A lot of the parts stores can pull codes off of newer vehicles for you.Most rigs these days 95' up are obd 2,and unless im mistaken (possible) codes can only be examined with a scan tool. I had a 94 dodge like the method you described, key on,off...But the newer stuff contains "freeze frame" images and things that,while giving technicians more data,make it near impossibe for the do it yourselfer to diagnose their own rigs.If you have a check engine light on,and are trying to narrow it down,call a few of the local part stores and ask if the have a scanner that will work for your truck.