I just changed intake gaskets on my 2004 grand prix. When it failed to start and i didnt have a diagnostic reader i read how to jump the two terminals and read the codes that way. My engine light did not blink but my doorbell ringer beeped 5/6 times for an open door, then it beeped twice, twice. Does this indicate error code 22? (Throttle position sensor)

In this case, the doorbell ringer was beeping out a signal to tell you to stop what you were doing before you seriously mess something up. The trick for reading error codes only works on OBD1 vehicles, yours is OBD2. For goodness sake man, stop sticking stuff into your diagnostic port. Go to Autozone or almost any other parts store and they will read codes for free.

I, um. Yeah..

Being that i CANT take the car to autozone or any other parts store (i did mention that it does not run) plus the fact that two websites and my SAE certified mechanic friend said to do this i felt safe in doing so. Thank you for your input but i was looking for a constructive reply instead of an insult. But thank you

My constructive response was to tell you to stop sticking stuff in the diagnostic port. Your two websites and certified mechanic are not correct, the procedure only works with OBD1 vehicles, which is pre 1994.


See if your parts store will rent you a scanner. They call it rent, but will generally return your deposit when you return the equipment, which means it won't cost you anything. Was that constructive?


Please describe what happens when it won't start. Does the engine turn over with the starter, does it start to catch at all? Best to check for spark and fuel pressure. My guess is you didn't plug something in and aren't getting spark.

I called three parts stores and not one will rent a scanner. Autozone doesnt even do them at all anymore. I checked the websites again and found three more sites that said specifically one can check OBD2 cars with a paper clip jumping two ports the check engine light will blink out the code. Im not trying to start an arguement and im not suggesting anyone do this nor am i saying that due to information youve recieved that your not trying to help, but apperantly its a way to check one when your in a bind. Im going to look again to find unconnected wires and spark. There is fuel on the plug so i know its getting fuel. Thanks for constructive suggestions on where to go from here

Could you please provide the link that shows the paperclip test?

Ehow.com is one. I cant remember the others specifically but if you google 'getting error codes on obd2 cars without a reader' it will provide a long list.

Cut and pasted from ehow.com:

"GM trouble codes may be retrieved with or without a code scanner on pre-1993 GM vehicles, due to the type of OBD port connector. This port has been changed in the later model vehicles, and a scan tool is necessary to retrieve the codes".

If you want to read it yourself, here is the link:
How to get GM Trouble Code | eHow

As I said in an earlier post, you cannot use the paper clip on your 2004 Grand Prix. If you are into mechanical work to the extent you can change the intake manifold gasket, you should invest in a code reader, or possibly even a scanner. You can get a basic code reader that will read and clear codes for around $30 on Ebay. Scanners start at around $100 for a decent one. Its a basic tool that should be in any DIY tool box.

Did not see a long list, most things in the list only mention OBD, which would be pre-OBD 2, only seen one actual link that said you could get info without a scanner, and it did not involve using a paper clip, it was a Dodge 2006 grand caravan, and if you cycled the key on to off 3x you'd get the code(*) displayed on the speedo/console...
Not trying to criticize you at all, but for your cars sake read things thoroughly before trying to attempt them.
To get the code stored in there you will need a scan tool without a doubt!