I think I found the ALDL terminal to do the self diagnosis, but does the car need to be running? Off? Where will a code be displayed and how do I read it? The Haynes manual doesn`t mention any of these answers.

 

Your lucky I have a book with me.
If you look under the dash, on either side of the steering wheel, their is a 12 pin connector. It may have a cover over it. If you jump the connections top 2 connections on the far right.
1-2-3-4-5-6
7-8-9-10-11-12
5/6
I always jump this then turn the key to run, just short of start, do not start the car.
The Haynes manual says it right next to the steering colum.
When you turn the key forward it should flash, once- long pause then twice kinda close together. Code 12. It will do that 3 times. That is good that means it is in diagnostic mode.
Anything after that is your trouble code. Flash short pause flash long pause flash = code 21.
I hope that made sense.
Once you have your code/codes you can call Auto-Zone or Advance Auto Parts and ask them what it is, they should be able to tell you. Or you can get a haynes manual and it has all of them in it. You can get a Chiltons but I think they are harder to understand if you don't know very much about car.
Good Luck.

 

ok I did it and got code 33....which is to do with the MAP sensor. I actually just replaced it yesterday to try and fix the problem I`m having (the car dies when I stop at red lights etc....just chokes and stalls out). 2 people here said it should be the MAP so I replaced it, yesterday but the prblem persists today. We cleared the computer of codes, and drove it again, retested, and now no code gets stored. Any idea what else could be the problem?

 

i should have been more clear. A day later after replacing the MAP all was working again, guess it took time to adjust.