ABS light and T/C light on

[1997PorscheBoxster]

Hi, why is my ABS and Traction control lite going on, but then I may start it up at the end of the day and it goes off?

Is there any way of reseting the ecu in 1997 porsche boxsters. Or, is there anyway of figuring out yourself the code without an scanner?

Thank you very much for your time.

[Loren]

Check for a P0102 fault. P0102 is the same error you will get if the MAF is unplugged. This can also cause ABS and TC/PSM lights to come on as the DME is not sensing the TC/PSM data and combining it with the throttle position and mass air flow readings.

If you are in the US then Autozone (and some other parts stores) will read your codes for free.

[1997PorscheBoxster]

is there any way of reseting the ecu? and autozone will have a scanner and read it for me?

Check for a P0102 fault. P0102 is the same error you will get if the MAF is unplugged. This can also cause ABS and TC/PSM lights to come on as the DME is not sensing the TC/PSM data and combining it with the throttle position and mass air flow readings.

If you are in the US then Autozone (and some other parts stores) will read your codes for free.

[Loren]

You can disconnect the battery for about 5 minutes. Be sure you have your radio code first.

The DME will then need to re-learn it's conditions - so the car may run rough for the next 5 miles or so.

[1997PorscheBoxster]

Sorry, Im new

what is a DME, will my manual have my radio code, or is it ok if I just detach the faceplate thing?

Also, when I detach the battery, if I touch neg and pos ends is that ok, or terribly bad?

Will it harm anything if I disconnect the battery, or will any lights go on?

thanks a lot for your time.

You can disconnect the battery for about 5 minutes. Be sure you have your radio code first.

The DME will then need to re-learn it's conditions - so the car may run rough for the next 5 miles or so.

[wvicary]

I'm not trying to be rude or anything but it might be best if you took your car in to the dealer or a good independent repair garage. You sound rather inexperienced with cars and though it's good to learn DIY repairs, trouble shooting and such can go wrong very quickly. Your question about if you touch the pos or neg battery post has me alittle concerned.

Try and get the codes pulled and post your results. There are many knowledgable people on this forum and I'm sure they can guide you in the right direction.

[Paul Fraser]

I agree with the above but to answer some of your questions (hopefully accurately):

what is a DME: engine electronics.

will my manual have my radio code: if it is a Becker or Porsche unit no, unless someone has put the credit card size code card (that should have come along with your manual) in a supplied adhesive pocket at the back of the manual (unusual). Or someone may have written the number in the back. The code can be obtained here (from someone if you are lucky, there is unlocking software about, although mine is a bit hit and miss) or at an OPC ($). If you need to do this then you will need the serial number on the unit.

Will it harm anything if I disconnect the battery, or will any lights go on: No, however, when you reattach the battery the alarm/horn will go off unless you have the ignition switch at position 1, or at least that is what happens with UK cars.

Good luck with it, and if you are stuck in the future come here. There are a lot of very smart and helpful people here who have helped me lots in the past.

Edited July 28, 2006 by Paul Fraser

[Loren]

what is a DME

our Glossary entry for DME