OBD-2 for 1997 Chevy Astro

[adopted]

Hi,
The Check Engine light came on for awhile (gone now).
With a previous vehicle, I was able to find out the code that triggered the light by turning the ignition a certain way and watching the indicator lights.
I saw something about using a paper clip with an Astro and counting the flashes of the indicator lights.
Is it possible to do this with a '97 Astro?
I live in Canada, and we don't have an "Autozone" to visit to find out the code(s) for free.
I hardly feel like paying $120 for a OBD-II reader device when there's just this one event, and the light has gone out anyway.
Feeling Dutch, I'd prefer a cheap/free method of obtaining the code, but maybe that just isn't practical?
Thanks,
Paul

[Smiliesafari]

OBD II requires a reader.

[MountainManJoe]

If you live in Canada, then you might have a Princess Auto nearby. Scanners go on sale for $70 sometimes.

http://www.princessauto.com/pal/product ... ode-Reader

If the light went out, the code could be gone. Maybe just a misfire. Have you done a tune-up lately?

[adopted]

hey Smiliesafari and timelessbeing,
thanks a lot for your answers.
paul

[justice]

i don't know where you are located, but here in Houston local auto parts stores will scan codes for you for free.