Many parts stores like Autozone offer to scan for trouble codes for free but only on 95-96 and later model cars/trucks with the OBD-II systems. Call them to verify if in doubt. They can usually also clear the codes if you need to see if they come back or after doing repairs and can tell you what various codes mean or what to look for in doing repairs.
Sites like OBD-codes,com also have info for various codes and car models.
http://www.obd-codes.com/
Depends where
like where will it be free??