I find this whole subject very confusing

I see that the car already has the ability to allow you to access this data, does that mean that you can also reset some of the warning fault codes like the MIL (no idea what it stands for) and airbag warning lights,

Or do you need one of these IDS things?

I'm asking because my ultimate intention is to use all the Fiesta mechanicals and transplant them into a new glassfibre shell.

I imagine there will be issues with immobiliser and key fob recognition and air-bag lights, although my car may well do without airbags as a lot of the donor vehicles will have deployed their airbags.

In simple terms I'm looking for a device that will allow me to resolve any issues I may come across regarding these highly complicated electronics without ever needing to visit a Ford dealer.

Any advice greatly received thanks

Stuart

Hi Stuart,

From 2001 for petrol vehicles, and 2004 for diesel vehicles the EU established a law which meant that engine (not ABS or airbag I'm afraid) systems had to be accessible by a set of generic means - i.e. same socket, only a certain distance away from the steering wheel, etc.

Has long as you retain the diagnostic socket and the engine ECU you will be fine. We supply products to a number of the teams who prep rally cars and most ECU's are stripped out there too.

Immobiliser and key fob recognition will be a problem with the ECU, but as long as the ECU believes that the key fob is present you will be fine - may need to do some searching through the wiring diagrams for that one!

IDS is not required unless you are looking to access other system, or do programming. ABS, Airbag, etc. can be accessed using a specialist tool such as our MBD3210 (http://www.ukobd.co.uk/gstore/store/g_viewItem.asp?idProduct=63) - hope that this helps!

Gareth

Thanks Gareth,

That makes things a bit clearer for me. I've made a note of the product details.

When I need one I'll be back in touch. I'm bit of a way off at the moment and just gathering imformation I know I'll need to get the job done.

Thanks again
Stuart

I take it then that the interface then needs to be plugged into a PC, so the £199 is the cost of the interface lead and a programme for your PC? or am I getting it all wrong still?

Thanks

Yes, it is the cost of the interface cable and hardware, as well as the software for your PC.

Gareth