98 Camry: E1<--->TE1 ... no effect

[jopki]

Hello,
I am looking for an old but "newer" Camry to replace my mortally ill 93: I went to a used car lot, tried out an 98 Camry - it drove surprisingly well but I noticed a CEL ON. So I asked the seller if I can check the codes. He agreed so I connected E1 and TE1 pins as I normally do on my 93 Camry and Corolla. No effect, I made sure that the contact is made properly but nothing. Light stayed ON, when I started the engine, it continued to be ON.

I know that the 96+ vehicles have an OBDII. Does it mean that have to use OBDII reader and that I can no longer read codes using the paperclip method (E1<-->TE1) on the diagnostic connector? Or - is this behaviour rather suspicious?

Thanks for any insight.
JE

... thx for spotting my "88" typo

[bigbird]

im assuming you mean 98 camry? the easiest way to check codes is just to use an obII reader. any auto parts store has and will let you use them for free. however, im pretty sure you can still check the codes manualy. just not exactly sure how. try a quick search for the subject and see if anythign turns up...or wait for another reply.

[chronoti]

nope you have to use the scanner i think canadian tire checks the codes for free, i cant remember haven't been in the gta in 3 years

unless it is a 88 and not working there a second port under the dash by the driver kick panel or where the coin holder is on your gen 3