I'm shopping for a D1 and have run into a few with dash lights. Wondering if its worth buying/borrowing an ODB tool (along with a D1 code printout) to take with me. The sellers always have some story about how the ABS or CEL light is nothing, so I figure a tool would help answer some questions. No?

Along those lines, if the ABS light is on could that just mean the brake pads are out of spec? Do they even have a wear sensor?

Also, should the CEL come on if there is an ABS issue or is the CEL indicative of a emissions system failure?

Thanks for any tips along these lines. I've found a wide variety of D1s 95-99 in my area from $2,500 to $9,000 and with 80-150K miles. Now just have to narrow the field!!!

 

If the ABD light is on, a normal scanner won't be able to read those codes, you will need something like the dealers test book or an AutoLogic scanner.
If the check engine light is on, it is because the engine is reaady for a service or there is a fault code stored for an engine problem.
To protect yourself, you should have the seller pay to have the codes read before you consider buying the truck or you may come up with a very expensive repair the buyer was not wanting you to see.
Mike

 

Thanks for the advice. So it sounds like having an ODB tool on hand while Disco shopping isn't that useful. I agree that if the buyer isn't willing to spend a few bucks to have codes read (especially for a low miles or "immaculately kept" Disco) its a red flag.

Are there any independents with the proper tools in the Central/South Denver area (where most of the used Discos seem to be located) that you'd recommend, or a particular LR dealer tech?

 

Just so you know, if the check engine light is on, any Autozone Parts store will read it and tell you what the codes are for free.. Most of the time it is injectors...

 

Having an OBD reader is handy. I got an interface that connects my laptop (or desktop) to the OBDII interface plug on my Disco. It was about $100 and of course you need to install the software on your computer also. It won't do anything with the ABS codes though, unfortunately. But anyone who shrugs off a CEL on a car he is trying to sell you is hiding something. They don't come on for nothing. If you took it to a reputable garage to have them check it out for you I'm sure they would read the codes and tell you the probable cause. Sometimes the codes need some interpretation and often that takes experience. But like okdiscoguy said, Autozone will read them, and you can find the explanations on line also.