02 ST: Scan/clear codes w/Snap-On car scanner (X-post)

[Stiles]

Just for giggles, I tried my Snap-On MT2500 car scanner to read and clear codes on my 02 Sprint ST today. The bike uses the same 16 pin universal OBDII datalink connector (DLC) as every car sold in the US since 1996.

I got all the codes, checked them for accuracy (they were accurate) and cleared them using the scanner keys. I also got some basic real time engine info with the bike running, although the update rate was slower than than the cars I work on. The info was accurate, though. One code even had the definition come up!

My setup used is the standard snap on scanner setup to pull generic trouble codes from any 1996 or newer car sold in the US. Any shop should have this setup at minimum: Snap-On MT2500 scanner using OBDII domestic primary cartridge 1996-2002 and domestic troubleshooter cartridge to 2002, with universal OBDII connector MT2500-46 and character key K-2A.

Operation is the same as pulling generic trouble codes from any car, as well. Select "generic OBDII" on the selector screen and away you go. It's not nearly as complete as the factory scan tool or tuneboy, but if you need to scan and clear codes for basic diag and repairs, it worked fine for me. These scanners are super-common and every car shop in the country probably uses one if they have any scanner at all. Handy if you're 200 miles fromt he nearest Triumph dealer and your bike pops a check engine light...

The usual disclaimers apply: I've only tried this on my own bike, YMMV, no warranties apply, use at your own risk, bla bla bla.

[vinnyf]

Thanks for the info, Stiles. I wondered if the connectors and connectivity on these bikes were the same as OBDII - I'll have to check out the one on my S3 (if it ever stops snowing...)

[Stiles]

No problem, vinnie. Bear in mind that the sagem SFI on my bike may react differently to the scanner than the SFI on your newer S3, so proceed with caution but let us know how it works out if you decide to try it.

- Ed

[SprintST]

If anything the Keihin should be MORE standardized than the Sagem. Could be worth looking into.

[vinnyf]

Finally got around to plugging my OBDII reader into my '06 S3 - seems to communicate just fine. Haven't tried to set a code, so I don't know how well it reads/resets MIL codes, but it did read general engine parameters and didn't cause any of the smoke to escape :wink:
YMMV, proceed with due caution, but it seems useful.

Unrelated question, maybe even the wrong forum, but does anyone know if the same obd2 scanner will work on a tt600

thanks
rohit.

[vinnyf]

Haven't tried it myself, but from what I hear, if it's got the right connector, it should plug and and at least sort of work. See who else responds before you take my word for it, tho... :hammer: