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OBD-II - On-Board Diagnostic System 

www.obdii.com

 

 

 

 

Dedicated to

helping the home and

independent technician

understand and use OBD-II technology

OBD-II Background

Does my car have OBD-II?

OBD-II Trouble Codes

OBD-II Acronyms and Jargon

General Motors OBD-II Driving Cycle

Ford Motor OBD-II Driving Cycle

 

AutoTap OBD-II Diagnostic Scanner

 

Automotive Reference Books

OBD-II Discussion Forum

Scan Tool Shopping Tips

OBD-II Links

 

 

OBD-II Technical Library

  
 
  

SENSOR GUIDE

 is an illustrated reference guide to all onboard vehicle sensors. Each 

type of sensor is fully covered including how it works, typical applications, outputs, 
diagnosis, testing and sample waveforms. 

More Information

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OBD-II - On-Board Diagnostic System 

We invite your suggestions and contributions.

 

Notice: The maintainers of the OBD-II Home Page provide this forum as a public service. In no 
manner do we encourage disruption of the functions of the On-Board Diagnostic systems of any 
vehicle to be used on the highways of our nation. If you are in any doubt as to your ability to work 
within the framework of current EPA regulations, we urge you to have a qualified technician handle 
your vehicle analysis and repairs.

© 2006 B&B Electronics

The OBD-II Home Page is hosted by

 

 

http://www.autotap.com

For information on AutoTap, please call (815) 433 - 5100 or visit www.autotap.com

 

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OBD-II Background Information 

 

OBD-II Background

What is OBD-II?

Where'd it come from?

Why do we need it?

Does my car have OBD-II?

How do we measure OBD-II output?

What good does it do to measure OBD-II output?

Tell me about that "Check Engine Light".

OBD-II and your car's health

Proprietary Sensor Readings

OBD-II and performance tuning

 

What is OBD-II?

On-Board Diagnostic systems are in most cars and light trucks on the road today. During the '70s and 
early 1980's manufacturers started using electronic means to control engine functions and diagnose 
engine problems. This was primarily to meet EPA emission standards. Through the years on-board 
diagnostic systems have become more sophisticated. OBD-II, a new standard introduced in the mid-'90s, 
provides almost complete engine control and also monitors parts of the chassis, body and accessory 
devices, as well as the diagnostic control network of the car.

[Back to top]

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OBD-II Background Information 

Where'd it come from?

To combat its smog problem in the LA basin, the State of California started requiring emission control 
systems on 1966 model cars. The federal government extended these controls nationwide in 1968.

Congress passed the Clean Air Act in 1970 and established the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). 
This started a series of graduated emission standards and requirements for maintenance of vehicles for 
extended periods of time. To meet these standards, manufacturers turned to electronically controlled fuel 
feed and ignition systems. Sensors measured engine performance and adjusted the systems to provide 
minimum pollution. These sensors were also accessed to provide early diagnostic assistance. 

At first there were few standards and each manufacturer had their own systems and signals. In 1988, the 
Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) set a standard connector plug and set of diagnostic test signals. 
The EPA adapted most of their standards from the SAE on-board diagnostic programs and 
recommendations. OBD-II is an expanded set of standards and practices developed by SAE and adopted 
by the EPA and CARB (California Air Resources Board) for implementation by January 1, 1996.

[Back to top]

Why do we need it?

The Environmental Protection Agency has been charged with reducing "mobile emissions" from cars and 
trucks and given the power to require manufacturers to build cars which meet increasingly stiff emissions 
standards. The manufacturers must further maintain the emission standards of the cars for the useful life 
of the vehicle. OBD-II provides a universal inspection and diagnosis method to be sure the car is 
performing to OEM standards. While there is argument as to the exact standards and methodology 
employed, the fact is there is a need to reduce vehicle emitted pollution levels in our cities, and we have to 
live with these requirements.

[Back to top]

Does my car have OBD-II?

All cars built since January 1, 1996 have OBD-II systems. Manufacturers started incorporating OBD-II in 
various models as early as 1994. Some early OBD-II cars were not 100% compliant. 

<Click here>

 to see 

the dates OBD-II started being included on specific makes and models. 

There are three basic OBD-II protocols in use, each with minor variations on the communication pattern 
between the on-board diagnostic computer and the scanner console or tool. While there have been some 
manufacturer changes between protocols in the past few years, as a rule of thumb, Chrysler products and 
all European and most Asian imports use ISO 9141 circuitry. GM cars and light trucks use SAE J1850 
VPW (Variable Pulse Width Modulation), and Fords use SAE J1850 PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) 
communication patterns. 

<Click here>

 to see which cars use each system.

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OBD-II Background Information 

You may also tell which protocol is used on a specific automobile by examining the connector socket 
carefully. If the dash connector has a pin in the #7 position and no pin at #2 or #10, then the car has the 
ISO 9141 protocol. If no pin is present in the #7 position, the car uses an SAE protocol. If there are pins in 
positions #7 and #2 and/or #10, the car may use the ISO protocol. 

While there are three OBD-II electrical connection protocols, the command set is fixed according to the 
SAE J1979 standard.

[Back to top]

How do we measure OBD-II output?

Pre-OBD-II cars had connectors in various positions under the dashboard and under the hood. All OBD-II 
cars have a connector located in the passenger compartment easily accessible from the driver's seat. 
Check under the dash or behind or near the ashtray. A cable is plugged into the OBD-II J1962 connector 
and connected to AutoTap or another scan tool. AutoTap is available in PC/laptop or a Palm PDA 
versions. Other scantools on the market range from simple hand-held meters that display trouble codes, 
up to a large console computer-based unit costing thousands of dollars.

[Back to top]

What good does it do to measure OBD-II output?

OBD-II signals are most often sought in response to a "Check Engine Light" appearing on the dashboard 
or driveability problems experienced with the vehicle. The data provided by OBD-II can often pinpoint the 
specific component that has malfunctioned, saving substantial time and cost compared to guess-and-
replace repairs. Scanning OBD-II signals can also provide valuable information on the condition of a used 
car purchase.

[Back to top]

Tell me about that "Check Engine Light".

The service industry calls the Check Engine light on your dash an "MIL" or Malfunction Indicator Light. It 
shows three different types of signals. Occasional flashes show momentary malfunctions. It stays on if the 
problem is of a more serious nature, affecting the emissions output or safety of the vehicle. A constantly 
flashing MIL is a sign of a major problem which can cause serious damage if the engine is not stopped 
immediately. In all cases a "freeze frame" of all sensor readings at the time is recorded in the central 
computer of the vehicle. 

Hard failure signals caused by serious problems will cause the MIL to stay on any time the car is running 
until the problem is repaired and the MIL reset. Intermittent failures cause the MIL to light momentarily and 
they often go out before the problem is located. The freeze frame of the car's condition captured in the 
computer at the time of the malfunction can be very valuable in diagnosing these intermittent problems. 
However, in some cases if the car completes three driving cycles without a re-occurrence of the problem, 
the freeze frame will be erased.

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OBD-II Background Information 

[Back to top]

OBD-II and your car's health

Because of their investment in the equipment required, most repair shops charge a fee, some-times 
substantial, to attach the scanning equipment and diagnose problems using the OBD-II system signals. 
Home mechanics and small shop technicians have been restricted from working with these signals by the 
cost and technical complexity of the equipment. With the introduction of more economical and user 
friendly scanning devices, it is now practical for almost anyone to access OBD-II signals and use them for 
their own testing and repairs.

Scanners vary greatly in their complexity. The best connect easily and use software to quickly and 
automatically call up the OBD-II information. They should have recording ability so that data can be 
collected during a test drive without distracting the technician driving the car. A system connecting to a 
laptop or desk top computer provides expanded memory for data and the ability to export data to a 
spreadsheet or graphing utility.

[Back to top]

Proprietary Sensor Readings

 

 

Though not part of the EPA's OBD II standard, the diagnostic read-outs used by dealership technicians 
are also read through the OBD II connector. These service codes show you such things as knock sensor 
operation, FI pulse width, ignition voltage, individual cylinder misfires, transmission shift points and ABS 
brake condition.  There can be over 300 readings available, depending on the vehicle manufacturer and 
model. Vehicles vary in the readings they will support. Scanners vary widely in the number of these 
signals that they can read.  Some show just the basic OBD or OBD II signals, others show the full range of 
service codes.

[Back to top]

OBD-II and performance tuning

While the vast number of drivers want nothing more than dependable, economical transportation, many of 
us are looking to OBD-II for extra performance. Earlier on-board computer systems had chips that could 
be replaced to adjust engine parameters for extra speed and power. While the OBD-II systems are sealed 
and do not allow chip replacement, they do provide a real time data acquisition system that is useful to 
tuners.

Power loaders can actually reprogram the performance parameters of the OBD-II system to accommodate 
performance options. At the current time the number of models they can service is limited, but the range is 
being extended. Be sure the person doing your reprogramming keeps the car in compliance with EPA 
emission standards. As aftermarket manufacturers develop additional solutions, we will add their 
information to our links.

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OBD-II Background Information 

[Back to top]

For information on the AutoTap PC and PDA-based OBDII scan tool, visit 

www.

autotap.com

.

 

[ OBD-II Home ]

 

© 2006 B&B Electronics

The OBD-II Home Page is hosted by

 

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OBDII - On-Board Diagnostic's System - Does My Car Have OBD-II? The Connector and Communications.

 

Does My Car Have OBD-II?

All cars and light trucks built and sold in the United States after January 1, 1996 were required to be OBD 
II equipped. In general, this means all 1996 model year cars and light trucks are compliant, even if built in 
late 1995.

Two factors will show if your vehicle is definitely OBD II equipped: 
1) There will be an OBD II connector as shown below, and 
2) There will be a note on a sticker or nameplate under the hood: "OBD II compliant".

The Connector

Pin 2 - J1850 Bus+ 
Pin 4 - Chassis Ground 
Pin 5 - Signal Ground 
Pin 6 - CAN High (J-2284) 
Pin 7 - ISO 9141-2 K Line 
Pin 10 - J1850 Bus 
Pin 14 - CAN Low (J-2284) 
Pin 15 - ISO 9141-2 L Line 
Pin 16 - Battery Power

Where is the connector located?

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OBDII - On-Board Diagnostic's System - Does My Car Have OBD-II? The Connector and Communications.

The connector must be located within three feet of the driver and must not require any tools to be 
revealed. Look under the dash and behind ashtrays.

The Three Flavors of OBD II

While the parameters, or readings, required by OBD II regulations are uniform, the auto manufacturers 
had some latitude in the communications protocol they used to transmit those readings to scanners. 
Naturally, each felt they had the one true way, so we have three different OBD II communications 
protocols in use.

The big scanner consoles costing thousands of dollars include the decoding software and firmware for all 
three protocols in their units, making them universal. Less expensive units, for home or small shop use, 
are usually customized for a specific communications protocol. Be sure the scanner you are using suits 
the protocol of your car.

What Communications Protocol does my vehicle use?

As a rule of thumb, GM cars and light trucks use SAE J1850 VPW (Variable Pulse Width Modulation). 
Chrysler products and all European and most Asian imports use ISO 9141 circuitry. Fords use SAE J1850 
PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) communication patterns.

There are some variations among captive imports such as the Cadillac Catera, a German Opel derivative, 
which uses the European ISO 9141 protocol. If you have first hand knowledge of other such variations, 
please 

send them in

 and, together, we can build a more complete listing.

On 1996 and later vehicles, you can tell which protocol is used by examining the OBD II connector:

J1850 VPW--The connector should have metallic contacts in pins 2, 4, 5, and 16, but not 10. 
ISO 9141-2--The connector should have metallic contacts in pins 4, 5, 7, 15, and 16. 
J1850 PWM--The connector should have metallic contacts in pins 2, 4, 5, 10, and 16.

If your vehicle has this style connector, but doesn't have these pins populated, you probably have a pre-
OBDII vehicle. To add some confusion, even having the connector with the contacts shown above is not a 
guarantee of OBD II compliance. This style connector has been seen on some pre-1996 vehicles which 
were not OBD II compliant.

Information on Pre-96 Cars

A reader with the California Air Resouces Board provided this list of pre-96 OBD II engine 
designations. Note that CARB recognizes engine series, rather than vehicle models, so the engine 
designations are the true key, with the vehicle models provided as a courtesy.

California Air Resources Board List of  
Certified OBD II Complying Engine Families and Models

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OBDII - On-Board Diagnostic's System - Does My Car Have OBD-II? The Connector and Communications.

Engine Family

Manufacturer

Model(s)

Fully Compliant?

1994 Model Year Certifications
RAD2.8V8GFEM 
RFM3.8V8G1EK 
RFM4.6V8G1EK 
RMB2.2VJGCEK 
RMB3.2VJGCEK 
RNS2.0VJGDEK 
RTY3.0VJGFEK 
RTY2.7HGEEK 
RTY2.42HGEEK 
RVW2.8V8GFHM 
RVV2.3VHGFEK

Audi 
Ford 
Ford 
Mercedes-Benz 
Mercedes-Benz 
Nissan 
Toyota 
Toyota 
Toyota 
Volkswagen 
Volvo

100 
Mustang 
T-Bird, Cougar 
C220 
C 280, S 320, SL 320 
G20 
Camry, ES300 
T100 
Previa, Previa All-Trac 
Corrado 
850 Turbo

No 
No 
No 
No 
No 
Yes 
No 
No 
No 
No 
No

1995 Model Year Certifications
SBM5.4V8GAEK 
SCR2.0VJGFEK 
SCR122VJG2EK 
SCR2.0VJG2GK 
SCR2.0VJGFEL 
SDS2.0VJGFEK 
 
 
SFM3.828G1EK 
SFM3.8V8G1EK 
SFM4.6V8G1EK 
SFM4.6V8G1GK 
 
SFM2.318G1EK 
SFM3.028G1EK 
SFM3.018G1EK 
SFM3.028G1FK 
SFM4.018G1EK 
SFM4.6VJG1EK 
SFM4.028G1EK 
S1G3.8V8G1EK 
S3G4.319GFEJ 
S3G4.329GFGJ 
SIG2.3VJG2GK 
SHN2.7VJG1EK 
SHN2.7VJGFEK 
SHN2.5VJGKEK 
SHN3.0VJGKEK 
SJC4.0VJGAEK 
SJC6.0V8GFFK 
SJC4.0VJGFEK 
SKM1.8VJG1EK 

BMW 
Chrysler 
Chrysler 
Chrysler 
Chrysler 
Diamond Star 
 
 
Ford 
Ford 
Ford 
Ford 
 
Ford 
Ford 
Ford 
Ford 
Ford 
Ford 
Ford 
GM 
GM 
GM 
GMC 
Honda 
Honda 
Honda 
Honda 
Jaguar 
Jaguar 
Jaguar 
KIA 

750cl(V12), 850ci(V12) 
Dodge Neon, Plymouth Neon 
Dodge Neon, Plymouth Neon 
Dodge Neon, Plymouth Neon 
Dodge Neon, Plymouth Neon 
Eagle Talon, Mitsubishi 
Eclipse, Chrysler Sebring, 
Dodge Avenger 
Windstar 
Mustang 
T-Bird, Cougar 
Grand Marquis, Town Car, 
Crown Victoria 
Ranger 
Windstar 
Ranger 
Ranger 
Ranger 
Continental 
Ranger 
Camaro, Firebird 
S10 Pick-Up, Jimmy, Blazer 
S10 Pick-Up 
Cavalier, Sunfire 
Accord LX, EX (V6) 
Accord LX, EX (V6) 
TL 
NSX 
AJ16 (SC) 
V12 
XJS 
Sephia 

No 
No 
No 

 

No 
No 
 
 
No 
No 
No 
No 
 
No 
No 
No 
No 
No 
No 
No 
Yes 
No 
No 
 
Yes 
Yes 
Yes 
Yes 
Yes 
No 
No 
No 
No 

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OBDII - On-Board Diagnostic's System - Does My Car Have OBD-II? The Connector and Communications.

STK2.3VJGFEK 
STK2.5VJGFEK 
STK1.5VJG2EK 
STK1.8VJG1EK 
SFM2.318G1EK 
SFM3.018G1EK 
SFM3.028G1FK 
SFM4.018G1EK 
SFM4.028G1EK 
SMB3.6VJGFEK 
SMT1.5VJG2EK 
SMT1.8VJG2EK 
 
SMT2.4VJG2EK 
SNS2.4VJGFFK 
SNS2.0VJGFFK 
SNS3.0VJG1EK 
SNS3.0VJG1FK 
SNS2.4VJG2EK 
SNS1.6VJG2EK 
SNS2.0VJGFEK 
SNS3.0VJG1EK 
SLR4.0H8GOEK 
SFJ2.2VJGFEK 
STY3.41JG1GK 
STY3.42JG1GK 
STY3.0VJGFEK 
 
STY2.42HGJEK 
STY2.71HGEEK 
STY1.5VHGFEK 
STY4.0VJG1GK 
STY2.41HG1GK 
STY2.71HG1GK 
STY3.41JGFEK 
STY3.42JGFEK 
STY4.55JGFEK 
SVV2.3VJGFEK 
SVV2.4VJGFEK

Mazda 
Mazda 
Mazda 
Mazda 
Mazda* 
Mazda* 
Mazda* 
Mazda* 
Mazda* 
Mercedes Benz 
Mitsubishi 
Mitsubishi 
 
Mitsubishi 
Nissan 
Nissan 
Nissan 
Nissan 
Nissan 
Nissan 
Nissan 
Nissan 
Rover 
Subaru 
Toyota 
Toyota 
Toyota 
 
Toyota 
Toyota 
Toyota 
Toyota 
Toyota 
Toyota 
Toyota 
Toyota 
Toyota 
Volvo (TC) 
Volvo

Millenia 
Millenia 
Protege 
Protege 
B2300 
B3000 
B3000 
B4000 
B4000 
S 320, C 280, SL 320 
Summit, Mirage 
Summit, & Summit Wagon, 
Mirage, Expo, LRV 
Summit Wagon, Expo, LRV 
240 SX 
G20 
Maxima 
Maxima 
Altima 
Sentra/200 SX 
200SX SE-R 
Maxima 
Range Rover New Model 
Legacy 
T100 2WD 
T100 2WD & 4WD 
Camry, Camry Wagon, 
ES300, Avalon 
Previa, Previa All-trac 
T100 2WD 
Tercel 
LS 400 
Tacoma 2WD 
Tacoma 4WD 
Tacoma 2WD/4WD 
Tacoma 4WD 
Land Cruiser 
850 Turbo Sedan/Wagon 
850 Sedan/Wagon

No 
No 
No 
No 
No 
No 
No 
No 
Yes 
No 
No 
 
No 
Yes 
Yes 
No 
No 
Yes 
Yes 
Yes 
No 
No 
Yes (A/T models only) 
Yes 
Yes 
Yes 
 
No 
Yes 
No 
No 
No 
No 
No 
No 
No 
No 
Yes

A note accompanying this list indicated that certification is for the engine group only. The models 
listed are believed correct, but the engine is the deciding factor.

   
E-mail: <

obdii@obdii.com

>

[ OBD-II Home ]

   

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© 2006 B&B Electronics

The OBD-II Home Page is hosted by

 

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DTC Lookup Codes - AutoTap

 

Thank you for visiting our DTC Code LookUp Database!

We would like to email you several additional articles on how things work on your 
car, explaining some of the most common failures in today's electronic-controlled 
vehicles and what you need to know about them before you spend your own time 
or money to fix them. We'll even tell you everything you need to know about that 
dreaded Check Engine light.

What fellow DIYer's are saying:

"I find all of your emails useful. If I run into any more problems I 
can refer back to all of your emails."
 -- Jake C. 
 
"The email I received, What Makes the Check Engine Light Tick, 
was quite informative and I must say I was pleased to receive it. I 
learned a couple of things previously unknown to me and look 
forward to the next one."
 -- P.S. McDaniel. 
 
"Great Information!!! Keep up the good work!!!!" -- Adam G. 
 
"Just wanted to let you know that these emails were very 
informative. Thank you for putting it in simple terms."
 -- Michael D. 
Diesel Mechanic. 

In order for us to better serve your needs, please complete the survey below. We 
will not release your email or mailing address to any other firm for any reason. 
Fields marked with an * are required.

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DTC Lookup Codes - AutoTap

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  We promise we won't sell or give your email address to anyone, ever.
 

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To help us write articles that are most useful to you we'd like to know a little 
about you and your car or truck.

1.  

Do you own a 1996 or newer car or light truck?   

 Yes   

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2.  

Have you had the Check Engine light come on in your vehicle?    

 

Yes   

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3.  

When something goes wrong with my car or truck, I: 

Take it to a trusted mechanic

Already know how to do most repairs, so dive right in and fix it

Research how to fix it, online or by asking friends then decide if I 
should do it myself or take it to a shop
Swear a few times and keep on driving

 

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OBD-II Acronyms and Jargon

 

OBD-II Acronyms and Jargon

Like any government instigated project, OBD-II quickly became a mouse's nest of acronyms, 
jargon, shorthand and code phrases that have meaning to the select few and sometimes seem to 
serve to keep the rest of us at bay. 

Here is a start on untangling these codes. Send in your additions to the list as you run across 
them. If you run across acronyms or jargon you don't understand, 

send them in

 and we'll try to 

decipher them for you.

AFC - Air Flow Control

ALDL - Assembly Line Diagnostic Link. Former name for GM (only) Data Link Connector, the 
connector socket into which the scan tool plug is inserted; sometimes used to refer to any pre-
OBD II computer signals

CAN - Controller Area Network

CARB - California Air Resources Board

CFI - Central Fuel Injection (a.k.a. Throttle Body Fuel Injection TBI)

CFI - Continuous Fuel Injection

CO - Carbon Monoxide

DLC - Data Link Connector

Driving Cycle - A specific sequence of start-up, warm-up and driving tasks that tests all OBD II 
functions 

(Details)

DTC - Diagnostic Trouble Code

ECM - Engine Control Module- usually the main in-car computer controlling emissions and engine 

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OBD-II Acronyms and Jargon

operation

ECT - Engine Coolant Temperature

EEC - Electronic Engine Control

EEPROM or E

2

PROM - Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory

EFI - Electronic Fuel Injection

EGR -  Exhaust Gas Recirculation

EMR - Electronic Module Retard

EPA - Environmental Protection Agency. Federal agency. Office of Mobile Sources is the branch 
concerned with auto emissions.

ESC - Electronic Spark Control

EST - Electronic Spark Timing

DPFE - Differential Pressure Feedback EGR sensor ( On Ford OBDII systems).

DTC - Diagnostic Trouble Code

FLI - Fuel Level Indicator

Fuel Trim - Engine computer function that keeps the air/fuel mixture as close to the ideal 14.7:1 
stoichiometric ratio as possible

HC - Hydrocarbons

HEI - High Energy Ignition

HO

2

- Heated Oxygen Sensor

IAT - Intake Air Temperature

ISO 9141 - International Standards Organization OBDII communication mode, used by Chrysler 
and most foreign cars. One of three hardware layers defined by OBD II

J1850PWM - (Pulse Width Modulated) SAE-established OBD II communication standard used by 

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OBD-II Acronyms and Jargon

Ford domestic cars and light trucks. One of three hardware layers defined by OBD II

J1850VPW - (Variable Pulse Width Modulated) SAE-established OBD II communication standard 
used by GM cars and light trucks. One of three hardware layers defined by OBD II

J1962 - SAE-established standard for the connector plug layout used for all OBD II scan tools

J1978 - SAE-established standard for OBD II scan tools

J1979 - SAE-established standard for diagnostic test modes

J2012 - SAE-established standard accepted by EPA as the standard test report language for 
emission tests

MAF - Mass Air Flow

MAP - Manifold Absolute Pressure

MAT - Manifold Air Temperature

MFG - Manufacturer

MIL - Malfunction Indicator Light. The "Check Engine Light" on your dash.

NOx - Oxides of Nitrogen

O

2

 - Oxygen

OBD - On-Board Diagnostics

OBDII or OBD II - Updated On-Board Diagnostics standard effective in cars sold in the US after 1-
1-96

Parameters - Readings on scan tools representing functions measured by OBD II and proprietary 
readings

PCM - Powertrain Control Module, the on-board computer that controls engine and drive train

PCV - Positive Crankcase Ventilation

PID - Parameter ID

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OBD-II Acronyms and Jargon

Proprietary Readings - Parameters shown by on-board computers which are not required by 
OBD II, but included by manufacturer to assist in trouble-shooting specific vehicles. 

PTC - Pending Trouble Code

RPM - Revolutions Per Minute

SAE - Society of Automotive Engineers, professional organization that set the standards that EPA 
adopted for OBD and OBD II

Scan Tool - Computer based read-out equipment to display OBD II parameters 

SES - Service Engine Soon dash light, now referred to as MIL

SFI - Sequential Fuel Injection

Stoichiometric ( Stoy'-kee-o-metric) Ratio - Theoretical perfect combustion ratio of 1 part gas to 
14.7 parts air

TBI - Throttle Body Injection

TPI - Tuned Port Injection

TPS - Throttle Position Sensor

VAC - Vacuum

VCM - Vehicle Control Module, the in-car computer that oversees engine management, 
transmission operation, anti-lock brakes, and other functions not directly related to emissions 
control

VIN - Vehicle Identification Number

VSS - Vehicle Speed Sensor

WOT - Wide Open Throttle

 

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http://www.obdii.com/acronyms.html (4 of 5)27-08-2006 22:08:33

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OBD-II Acronyms and Jargon

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General Motors Driving Cycle

 

General Motors Driving Cycle

A complete driving cycle should perform diagnostics on all systems. A complete driving cycle can be done 
in under fifteen minutes.

To perform an OBDII Driving cycle do the following: 

1.  

Cold Start. In order to be classified as a cold start the engine coolant temperature must be below 
50°C (122°F) and within 6°C (11°F) of the ambient air temperature at startup. Do not leave the key 
on prior to the cold start or the heated oxygen sensor diagnostic may not run. 

2.  

Idle. The engine must be run for two and a half minutes with the air conditioner on and rear 
defroster on. The more electrical load you can apply the better. This will test the O2 heater, 
Passive Air, Purge "No Flow", Misfire and if closed loop is achieved, Fuel Trim. 

3.  

Accelerate. Turn off the air conditioner and all the other loads and apply half throttle until 88km/hr 
(55mph) is reached. During this time the Misfire, Fuel Trim, and Purge Flow diagnostics will be 
performed. 

4.  

Hold Steady Speed. Hold a steady speed of 88km/hr (55mph) for 3 minutes. During this time the 
O2 response, air Intrusive, EGR, Purge, Misfire, and Fuel Trim diagnostics will be performed. 

5.  

Decelerate. Let off the accelerator pedal. Do not shift, touch the brake or clutch. It is important to 
let the vehicle coast along gradually slowing down to 32km/hr (20 mph). During this time the EGR, 
Purge and Fuel Trim diagnostics will be performed. 

6.  

Accelerate. Accelerate at 3/4 throttle until 88-96 km/hr (55-60mph). This will perform the same 
diagnostics as in step 3. 

7.  

Hold Steady Speed. Hold a steady speed of 88km/hr (55mph) for five minutes. During this time, in 
addition to the diagnostics performed in step 4, the catalyst monitor diagnostics will be performed. 
If the catalyst is marginal or the battery has been disconnected, it may take 5 complete driving 
cycles to determine the state of the catalyst. 

8.  

Decelerate. This will perform the same diagnostics as in step 5. Again, don't press the clutch or 
brakes or shift gears.

Reprinted on OBDII web site courtesy of General Motors Corporation

 

© General Motors Corporation

[ OBD-II Home ]

 

http://www.obdii.com/drivecycle.html (1 of 2)27-08-2006 22:08:41

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General Motors Driving Cycle

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Ford Motor Company Driving Cycle

 

Ford Motor Company Driving Cycle

Description of OBDII Drive Cycle

 

The following procedure is designed to execute and complete the OBDII monitors and to clear the Ford 
P1000, I/M readiness code. To complete a specific monitor for repair verification, follow steps 1 through 4, 
then continue with the step described by the appropriate monitor found under the "OBDII Monitor 
Exercised" column. When the ambient air temperature is outside 4.4 to 37.8°C (40 to 100° F), or the 
altitude is above 2438 meters (8000 feet), the EVAP monitor will not run. If the P1000 code must be 
cleared in these conditions, the PCM must detect them once (twice on some applications) before the 
EVAP monitor can be "bypassed" and the P1000 cleared. The Evap "bypassing" procedure is described in 
the following drive cycle.

The OBDII Drive Cycle will be performed using a scan tool. Consult the instruction manual for each 
described function. NOTE: A detailed description of a Powertrain Control Module (PCM) Reset is found in 
this section, refer to the table of contents.

Drive Cycle Recommendations:

1.  Most OBDII monitors will complete more readily using a "steady foot" driving style during 

cruise or acceleration modes. Operating the throttle in a "smooth" fashion will minimize the 
time required for monitor completion.

2.  Fuel tank level should be between 1/2 and 3/4 fill with 3/4 fill being the most desirable.
3.  The Evaporative Monitor can only operate during the first 30 minutes of engine operation. 

When executing the procedure for this monitor, stay in part throttle mode and drive in a 
smooth fashion to minimize "fuel slosh".

WARNING

 

STRICT OBSERVANCE OF POSTED SPEED LIMITS AND ATTENTION TO DRIVING CONDITIONS 
ARE MANDATORY WHEN PROCEEDING THROUGH THE FOLLOWING DRIVE CYCLES.

For best results, follow each of the following steps as accurately as possible:

OBDII

 

Monitor

 

Exercised

Drive Cycle Procedure

Purpose of

 

Drive Cycle 

Procedure

http://www.obdii.com/drivecycleford.html (1 of 4)27-08-2006 22:08:48

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Ford Motor Company Driving Cycle

Drive Cycle

 

Preparation

1. Install scan tool. Turn key on with the 
engine off. Cycle key off, then on. Select 
appropriate Vehicle & Engine qualifier. 
Clear all DTC's/ Perform a PCM Reset.

Bypasses 
engine soak 
timer. Resets 
OBDII Monitor 
status.

2. Begin to monitor the following PIDs: 
ECT, EVAPDC, FLI (if available) and TP 
MODE.

 

Start vehicle WITHOUT returning to Key 
Off.

3. Idle vehicle for 15 seconds. Drive at 64 
Km/h (40 MPH) until ECT is at least 76.7°
C (170° F).

Prep for 

Monitor 

Entry

4. Is IAT within 4.4 to 37.8°C (40 to 100° 
F)? If Not, complete the following steps 
but, note that step 14 will be required 
to "bypass " the Evap monitor and 
clear the P1000.

Engine warm-up 
and provide IAT 
input to the 
PCM.

HEGO

5. Cruise at 64 Km/h (40 MPH) for up to 4 
minutes.

Executes the 
HEGO monitor.

EVAP

6. Cruise at 72 to 104 Km/h (45 to 65 
MPH) for 10 minutes (avoid sharp turns 
and hills) Note, to initiate the monitor: TP 
MODE should =PT, EVAPDC must be 
>75%, and FLI must be between 15 and 
85%

Executes the 
EVAP Monitor 
(If IAT is within 
4.4 to 37.8° (40 
to 100°F))

Catalyst

7. Drive in stop and go traffic conditions. 
Include five different constant cruise 
speeds, ranging from 40 to 72 Km/h (25 
to 45 MPH) over  a 10 minute period.

Executes the 
Catalyst Monitor.

EGR

8. From a stop, accelerate to 72 Km/h (45 
MPH) at 1/2 to 3/4 throttle. Repeat 3 
times.

Executes the 
EGR Monitor.

http://www.obdii.com/drivecycleford.html (2 of 4)27-08-2006 22:08:48

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Ford Motor Company Driving Cycle

SEC AIR/

CCM 

(Engine)

9. Bring the vehicle to a stop. Idle with 
transmission in drive (neutral for M/T) for 
2 minutes.

Executes the 
ISC portion of 
the CCM.

CCM 

(Trans)

10. For M/T, accelerate from 0 to 80 Km/h 
(o to 50 MPH), continue to step 11. For A/
T, from a stop and in overdrive, 
moderately accelerate to 80 Km/h (50 
MPH) and cruise for at least 15 seconds. 
Stop vehicle and repeat without overdrive 
to 64 Km/h (40 MPH) cruising for at least 
30 seconds. While at 64 Km/h (40 MPH) , 
activate overdrive and accelerate to 80 
Km/h (50 MPH) and cruise for at least 15 
seconds. Stop for at least 20 seconds and 
repeat step 10 five times.

Executes the 
transmission 
portion of the 
CCM.

Misfire & 
Fuel 
Monitors

11. From a stop, accelerate to 104 Km/h 
(65 MPH). Decelerate at closed throttle 
until 64 Km/h (40 MPH) (no brakes). 
Repeat this 3 times.

Allows learning 
for the misfire 
monitor.

Readiness 
Check

12. Access the ON-Board System 
Readiness (OBDII monitor status) 
function on the scan tool. Determine 
whether all non-continuous monitors have 
completed. If not, go to step 13.

Determines if 
any monitor has 
not completed.

Pending 
Code 
Check and 
Evap 
Monitor 
"Bypass" 
Check

13. With the scan tool, check for pending 
codes. Conduct normal repair procedures 
for any pending code concern. Otherwise, 
rerun any incomplete monitor.

 

Note: if the EVAP monitor is not 
complete AND IAT was out of the 4.4 to 
37.8° C (40 to 100° F) temperature 
range in step #4, or the altitude is over 
2438 m. (8000 ft.), the Evap "bypass" 
procedure must be followed.

 

Proceed to step 14.

Determines if a 
pending code is 
preventing the 
clearing of 
P1000.

Evap 

Monitor 

"Bypass"

14. Park vehicle for a minimum of 8 
hours. Repeat steps 2 through 12. DO 
NOT REPEAT STEP 1.

Allow the 
"bypass" 
counter to 
increment to two.

http://www.obdii.com/drivecycleford.html (3 of 4)27-08-2006 22:08:48

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Ford Motor Company Driving Cycle

 

Reprinted on OBDII web site courtesy of Ford Motor Company

 

© Ford Motor Company

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The OBD-II Home Page is hosted by

 

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Serial communication, data communication, RS-232, RS-485, RS-422

     

 

 

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RS-485

 

802.11 Access Equipment

 

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Ethernet can be the communications backbone for all of your equipment, 
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Ethernet Serial Device Servers

 

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Serial Connectivity

 

B&B Electronics offers a huge selection of serial converters, serial cards, 
isolators and switches give you the tools you need to connect your 
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Serial Converters

 

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Serial communication, data communication, RS-232, RS-485, RS-422

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Terminal Blocks and Fuse 
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Standard Terminal Blocks

 

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Enclosures

 

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Whether you need to communicate a few meters or a few miles, convert 
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Wireless Modems

 

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USB Connectivity

 

USB has moved beyond the desktop. Now used in point-of-sale, medical 
and industrial equipment, USB provides a universal solution for device 
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as well as robust, isolated USB hubs, surge suppression, USB extension, 
cabling and more.

USB to Serial Converters

 

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USB Hubs

 

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http://www.bb-elec.com/products.asp (2 of 7)27-08-2006 22:09:24

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Serial communication, data communication, RS-232, RS-485, RS-422

Relays, Timers and Voltage 

Sensor

 

 

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Moxa

 

 

Quatech

 

 

Sensicast

 

 

Sixnet

 

 

 

 

Data Acquisition

 

Data acquisition modules from B&B Electronics handle a broad range of 
analog and digital remote I/O and deliver that data over serial, Ethernet, 
USB or wireless connections. Compact, low cost modules fit a variety of 
applications to monitor sensors and control processes or equipment.

Ethernet Data Acquisition

 

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Relays, Timers and Voltage Sensor

 

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Software

 

 

Cables and Cable Accessories

 

B&B Electronics stocks the cables and cabling accessories needed for your 
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accessory products you need. Great products, fast delivery, great prices.

Cables

 

Cable Accessories

 

 

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Serial communication, data communication, RS-232, RS-485, RS-422

Need technical help? 
We've written enough white 
papers and application notes 
on RS-232, RS-422 and RS-
485 communications to make 
you an expert too. 
 
Visit our 

technical library 

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 or call our Technical 

Support staff - they're experts 
on serial and data 
communications and would 
be happy to talk with you 
about your application. 

 
 

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Research & Development 
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ServiceStar 

 

 

Controllers

 

B&B Electronics new line of controllers will control heating and cooling 
levels in every aspect of your system, or intelligently control almost all 
discreet systems. These controllers are powerful, flexible, expandable, and 
effective at efficient prices.

Temperature Controllers

 

Programmable Logic Relay

 

Signal Conditioners

 

 

Terminal Blocks and Fuse Holders

 

B&B Electronics selected terminal blocks are modular, secure, insulated, 
and have a secure, easy to uses clamping device. Broad selection and 
modular flexibility makes it easy to maintain and centralize complex control 
and communication circuits. Manufactured in Europe, these high quality 
terminal blocks are offered at an outstanding price.

Standard Terminal Blocks

 

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DIN Rail - Snaptrak

 

 

Enclosures

 

Allied Moulded fiberglass enclosures are fabricated from a proprietary 
formulation that provides superior performance and protective properties in 
a wide variety of environments. Because it does not block radio waves, 
fiberglass is particularly suited for wireless applications—no need for an 
exposed antenna.

Junction Series

 

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Serial communication, data communication, RS-232, RS-485, RS-422

Ultraline Series

 

 

Power Supplies, Relays, Timers, Counters

 

B&B Electronics now offers Power Supplies and accessories that meet all 
your requirements to distribute your power efficiently.

Power Supplies

 

Digital Counters and Timers

 

Relays, Timers and Voltage Sensor

 

 

Surge Protection

 

These high performance products are designed to help protect against 
lighting strikes, power surges, and other types of voltage disturbances to 
components in you system. Protect electronic devices from PC’s to PLC’s.

Data Line Surge Protection

 

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Fuses

 

Fuse Holders

 

Supplementary Protectors (circuit breaker)

 

 

Automotive and Heavy Duty Vehicle Interfaces

 

B&B Electronics offers solutions for connecting to vehicle communications 
busses. Use in telematics, logistics and diagnostic applications, these 
specialty data converters make it easy to integrate vehicle communications. 
OEM and custom versions are readily available.  
 
AutoTap is a diagnostic package for OBDII vehicles. Popular with home 
mechanics, performance enthusiasts and professional technicians, AutoTap 
is a complete PC based OBDII scantool package.

  

OEM and Custom Solutions

 

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Advantech

 

 

Allied Moulded Products

 

 

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EATON Cutler-Hammer

 

 

Ferraz-Shawmut

 

 

ICP-DAS

 

 

Magnecraft

 

 

Maxstream

 

 

Moxa

 

 

Quatech

 

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Serial communication, data communication, RS-232, RS-485, RS-422

 

Sensicast

 

 

Sixnet

 

 

 

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OBDII Scan Tool Selection Guide

 

Shopping Tips for Selecting an OBDII compatible scantool

There are a growing number of scantools compatible with 1996 and newer vehicles with a wide variety of 
features. With prices ranging from $250 to $2500 anyone looking for a scantool needs to do a little 
homework to find a tool that best fits their needs.

Will it work on your vehicle?

First and foremost, the tool you purchase must support the vehicles you anticipate working on. Although 
it's true that OBDII is a standard, there are three different types of hardware communications used by 
OBDII vehicles. Some tools support all three and some are manufacturer specific. If you're a diehard 
Chevy customer, you may be able to save a few dollars by choosing a manufacturer specific tool.

Supported parameters

Not all scantools are equal. In fact, some aren't even close. As part of the OBDII standard, the US 
Environmental Protection Agency mandated that a basic set of emissions related readings be supported 
on all OBDII vehicles. The SAE specification J1979 defines these legislated parameters. Many low-end 
tools only support these emissions related readings, giving you access to only a dozen or so truly useful 
parameters. While these give you some basic vehicle information, they are just a small set of the vehicle 
information available through the OBDII port. When shopping for a scantool, be sure to find out if it 
supports just the legislated parameters or if it also includes the enhanced (sometimes called proprietary) 
diagnostics.

Is it upgradeable?

Each year vehicle manufacturers release new models and revise existing models. For a scantool to fully 
support the new vehicles, it must typically be upgraded. Professional quality scantools are upgradeable, 
although often at a price of $500 or more per upgrade. Most lower end handheld scantools are not 
upgradeable. Check what upgrades will cost before committing to a tool.

Built in help

For anyone working on his or her own vehicle, the Factory Service Manual is a must-have. But the 
scantool itself may be able to provide some of that necessary information. When a DTC is set, does the 
tool display the DTC number or give the full definition? A tool that displays the full definition will save a lot 
of time and frustration. Does the tool offer any information on typical readings to explain what the reading 
is? A simple sentence or two of explanation can save a lot of trips back and forth to the shop manual.

http://www.obdii.com/scantool_selection.html (1 of 2)27-08-2006 22:09:50

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OBDII Scan Tool Selection Guide

Data logging or storage

A sure way to park your car in a ditch is to try and watch a scantool display while doing a roadtest. A tool 
that stores data to allow safe viewing back at the garage is a must. Be certain that the tool you buy has 
this capability.

 

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OBD-II Links

 

OBD-II Links

About OBDII

OBD III

Automotive Trade Associations

OBDII Resources and Training

Environmental Protection Agency

Pre-OBDII diagnostic information

 

California Air Resources Board (CARB)

 

SAE Reference Publication Sources

About OBD-II 

UNDERSTANDING OBDII: PAST, PRESENT & FUTURE

 - article by Larry Carley. A 

comprehensive overview of On-Board Diagnostics' past and present, with a big brother-ish view of 
its possible future.

 

Larry Carley's Home Page

 - A skilled automotive repair professional, who also writes superbly, 

logs his articles on repair topics and offers a variety of auto related software. Some OBD II related, 
some just neat.

 

OnBoard Diagnostics Article

 - OBDII and performance modifications from the pages of High Tech 

Performance magazine.

[ Back to Top ]

  

  

OBD III 

Automotive Service Assn. Article

 - on the remote surveillance aspects of OBD III. 

 

[ Back to Top ]  

Environmental Protection Agency 

http://www.obdii.com/links.html (1 of 4)27-08-2006 22:10:02

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OBD-II Links

Downloadable files of EPA final OBD-II directives.

 - 6-94 through 5-97 

 

EPA Statement of 7/24/96 regarding decision to approve CARB request for OBD II waiver.

 

EPA's Position Paper on the effects of On Board Diagnostics (OBD II). 

- March 14, 1997. Now that 

the final rules for these systems are in place, EPA proposes that MOBILE6 attempt to account for 
the benefits of OBD for the newer model years. 

 

EPA Links Page to OBD-II documents.

 - May, '96 to Nov., '97 

 

EPA OBD Links Page.

 - Primarily to other EPA publications. 

 

Federal Register Notices by Publication Date with Web Links.

 - EPA Office of Transportation and 

Air Quality (OTAQ). There is no guarantee that this is a complete list, but it should be virtually 
everything generated by OTAQ since 1994. 

 

Continuation of EPA above link list.

 - through 2-19-98 

 

[ Back to Top ]

California Air Resources Board (CARB)

 

California Air Resources Board homepage.

 

California regulations for OBDII

  -  This has the 1968.1 California regulations for OBDII, a hot topic 

at the SAE seminar (This is similar to the CFR that the EPA has).

 

[ Back to Top ]

Automotive Trade Associations  

COMBATING OBD-II...AGAIN. A position paper from SEMA.

 - The Environmental Protection 

Agency recently announced plans to impose stricter emission standards for ozone-related 
emissions and airborne particulates. The tougher standards would force states and municipalities 
to achieve further emission and particulate reductions from sources that include factories, 
refineries and automobiles. 

 

[ Back to Top ]  

SAE Reference Publication Sources  

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OBD-II Links

SAE On-Board Diagnostics

  - for Light and Medium Duty Vehicles Standards Manual

 

Diagnostic systems--Part 2: digital information

 - This part of ISO 9141 describes a subset of ISO 

9141:1989. It specifies the requirements for setting up the interchange of digital information 
between on-board emission-related Electronic Control Units (ECUs) of road vehicles and the SAE 
OBD II scan tool as specified in SAE J1978.

 

OBD II Scan Tool

 - This SAE Recommended Practice defines the requirements of OBD II scan 

tools, i.e. test equipment that will interface with vehicle modules in support of the OBD II diagnostic 
requirements. 

 

Expanded Diagnostic Protocol for OBD II Scan Tools

 - This SAE Recommended Practice defines 

the Expanded Diagnostic Protocol (EDP), the requirements for the SAE J1978 OBD II Scan Tool 
for supporting the EDP protocol, and associated requirements for diagnosis and service 
information to be provided by motor vehicle manufacturers. 

 

Universal Interface for OBD II Scan

 - SAE J1978 defines the requirements of the OBD II scan 

tool. 

 

[ Back to Top ]  

 

Pre-OBDII diagnostic information 

Retrieve codes from Pre-OBDII Vehicles:

  

     

Ford

[ Back to Top ]  

 

OBDII Resources and Training 

Helm, Inc. Online Bookstore

 - Source for factory service manuals and other repair data for GM and Ford 

vehicles and some import models.

Autoshop101 - Automotive Training Resource Site

 - Automotive training support for Automotive 

technicians, students, and teachers.  Online ASE style electrical practice tests, technical articles, online 
tutorials, etc. 

Bergwell

 - Thorough OBDII information available in books and video, on CD ROM and on line. All courses 

written by technicians for technicians! 

[ Back to Top ]

  

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OBD-II Links

  

[ OBD-II Home ]

 

  

© 2006 B&B Electronics

The OBD-II Home Page is hosted by  

B&B Electronics

, Ottawa, Illinois

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OBDII Technical Library - OBDII

 

OBDII Technical Library

We're pleased to bring you this growing collection of articles to explain all things OBDII for the 
DIYer, performance enthusiast and professional technician.

Diagnosing an Engine Misfire

 

Diagnosing Light-Duty Diesels

 

Diagnosing Misfires

 

Diagnostic Flow Charts…Do They Always Work?

 

Distributorless Ignition Systems (DIS)

 

Introduction to Emissions Systems

 

Introduction to Engine Management Systems

 

OBDII and Emissions Testing

 

OBDII: Past, Present and Future

 

Onboard Diagnostics Demystified

 

PDA-Based Diagnostics: Taking Shops by Storm?

 

Preventive Maintenance: Fluids and Filters

 

Replacing Oxygen Sensors for Preventive Maintenance

 

Spark Plugs for the Home Mechanic

 

What the Home Mechanic Needs to Know About O2 Sensors

 

What's A Tune-Up Today?

 

When To Replace Your PCM (And When Not To)

 

© 2006 B&B Electronics 

http://www.obdii.com/obdii_library.asp27-08-2006 22:10:08

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ATSG - Sensor Guide - A Reference Guide to On Board Sensors

     

 

 

 

Home

 > 

Products

 > AutoTap Sensor Guide Software

AutoTap Sensor Guide 

 

An illustrated reference guide to all 

onboard vehicle sensors. Each type of 

sensor is fully covered including how it 

works, typical applications, outputs, 

diagnosis, testing and sample waveforms. 

All onboard sensors for all vehicles are 

covered including:

●     

Oxygen sensors

●     

Coolant sensors 

●     

MAP sensors

●     

BARO sensors 

●     

Throttle Position Sensors (TPS)

●     

Mass Airflow sensors (MAF)

●     

Vane Airflow sensors (VAF)

●     

Karmen Vortex Airflow sensors

●     

Knock sensors

●     

Air Temperature sensors 

●     

EGR valve position sensors

●     

Crankshaft position sensors

●     

Camshaft position sensors

●     

Vehicle Speed Sensors (VSS)

●     

Wheel Speed Sensors (WSS) on ABS systems

●     

Steering angle sensors

●     

G-Force sensors

http://www.bb-elec.com/product.asp?sku=ATSG (1 of 2)27-08-2006 22:11:41

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ATSG - Sensor Guide - A Reference Guide to On Board Sensors

●     

Airbag crash sensors

There are also special "background" sections in Sensor Guide that review the basics of:

●     

Computerized Engine Controls

●     

DIS ignition systems

●     

Using a digital oscilloscope (DSO) to 

read waveforms

●     

Fuel injection

●     

Basic electrical circuits

●     

Basic electronic theory

●     

OBD II (with list of all engine-related OBD 

II codes)

Sensor Guide is a comprehensive reference program that every technician, instructor and student 

should have for servicing today's high tech engine management systems. Use in the shop, in the 

classroom or as a study guide for taking the ASE Engine Performance Test or the LT1 Advanced 

Engine Performance Test.

Model No.

Description

Price

Buy Now

ATSG 

AutoTap Sensor Guide Software 

40.00

 

 

 

International Headquarters 

B&B Electronics

 

707 Dayton Road • PO Box 1040 • Ottawa, IL 61350 
T 815-433-5100 F 815-433-5109

Europe, Middle East, Africa 

B&B Electronics Ltd

  

10 Westlink Commercial Park, Oranmore, Co. Galway, Ireland 

T 353.91.792444 F 353.91.792445

 

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 Copyright © 2006 B&B Electronics Mfg

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