Engine fault codes

[beaner10]

My engine light has came on a few different times over the past few months. It will come on for a week or two then shut off all by itself.
So about 2-3 weeks ago I bought one of the scan/reset tools.
I hook it up and each time i run the fc for the engine codes the only thing that it reads is FE.
So I went ahead and reset the check engine light. The check engine light stayed of for about 2-3 weeks then came back on.
So I hook up the tool again and the same thing happens. I thought maybe switching the order of the tool, so I then plug it in then turn the ignition on (I do not start the car). Same thing.

I have tried several times and the same thing happens the only fault code returned is FE.
I have looked all over and I do not see this FE fault code any where.

A little help please???!!!

BTW: it is on a 1998 328I.

[darkhorse737]

take the scanner back from wher you bought it and just say it is defective. a 1998 model should be able to spell out OBD2 codes... no matter what.

You look at your scanner as a 'translator' - a means by which your car can communicate with humans in a way that we can understand. If it vcannot do that job, then in the simplest of terms... IT IS DEFECTIVE!



... it is either that... OR you haven't followed the accompanying instructions that came with the scanner?

[David Mc]

FE is the hex code - the Decimal code is 254 and it means you have a large leak in your EVAP System. The code is read from the tank pressure sensor, if the fuel cap is sealing properly and wiring to the sensor is okay, the tank may have a leak or it may be the sensor itself.

[golfgod41]

outstanding david...yes it is the hex code...i am glad to see there are a few techs out there that can see that