John,

I won't even venture a guess on the problem. But I can answer the code reader question. The cheapest code reader is a trip to AutoZone, or Advance Auto. They will read the codes and give you a print out. They can also reset codes so that you can see new codes as they develop, then you know what the current problems are. Next I have seen references to a Harbor Freight Code Reader for $40, some says it will scan and reset codes, others say it is junk.

Personally I am looking at a computer based scanner such as OBDII Automotive Scan Tool and Virtual Dashboard by Alex Peper. These will not only scan and clear codes, but also let you see all the data the computer sees in real time. I think it is about $125, someone on this board says they bought a used one off of e-bay for $40.

If you get the codes read (especially clear the codes and then get the new ones that reset) and post them here, or search for the codes in the archives you can get a lot of good advice.

Good Luck!



--
'80 242 DL (20 years, 315k miles, retired); '95 855 GLT, (190k miles, suddenly retired by 16 yr old daughter); '99 V70 XC 105k miles and counting . . .