Code Reader Won't Read Codes?

[Gebo]

On my '98 Lexus LS400, I am getting 2 codes showing on my dash. One is the VSC red light. However, when I use my Blue Driver code reader to look up
the codes, nothing shows up. Then I try to erase them and the Blue Driver can't erase them. I have to unhook my battery to get rid of the codes. The Blue driver has worked fine in the past. Is it time for me to pony up with $300+ and get in the minor league?

 

[Kira]

Yes.

 

[Kestas]

First try using it on another car to see if the problem lies with the Blue Driver or the Lexus.

 

[D60]

It's previously worked for OBD codes, or it's previously worked for VSC codes?

This is a very important distinction. I suspect it can't access the manufacturer side.

 

[michaelluscher]

Which two warning lamps are lit on the dash?
Something that age might not play well with certain app based dongles
Or it can't do manufacturer codes/non PCM modules as @D60 said

Have you considered dedicating $20 or so and a spare old laptop to Techstream, Toyota's proprietary diagnostic software
Probably more cost effective than a more serious (and more expensive) scan tool

https://forum.ih8mud.com/threads/how-to-techstream-in-5-minutes.1034923/

 

[Gebo]

It's previously worked for OBD codes, or it's previously worked for VSC codes?

This is a very important distinction. I suspect it can't access the manufacturer side.

Both

 

[Gebo]

First try using it on another car to see if the problem lies with the Blue Driver or the Lexus.

I'm on it...

 

[Gebo]

First try using it on another car to see if the problem lies with the Blue Driver or the Lexus.

I guess I need a code first..

 

[Gebo]

It will read my VIN and hook up properly. Just won't read codes or erase codes.

 

[D60]

It will read my VIN and hook up properly. Just won't read codes or erase codes.

If it's reading your VIN and maybe giving you live data, it's communicating. It's just not drilling down to the specific complaint the vehicle has right now. Almost surely a manufacturer-specific module it can't see.

If you're willing to spend $300, try an Otofix D1 Lite. I'm not sure if Carista could solve your problem here -- they're heavily Toyota biased but I've never really used it for diag (just seat belt chimes)

 

[D60]

And just do something like unplug your MAF or ECT if you wanna create mass panic and codes. THEN if it can't read that, yeah it's a software issue.

 

[Kestas]

I guess I need a code first..

You could safely create one by unplugging the MAF sensor while the car is running.

 

[zzyzzx]

Is it time for me to pony up with $300+ and get in the minor league?

TechStream and a laptop. Your code reader doesn't do manufacturer specific codes.

 

[Donald]

TechStream and a laptop. Your code reader doesn't do manufacturer specific codes.

Is this like Forscan for Ford vehicles?

 

[zzyzzx]

Is this like Forscan for Ford vehicles?

Yes. I have Forscan AND Techstream on the same laptop. They use different adapters though. Forscan is way better though (has more capabilities). Essentially, Techstream is like Forscan, except for Toyota, but not as good.

 

[SC Maintenance]

VSC is part of ABS trouble codes is my guess. You will need to see if your current reader will read ABS codes for that year / model. My guess is it will not.

You could disconnect something like the MAF sensor for a minute to see if it will read an engine code, before you spend more money on a reader or whatever.

 

[Gebo]

That car is getting some seat repair at the upholstery shop. I’ll get it back Sunday after church. I’ll disconnect the MAF and see if it will recognize and erase that code.