Engine Codes
If the [=ECU=] (Electronic Control Unit) detects a problem, the orange “Check Engine” light comes on. This in itself isn’t very helpful. However, it’s pretty simple to get the orange “Check Engine” light to provide a little more information as to what might be wrong.
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Open the service connector (a little black box, about 1" square, at the very back of the can near air intake). Short the terminals marked T and E1 with a wire. /MK1/diagnosis-box.jpg
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Turn all accesories off, especially A/C. Put the ignition key in ON position. The orange “Check Engine” light on the dash should flash. The lights will flash with 2.5 seconds between each error code, and with a 4.5 second gap before repeating.
| !Number of Blinks | !Meaning |
|---|---|
| 1 | Normal – no problem |
| 2 | Air Flow Meter |
| 3 | Ignition |
| 4 | Water Temp Sensor |
| 5 | [[Oxygen Sensor]] |
| 6 | RPM |
| 7 | Throttle Position Sensor |
| 8 | Intake Air Temp Sensor |
| 10 | Starter |
| 11 | Switch signal (A/C switch ON) |
Thus the sequence below would translate to an Ignition problem and a problem with the Oxygen Sensor.
->3 flashes -- 2.5 second gap -- 5 flashes -- 4.5 second gap -- 3 flashes -- 2.5 second gap -- 5 flashes ...
Clear the ECU Memory
Once you’ve identified and fixed the problem you need to clear the ECU memory, otherwise when you next get a problem, you’ll see the old problem, followed by the new code.
Either:
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Remove the 7.5A `AM2 fuse in the main fusebox near the battery.
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Disconnect the battery for around 10 seconds. Obviously this is going to reset your clock, radio settings, etc.