reading codes on 95 taurus; check engine light; higher idle

I have a 95 taurus with a 3.0 v6 in which the check engine light comes on intermittently. i can't say went it comes on. also, my engine seems to idle higher than it used to. is there a way to obtain the code readings without buying a reader. iwent to autozone parts store, where they do it for free, but they only have a reader for the newer cars, a type II reader. i know the light means a problem with emissions parts usually, like an O2 sensor or a map sensor or plug wire, but i'd like to discover the code readings so i can fix it myself. is there a way to get the code readings without paying a mechanic or buying a reader? please email reply to snipped-for-privacy@hotmail.com

Simple OBD 1 (EEC IV) code readers are inexpensive

You may have two different problems:

First look for a vacuum leak, that engine has a plastic vacuum line elbow that tends to crack... it's located approx between the two banks on the left-hand side. replace it with brass one from local H/W store.

The second, we'd need to see codes but I bet it will have to do with EGR or EGR Pressure feedback.

symptoms are light will come on at low to intermediate engine speed, go out once you hit the freeway.

DO NOT replace the EGO based on codes until you come back here with the code.

"Steve W." wrote: