You can get the codes off SP's without the service terminal. Just power up and push the left toggle on dash once and it will bring up most recent code. then push right and each time you push right it will go back in order to the oldest code. Up to 15 codes stored. The only thing you need the service terminal for is clearing fault codes, advanced set ups/truck options and calibrations.

The violet "slam" when attempting to plug is most commonly not an electrical issue. Most likely a blown upper steer bearing. With the slop in the bearing the drive unit will slightly tip when changing direction and cause the motor armature to hit the stator and lock up. If this is not corrected it will eventually destroy the motor. The bearing is pretty cheap and not to technical to replace, just somewhat labor intensive if you have not done one (or a few) and figured out the shortcuts and tricks to save time/labor.