complex and time consuming. In the 70s a car with a low/flat battery could be pushed to start it. Bump started or jump started from another battery.

Recently found a problem with a plastic electrical/electronic connector - been weeks at it - 4 hours yesterday and found it was not going all the way on short by about 1/32" - I shall not go into the details - simply put it is tedious. To add to that tedious and frustrating.

I should say that without Forscan I'd still be wondering.
I can wonder how it is that people with education and qualifications can make a mess of a simple thing.