Retrieving trouble codes from a Subaru WRX (Page 2/3)
Patrick DEC 01, 02:44 AM

quote
Originally posted by Silicoan86:

I don't know if it's still the go-to brand these days, but I bought a cable similar to the one you posted above from Tactrix (Google it) for my WRX. Was the go-to brand cable a decade ago, and can be used for reading codes, data logging, as well as tuning/reflashing the stock ECU.



Great, thanks very much. I'll look it up!

[EDIT] Is this what you're referring to? Subaru diagnostic cable tuning Tactrix OBD2 with ft232bl chip If so, what is the vendor referring to here... "Please note that it does not include Jumper/flash block some Subaru's require in order to flash like the 02-03 WRX." I take it that whatever that part is, it's not required just to read the codes?


quote
Originally posted by Silicoan86:

But, if he's only modified the muffler and left the cats alone, the CEL shouldn't be on.



And that's exactly why I want to be prepared with a code reader when I go look at cars like this one.

[This message has been edited by Patrick (edited 12-01-2015).]

Silicoan86 DEC 01, 03:12 AM
That cable looks about right, but it's been so long I don't know for sure. Mine was black though. And you are correct, you do not need the flash block to read codes or data log, only to reflash the ECU.
1988holleyformula DEC 01, 11:07 AM
Glad to see someone with more knowledge than me was able to chime in. Awesome to see how helpful this place still is.

And yeah Patrick, a Honda...
Can't complain about 30mpg and only having to pay for regular unleaded though I guess.
thesameguy DEC 01, 03:32 PM
The cable is just the cable - you still need software, just like with a Fiero. You can buy ALDL cables cheaply, but you still need Tuner RT/Pro or whatever to do anything with them. I've got zero information on what software is available for Subarus, so you'd need to look into that. The "Audi cables" you see are typically intended to be used with VCDS Lite, a sort of analogue to Tuner RT for VAG products. I'm sure there is a go-to software for Subarus, but I'd do some looking. VCDS (full version) is a few hundred bucks, but does literally everything you could want to do with a VW or Audi. The same money could buy something like an Autel MD802 - about $300 - which will read most systems from most manufacturers. I avoided it for years, but last year finally caved and bought an MD802 because it works on pretty much everything and doesn't need a computer. Initially it seemed like a step backwards, but after of being able to quickly address virtually any MIL a friend or family member has presented I feel it's been worth it. I wish I would have just forked over the money seven or eight years ago instead of buying a half dozen $50 tools to address specific needs. Retrospectively, that was penny smart, pound foolish.
Silicoan86 DEC 01, 06:23 PM
These generations of Subarus' ECUs are open-source, and there are a few free programs that you can use. I do not remember the name of the ones that I used to use (ECUFlash or ECUtune maybe?) because that was 2007-2008, but I'm sure they're still available if you search. There are probably even better ones available now. You should only have to purchase the cable.
Patrick DEC 02, 03:41 PM
Oh man, I've sure been wasting a lot of time googling all this stuff... expecially considering I don't even own a Subaru yet.

I found some good info here - ConnectingToYourECU, and yes, the particular program they mention is EcuFlash. I've also seen a progran called RomRaider referred to a lot.

On various Subaru/WRX forums I've been reading about different types of cables (usually with the ft232bl chip) being tried, with varying degress of success. It seems that many people are hoping to get by with a $10 cable like This one. Everyone's looking for a bargain. Reminds me of Fiero folk (myself included).




quote
Originally posted by Silicoan86:

That cable... Mine was black though.



Such as the one in the above picture? Or perhaps there are dozens of similar appearing black OBD2 cables.

[This message has been edited by Patrick (edited 12-02-2015).]

Patrick DEC 02, 06:03 PM
This is a little bit off topic... but it's so stupid I had to post it.

I was looking at WRX ads from across the country in Craigslist, and I came across this 2002 WRX with something unusual mounted on the front bumper. I couldn't believe my eyes. It's an aftermarket oil cooler. What a great place to mount an oil cooler... and then have someone back into it while they're parallel parking in front of you. Can you say "no oil pressure"? Wow...




But it looks so good mounted there, right?

[This message has been edited by Patrick (edited 12-02-2015).]

Khw DEC 02, 10:20 PM
If you lived around here I'd let you borrow my code reader when checking cars. It does the OBDII codes including manufacturer specific codes but not the ABS. It might do the flashing... I'd have to check the book because I never needed to do that but it came with a CD and a cable that allows me to hook it up with a computer also.

Anyways, mine see's a lot of use because several people know I have it and ask if I can check their codes LOL.

That location for the cooler is um, interesting? I wonder if it's maybe to cool the oil for the turbo? Or maybe the trans cooler developed a leak in the radiator so they eliminated it and use that for trans fluid cooling assuming it's a auto? Still I agree, BAD idea. I'd rather mount it at least behind the front fascia.
thesameguy DEC 02, 11:41 PM

quote
Originally posted by Patrick:

This is a little bit off topic... but it's so stupid I had to post it.

I was looking at WRX ads from across the country in Craigslist, and I came across this 2002 WRX with something unusual mounted on the front bumper. I couldn't believe my eyes. It's an aftermarket oil cooler. What a great place to mount an oil cooler... and then have someone back into it while they're parallel parking in front of you. Can you say "no oil pressure"? Wow...




But it looks so good mounted there, right?




It's a nod to Japanese tuners of the '70s.



You may not like it, but I'm sure a lot of people don't like overweight, underpowered midengine domestics. Personally, I like cars. All of them.
Patrick DEC 02, 11:50 PM

quote
Originally posted by Khw:

If you lived around here I'd let you borrow my code reader when checking cars.



South Weber, Utah is a bit further than I expect to go to search out a WRX.

I don't mind buying a suitable device, but it always takes me awhile to make a decision when there are multiple choices... and in the meantime I feel a little unprepared if/when I go to check out a vehicle.

I've sent an email to a fella I know through autocross who I believe has sold his 2002 WRX wagon since I last saw him in August. He might be able to make a suggestion. Heck, he might even have a reader that I can either borrow or buy. We'll see.


quote
Originally posted by Khw:

That location for the cooler is um, interesting? I wonder if it's maybe to cool the oil for the turbo? Or maybe the trans cooler developed a leak in the radiator so they eliminated it and use that for trans fluid cooling assuming it's a auto? Still I agree, BAD idea. I'd rather mount it at least behind the front fascia.



The car has a manual tranny. Wouldn't it be funny if that cooler wasn't even hooked up to anything... might just be for "show". I guess that would actually be more sensible.

[This message has been edited by Patrick (edited 12-03-2015).]