FACT SHEET

Publication Number: FS 08-13

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) For Vehicles – September 2014

What is OBD and how does it
work?
On-Board Diagnostic systems (OBD) were
developed in the 1980s to help techni-
cians diagnose and service the computer-
ized engine systems of modern vehicles.
A new generation of these systems is
found in 1996 model and newer vehicles.
These new systems, regardless of the
type of vehicles, now monitor the same
components, use the same computer
“language” and have the same criteria for
evaluating the systems and for indicating
the problems to the driver and the repair
technician. Arrow points to OBD connector under dashboard.
The OBD system provides drivers with an the vehicle exhaust to determine if the ance, it will (over a period of time) turn the
early warning of malfunctions through vehicle is running efficiently, OBD looks lamp off. This does not indicate a problem
a dashboard “Check Engine” light (also for broken or malfunctioning components with the OBD system. Your repair techni-
known as a Malfunction Indicator Light which are causing or will cause emissions cian can perform a specific test to deter-
or MIL). This early warning light not only failure if not repaired. OBD often identifies mine if the system is working properly.
helps protect the environment, and helps failing components long before tailpipe
consumers, by identifying minor problems emissions would fail. This, in turn, often al- Can the “Check Engine” light be
before they become major repair bills. lows for repair at a much lower cost than a turned off?
malfunctioning component that damages
How does ADEQ use OBD? When the engine service is performed,
the engine or catalytic converter.
the technician will turn off the “Check
When it is time for a vehicle equipped
How does the driver know if Engine” light. There are also situations
with OBD to be tested for emissions, the
when the vehicle computer will turn off
technician at the test facility simply con- there is a problem?
the light. If the OBD system scans the
nects a cable or remote wireless connec-
When the OBD system determines that a component three consecutive times or
tion to the vehicle’s computer connector.
problem exists, a corresponding “Di- more, and no longer detects the problem,
The vehicle connector is usually found
agnostic Trouble Code” is stored in the the light will turn off automatically. For
under the dash and is known as the DLC
computer memory. The computer also example, if the gas cap is not properly
(Diagnostic Link Connector). Information
illuminates the dashboard “Check Engine” tightened, the light may go on. If sub-
stored in the vehicle computer is report-
light, informing the driver that a problem sequent fueling causes the cap to be
ed to the emissions-test computer and
exists, and that service is needed. If the properly tightened, the light will go out
analyzed. The process is very quick and
light is flashing, the problem is serious in a few days.
the report can be given to the technician
and needs immediate attention.
if necessary to help repair the vehicle.
What does “Not Ready” mean?
Why does OBD testing replace What if the MIL light comes on
and then goes off? Your vehicle’s computer reviews the
tailpipe testing on newer vehicles?
status of the emissions systems within
The OBD II system is required in 1996 and As the OBD system checks components, the vehicle. After most repairs, or if the
newer vehicles by federal law. The system it may encounter a system or component battery is disconnected or replaced, the
consists of computer(s) and sensors built that is out of tolerance. If this happens, the status of all systems will be “not ready”
into the vehicle to monitor emission MIL light will be illuminated. If the OBD until the vehicle is operated long enough
systems. While the tailpipe test looks at system later finds the system to be in toler- to reset the monitors. The vehicle should
 FACT SHEET
be operated after service for as long as When the MIL light is disconnected, the Where can I get more
a week in order to reset the status to vehicle cannot pass emissions testing, is information?
“Ready.” If too many status monitors are no longer protected by warranty, and is
“Not Ready” a vehicle will be rejected in violation of state and federal laws. Go to: www.myazcar.com for more in-
from the test. formation, to find an inspection station,
Who can perform OBD repairs? repair facility, test fees, exemptions and
Is the OBD repair covered by much more.
warranty? Anyone may do the repairs necessary
for OBD emissions failures. However, it ADEQ has an On-Board Diagnostics
Warranty coverage varies, depending is necessary to have a diagnostic tool (OBD) informational brochure and an
on the specific failure. However, the known as a “Scan Tool” to properly query On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) Readiness
federal Clean Air Act requires that major the onboard computer and to verify that Monitors fact sheet that are also avail-
emissions control components such as the repairs have been successful and able. They can be found on the ADEQ
the catalytic converter be warranted for the monitors reset. We suggest that only Web site www.azdeq.gov, click on the
eight years or 80,000 miles and most a qualified repair technician equipped heading “Brochures & Fact Sheets.”
emissions-control components are with the necessary scan tool and train- For vehicle specific information, or for
covered for at least two years or 24,000 ing perform emission related repairs on information not covered in the above
miles. Consult your warranty or dealer. OBD-equipped vehicles. resources you may contact Vehicle
What if the “Check Engine” Do repairs cost more because Emissions Inspection Program staff in
Phoenix at 10210 N 23rd Avenue, (602)
light is disconnected? of OBD? 944-0383 or 4949 E. Madison Street,
Some people mistakenly disconnect the Because OBD serves as an early warning (602) 275-1144 or in Tucson at 3931 N.
“Check Engine” light since they cannot system for the vehicle owner, repairs Business Center Drive, (520) 887-5191.
detect any problems with vehicle opera- often cost less than engine repair or a
tion. The light is provided to alert drivers new catalytic converter.
to potential component failure. Proper
repair will save both time and money Quite often repairs due to the “Check
and reduce the chance of emissions-test Engine” light are limited to service or re-
failure. The OBD system is required on placement of an individual component.
all 1996 and newer light-duty vehicles.