DTC acess through the DIC on NBS possible??

99-2door · December 13, 2003

Since 97 corvettes have had the ability to show stored DTCs thorugh the DIC without an external computer or code reader. (Most corvette owner's are not aware of this function) That got me to thinking, now that the trucks have the more advanced DIC is it possible to retrieve DTCs from them the same way? Probably not, but it would have been a nice little bone for GM to throw our way.

Cop_Dodger · December 13, 2003

No, you can't read the codes without the correct scan tool (as of late 1995). There are actually some codes that you can't read without the GM Tech 2. The Tech 2 is around $2500 plus upgrades if your interested.

JayMan · December 14, 2003

All the popular OTC scantools are "GM Certified" for bidirectional or "SPS reprogramming," and can fully access the extended DTC's.

I've played with the Tech2 and find it hard to use, but that might be my poor eyes and the low quality display. The Genisys is MUCH better, crystal-clear color display, though 2X the cost.

Autotap makes good scantools that interface to the port with a PDA or a laptop. If you really want to dig into the extended features, there is Autotap EFILive Pro. If you already have a compatible Palm or Laptop, this is way way cheaper than buying a dedicated OTC scantool.

Not sure why GM allows some DTC's to scroll in the Corvette but not in the other brands. You'd think this would save the tech a lot of time. Be thankful it's not a foreign car where you must use the OEM scantool, which you and I are NOT allowed to buy!