On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) engine codes are, one way your vehicle communicates with a you.
So, every car built since 1996, has an (OBD) computer system, that monitors and identifies issues.
In particular, it looks for issues that may result in, harmful and polluting emissions, from exhaust gases.
When this system identifies an issue, it turns on the check engine light and records (OBD) engine codes.
(OBD) engine codes are then accessed by, plugging a code reader, into the vehicle’s (OBD) port. These codes can provide you with, up to date information, about the system. Also, the conditions under which, the issue was first identified.
However, they can’t provide a clear-cut solution, to the actual cause of the problem, only clues for where to look.
So, is your check engine light on? Are you wondering what it means? Your car knows, and it stores, comprehensive information on what’s wrong; in the form of trouble engine codes. Since 1996, all cars sold in North America, have used a common (OBD) system. It alerts drivers that there’s a problem, using (the Check Engine light). But, also stores trouble codes; that help car owners and service technicians to pinpoint, exactly where to look.
In addition, standard or generic fault codes (DTC), are a list of engine codes, common to all manufacturers. Consequently, there is an endless list of, diagnostic devices, that are used to read and decode them.
Early versions of (OBD) would simply, illuminate a malfunction indicator light (MIL). But, it would not provide any information, about the problem. However, modern (OBD) systems, use a standardized digital communications port, to provide real-time data.
Diagnostic codes are vital to understanding, when your vehicle has an issue, long before complete failure. The challenge is that, even if it tells you which system has an issue, it won’t tell you why.
Choose Your Engine Codes Help Topic Below
Abbreviations And Acronyms For Automotive Reference Help
OBD-I-First Generation OBD – Focused On The Emission Control Systems
OBD-II Stands For Second Generation On-Board Diagnostics Codes
Check Engine Light (CEL) – What Can Cause It To Come On
Dash Warning Lights – Only Provide A Warning Something Is Wrong
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