Two stupid Boxster tricks- now check engine is on

[TVC15]

Originally Posted by Perfectlap

OBD II is a small hand held computer that plugs into the Boxster just to the right of the clucth. It will give you a numeric code of the 'Error' message.
THe computer will allow you to remove the error code and the CEL light will turn off.
YOu can have this done at Autozone rather than buying your own reader.
I bought the reader on Ebay for $80 and printed out some of the really scary codes and keep them in the cubby hole next to the reader.

Amazing! I assume the reader comes with something like a booklet that tells you what the numeric code means, right?

[RandallNeighbour]

OBD II = On Board Diagnostic Tool, Version 2

Just as an FYI, you'll also see forum contributions saying "you need to have your mechanic take his PST2 tool and..."

PST2 - Porsche System Tool, Version 2

The difference between the OBD and the PST tools are the OBD is just for diagnosis... it will display codes, etc. and do it in a very generic way as it works for most any car younger than 1997.

The PST tool is a wonderful and expensive tool (like $3k used!) that Porsche dealerships and a few select mechanics have that will not only diagnose problems, but also show all kinds of stuff going on in your engine, with your emissions, your airbag system, etc. It can also clear out error codes your car generates and get rid of that nasty check engine light that bugs us all from time to time... especially those of us who own older boxsters.

[Sunflower1975914]

Okay, wow, thanks. This forum is so helpful, I agree. I stopped by Autozone tonight, and the OBD II read: P0455 - Emissions Control System Leak (Large). The rocket scientist at Autozone said it was a total emissions failure (amusing), but my guess with that code is obviously that my 3rd Stupid Boxster trick was to replace the OEM gas cap with a O-E-Cheap one.

Do you guys agree? If so, should I just order one off eBay and be done with it or get it from the dealer?

Get an OEM gas cap from the dealer...would be a lot faster.