How to check engine light codes on a 1989 Old Regency without a OBD scan tool?

A scan tool allows for the OBD II (On Board Diagnostics) codes to be read from the engine computer in a car. These are common electronic diagnostics tools used by automotive technicians. They are usually used when a check engine light comes on to determine the error codes associated with the check engine light.


They almost always connect via a standard plug on the divers side under the dash.


Most automotive parts supplier will check a car with complementary service to determine the codes stored in a customers automobile.

What year an make vehicle ? Before 1996 you can do that on some make vehicles , not all ,GM cars mostly ! 1996 an above need scanner for all vehicle makes !

You'll have to do a scan on the computer to find the trouble codes.
Your model can be done without a scan tool, research "check OBD 1 code Ford" online for the procedure, or you can find it in most repair manuals.

When the Check Engine Soon Light comes on , your first instinct is to pull over and check out the situation. This is not necessary. This is the vehicles way of letting you know at its earliest stage that an error has occurred. No need to panic. If you have been driving with that all annoying light on, remember this : Your gas mileage will improve if the necessary repairs are made.
LOOKING FOR CODE INFORMATION GO HERE : DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES




The first thing to do when your "Check Engine Soon" light comes on is to determine the immediate cause. Consider if the vehicle is still performing as usual or if a loss of performance is noticeable. Generally a constant illuminated light without loss of performance points to an emissions related issue( this won't leave you stranded). When the light flashes, this indicates a serious engine failure condition and will require immediate attention. You may wish to take your vehicle to a local shop and have Computer Diagnostics performed. Usually costs under $100.00.

Generally all vehicles from 1996 and up have an OBD II computer. The Major problem when it comes to OBD II is that you can no longer acquire the trouble codes by counting the flashes of the Check Engine light like you could on earlier OBD I vehicles. You can take your car into a local high-tech service shop, where the minimum charge for computer diagnostics and engine diagnostics might cost you somewhere into three digits. Or you may want to learn about OBD II systems. in order to do so you will need an OBD II scan tool. I have already done the research for you and located several different scan tools for you to choose from. If you already have the code and need to know what it means check out our complete list of OBD II Codes Here.

OBD II scan tools connect to the vehicle's computer through a connector under the dash by the steering wheel.

You can take the egr solenoid apart and clean the bottom of the solenoids to fix it. A failed egr valve will not keep it from starting. Check the fuel pressure, should be around 40.

no the obd ll is not like the older obd units where u could use a paper clip to get code ----most auto stores such as auto zone/advanced auto offer scans for free check ur local area but also check ur gas cap [for proper fit -on correctly]most common reason for check engine light good luck

Without a scan tool bridge the pins,turn key to on,not start and count the 'service engine soon' blinks to retrieve the codes.Good luck!

Have someone check it with a different scan tool it possible.Not all scan tools will work.If the light is coming on and you notice the vehicle is not running the same as before,there is a code in there and you have to get that code to diagnose the problem.

How to Replace a Throttle Position Sensor
(DIY & Save up to $135.75 ) - Time: 2.1 hours

Parts:
1. Throttle Position Sensor - $ 55.44

Tools:
1. Scan Tool
2. Screwdriver
3. Multimeter

Procedure:
1. Locate the OBD data link connector (DLC). Refer to your owner’s manual for the specific location.

• Tip: The OBD-I data link connector is usually located in the engine compartment near the battery or the fuse box. The OBD-II connector (post 1995 cars) is usually located beneath the instument panel next to the steering column.

2. Turn your key to the“ON” position. Do not start the engine.

3. Plug your scan tool into the OBD data link connector. Turn on the scan tool and select the appropriate steps to read the diagnostic trouble code (DTC).

Scanner plugged into OBD-II data link connector.

• Tip: The OBD-II diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is a 5 character alphanumeric code. The first digit is a letter that indicates the component group, the second digit is OBD mandated or manufacturer specfic, the third digit is a subgroup, and the fourth and fifth digits define the component and basic problem.
  

• 4. Locate the throttle position sensor.

• 
  
• Throttle position sensor
  

• 5. Disconnect the electrical connector from the throttle position sensor.

• 
  
• Electrical connector removed
  

6. Test the resistance of the throttle position sensor (TPS) with a digital multi-meter. If the resistance is out of specifications, the TPS must be replaced.

• 7. Remove the throttle position sensor.



Removing sensor mounting screws

8. Install the new throttle position sensor. Tighten the mounting screws and attach the electrical connector.

• 9. Erase the diagnostic trouble code (DTC) with the scan tool using the“delete” or“erase” command. Road test your vehicle to see if the check engine light returns.

Check engine light


• Tip: If the check engine light returns, repeat the diagnostic process for additional DTCs or take your vehicle to a certified repair shop.

Direct OE replacement

Hope helped with this. Good luck (remember rated this help).

An auto repair manual such as haynes or cylmer will show you how to jump the terminals and count the flashes and the code explanation