Hey everyone, I’m having issues reading codes on my 2000 Ford F-250 Super Duty. I’m using a standard Actron CP 9125 scanner, but it’s not pulling any codes, even when I manually trigger one by unplugging the ICP sensor. When I scan, it says zero codes.
Could this be an issue with my scanner? A fuse issue (both PCM fuses are fine)? Or something else entirely? Any guidance from fellow 7.3 enthusiasts would be much appreciated! Much love 
Good troubleshooting on your part! Unfortunately, the 7.3s don’t use a standard protocol that most consumer scan tools can read. FORScan with a compatible dongle (OBD to USB/Bluetooth) would work. FORScan also has an app for your phone or a software version for a laptop. Check out FORScan here.
Another option is the AutoEnginuity scanner, which is more expensive but offers more options. If you work with multiple 7.3s or are in a diesel shop, it might be worth it. The professional, large tablet-style scan tools are also available but pricey.
Hope that helps!
@Brook
Thanks! Your explanation was super helpful. I’d give you an award, but my budget is tight right now 
Kim said:
@Brook
Thanks! Your explanation was super helpful. I’d give you an award, but my budget is tight right now
I had the same issue recently. My 2000 7.3 was running rough, idle was all over, and I couldn’t pull codes at O’Reilly’s either. Ended up getting a vLinker FD from Amazon for $34 and FORScan Lite for $7. It pulled a PCM code for a bad ICP sensor, and 20 minutes later, everything was running great. Wish I’d tried FORScan sooner—it’s well worth it.
Consider getting a Banks programmer—it’s cheaper, can pull codes, clear codes, and add safe tunes for economy or towing on the 7.3.
Koa said:
Consider getting a Banks programmer—it’s cheaper, can pull codes, clear codes, and add safe tunes for economy or towing on the 7.3.
Could you drop a link? Thanks for the tip!
Koa said:
@Kim
Just go to Banks.com. I’m in my 50s, so no link handy, but it should be easy to find.
Thanks for the info!
Koa said:
@Kim
Just go to Banks.com. I’m in my 50s, so no link handy, but it should be easy to find.
Thanks for the info!
No problem, welcome to the 7.3 cult!
A regular scan tool won’t give you the detail you need. I use the MX+ reader ($150 on Amazon) and pair it with the FORScan Lite app via Bluetooth on my iPhone. It’s excellent for running injector buzz tests, cylinder contribution tests, IPR/IPC values, and other diagnostics. You can also get real-time data and run various KOEO/KOER tests for more specific issues.
Cheap scanners don’t always read everything. Try borrowing a higher-quality one if you can.
7.3s aren’t compatible with standard OBDII tools. FORScan works great, but I use a Launch X431 now. If it’s been modified or tuned, I sometimes have to manually adjust, but I can still pull the info I need.
If you just need a code reader, Autel makes some models that work with Ford diesels. They’ll pull codes on a 7.3 but won’t show live data unless you get a higher-end model. Cheaper scanners usually lack the protocols for 7.3s. Another option is to use FORScan with a laptop and an adapter cable from Amazon.
V-Linker FS OBD2 + Laptop + FORScan is a good combo.
