Ignition initiated error code read-back on '02 B1500?

[Zorlock]

The Check engine light came on in my '02 B1500 this morning.

In my 96 Dakota, I could cycle the ignition on and off three times, and then on again, count the flashes and get the error codes that way.

I figured I could do the same with the van, so I tried, nothing. Can this method still be used to check codes on the '02? If so, has the configuration/steps involved changed? And what is it if so.

Thanks in advance for any light that can be shed on this subject.

Dom

[alloro]

It works, but instead of flashing the CEL it displays the codes on the digital odometer. The odometer has to be set to display the total vehicle mileage, not the trip mileage.

[Zorlock]

thank you Alloro,

It probably displayed at least 4 times today, I just never looked over there. I was always fixated on that little 'engine' light.

So, the code was P0442

P0442 - Evaporative Emission (EVAP) System Small Leak Detected (often this is a loose or bad gas cap!)

So, I took off the gas cap and replaced it tightly, guess I'll see what happens next time I drive it.

[Zorlock]

Ok, an additional question. I've removed the gas cap and replaced it tightly. It was misthreaded previously.

My question is; If the problem was resolved, will the light go off on it's own, or does it have to be reset somehow to make it go off? If it needs resetting to make it go off, how would I do that, short of disconnecting the battery?

[alloro]

You need a code reader to clear the codes or you need to disconnect the battery. However, I believe after two or three drives, the code will clear on it's own if the problem was solved. If the cap was damaged it might need to be replaced before the code will go away. I'd wait it out for a couple of days and see if the CEL goes off.