Hello, I have a question for anybody who can help.
My check engine light just popped on, my truck is a 2002 Silverado 1500. There are about 220,000 k's on it.
I just bought the truck about 2 days ago from a used dealership.
I was wondering if anybody knew where I might be able to get my hands on a cable to hook a laptop up to the truck's computer and see what the problem is, or should I just take the truck to the dealership and have them take a look at it?
It has a powertrain warranty on it.
Is it worth my time looking into it myself or should I just let the dealership deal with it.
I have my own shop, nicely heated and I don't mind doing work on the truck, but is it worth doing so?
Much appreciated.

 

just take it to advance auto or something and have them read the code its giving

 

As mentioned, many of the "auto parts" stores will hook up a scanner and let you know the code(s) for free.

If you want to use your computer to read the codes, in addition to a cable, you also need some scanning software. (eg, Autotap).

Depending upon the code, the problem might be easy or hard

Let us know what you find.

- I just noticed you said you bought the truck 2 days ago; in that case, I'd take it back to the dealer (if nearby) and have them read the code.

 

Well, finally getting back to this, the check engine light was just a fluke apparently, could be the truck needs a knock sensor installed, it came on yesterday and shut itself off today so not sure.

 

have the codes read any way the code is still there just not active....its probably a p0300

 

Sounds like the dealership or whoever traded the truck in disconnected the battery long enough to clear the code long enough for you to get a few miles down the road. Those effers LOVE the term 'AS-IS'. Anyway, get that code checked out ESPECIALLY since you have the warranty. Don't wait.

 

Auto-Zone, napa, discount auto all do it for free, You can buy a scanner at Wal-Mart for $120 I bought one since i had a gift card but ti is nice to have every now and then. The dealer could have un-done the battery and the engine light will be off until the truck is started again. Sometimes twice on my silverado 2006.

 

The light has been off for quite a while and the last time it went on I was cruising down a pretty bumpy road... but I'll stop by Wal-Mart for sure and check out the scanners. Any kind recommended?

 

I would advise you to just take it to Auto-Zone/Advance Auto and have them check the stored codes.They will do it for FREE as many times as you want.Unless you do quite a bit of automotive troubleshooting I wouldn't worry too much about buying one.Just my thoughts.