Reading Diagnostic Trouble Codes

*** UPDATED BY TSB #249102 DATED JAN 31 1991

Displaying Fault Codes [California (Digifant I)]

Jumper Cable Assembly:

If Volkswagen tester VAG 1551 is not available, access fault codes using jumper cable #357 971 514E, located in the trunk or glove box.

DISPLAYING FAULT CODES

1. Turn ignition switch ON or START engine and let idle (1300 rpm maximum).

Diagnostic Connectors:

2. Connect jumper cable #357 971 514E to the diagnostic connectors located in center console. BLACK connector to BLACK diagnostic connector and WHITE connector to WHITE diagnostic connector.
3. Maintain connection for at least 2.5 seconds then remove jumper cable.

Digifant I Check Engine Light:

4. The "CHECK" light will flash the first 4 digit code. Each sequence of flash codes will represent 1 number of the code. For example, two flashes, a pause, then three flashes, a pause, then four flashes, a pause, then two flashes indicates a CODE 2-3-4-2 (oxygen sensor system fault).
5. Leave ignition switch "ON" more than one fault code may exist, display them by repeating display procedure above. Record all fault codes Diagnostic Trouble Code Descriptionsfor fault location and possible causes.
6. Repeat display procedure until CODE #4444 (no faults recorded) or CODE #0000 (end of fault code sequence) is displayed. CODE #0000 is displayed as 2.5 second flashes at 2.5 second intervals.
7. To end fault code read out, connect jumper cable one additional time or turn ignition switch OFF.

ERASING FAULT CODES

1. Turn ignition switch OFF.
2. Connect jumper cable as before, BLACK to BLACK, WHITE to WHITE.
3. With jumper cable connected turn ignition switch ON.
4. Remove jumper cable after 2.5 seconds.
5. Fault code #4444 (no faults recorded) will flash.
6. To end sequence, turn ignition switch OFF. Fault code memory is now clear.