On-board diagnostics for Magentis 2.4L

[MagentisMike]

Newbie to this forum and had a couple of questions:

Wondering if anyone knows how to read the OBD without a reader? Had a '94 escort and was able to read the codes by a series of turning the ignition on/off with the car in neutral and the lights turned on or some such weird combination. Anyway, CEL came on this morning on the way in to work and would like to find out what's up without having to take it in to the garage. Thanks!

While I'm here, anyone have any tips on improving fuel economy? Getting about 540km to a tank in my '04 Magentis 2.4L 4cyl. This is a real beast on gas as I was getting better mileage out of my '89 2.5L turbo Sundance. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[canakia]

Dont think it can be done without a reader. On older models with OBD I this was possible but then a switch/upgrade was made to OBD II. You can probably go to your nearest partsource dealer (or similar) and they will retrieve the code for you for free.

[joebunda]

Basic suggestions for fuel mileage:
- make sure tires are inflated properly
- change spark plugs at recommended service interval
- replace plug wires if they are worn/cracked
- replace air filter (lots of discussion about K&N filters, but I am a believer)
- ease up on the accelerator