WTF
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Posts like a Corvette
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 1,520
Likes: 0
From: Monticello, Minnesota

sometimes when i just start my car and get on it a little bit....i notice that my SES light comes on....i got one of htem gm code readers from walmart for 20 bucks and it saids its number 12..on the abs thing...it was i think something wiht the abs brakes....but i remember off hand....and its at teh car so i dont hve it...but after like 3 min it will go off....why would hte abs cause this? does nayone know?
On a 92, the ABS can't set a SES light. No ABS codes go through the PCM. Code 12 is the 'handshake code', kinda like the modem sqeal in the old days. It just tells you you're communicating with the PCM. Should flash 12 three times, then any stored codes three times each, then 12 three more times.
Try again, and see if you get anything after the third 12.
Try again, and see if you get anything after the third 12.
I'm betting oil level sensor in the pan, but that'* a shot in the dark. I've seen that on other cars here. If there'* a code, it'll help. If not, you may have to have it scanned for history codes.
Thread Starter
Senior Member
Posts like a Corvette
Joined: Apr 2003
Posts: 1,520
Likes: 0
From: Monticello, Minnesota

well that code reader is a pile of crap...it was 20 bucks from walmart..i plugged it in and the light blinked once then pause then twice and the book said 12...ill grab it tomorrow and tell ya what 12 is the full description....
The 12 isn't a fault code. You can scan for codes in your car with a paper clip. You need the code AFTER the handshake '12' code, if there is one. The Walmart scanner isn't capable of displaying history codes, either. Only current codes. You'll need a scantool for that.
No prob Dave. I want video of you driving over that Walmart tool! Don't tell Jr! He works there!
Just remember.....the scantool is a much better investment, but rather spendy. Plan on it at least eventually. It'll save you money in the long run on a problem like you're having now.
Just remember.....the scantool is a much better investment, but rather spendy. Plan on it at least eventually. It'll save you money in the long run on a problem like you're having now.


