Ever wondered how your vehicle decides it’s time to display your check engine light? The brain behind the warning signals you see on your dashboard is your car’s OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) system.
And lucky we are to have this super intelligent OBD technology in our cars!
Unlike vehicle-owners of the past, we don’t have to continually check under the hood to make sure everything is working properly (although, we SHOULD look under there from time to time). An OBD system is like our own little computerized car performance expert with us at all times to help prevent breakdowns and keep us safe on the road.
Read on to learn how this modern car technology works and everything else you need to know about your OBD system.
What is On-Board Diagnostics?
As the name suggests, On-Board-Diagnostics (OBD) refers to the system in every modern car that diagnoses potential problems with vehicle performance.
Our OBD systems send us notifications about everything from our engine and battery to our tire pressure and coolant temperature. It even tells us if we’ve left one of our car doors open or if we’ve run out of windshield wiper fluid!
Since it was established in the 80s, OBD systems have evolved significantly. The growth of the computer technology can be split into two distinct categories: OBD I and OBD II.
Understanding OBD I
Until 1996, OBD technology varied widely among car manufacturers. Each manufacturer required its own unique equipment to collect diagnostic information. The average mechanic simply didn’t have all the proper tools to interpret codes and information for each and every manufacturer. And drivers had no choice but to take their vehicle directly to dealerships – which could be pretty costly.
Understanding OBD II
After California set statewide standards for On-Board Diagnostics systems in vehicles in 1994, the Society of Automotive Engineers, the International Standardization Organization, and the EPA standardized OBD requirements everywhere else.
Now, all OBD systems must incorporate the same Diagnostic Link Connector (DLC), allowing mechanics to use the same cable and equipment – no matter the make or model. Additionally, current EPA standards require OBD systems to monitor vehicle emissions.
There are numerous benefits of the current technology, including…
- Rapid diagnosis – No more wasting time at the shop waiting for mechanics to identify the problem source! OBD codes help technicians quickly assess and repair vehicle components.
- Reduced human error – Even the most seasoned mechanics miss something from time to time. The human brain is no competition for the highly accurate modern OBD systems – at least when it comes to diagnostics.
- Valuable metrics – OBD II tracking extends beyond simple maintenance metrics, monitoring driver behavior, emissions compliance, and other critical performance data.
- Environmental protections – Now that the EPA requires OBD systems to track emissions, it’s easier for authorities to ensure drivers are complying with national Clean Air Act regulations.
How does OBD work?
Your OBD system gathers information from sensors scattered throughout your vehicle – in your engine, in your chassis, and even in your car’s computer system.
If sensors pick up on any abnormalities, your OBD system will save the information as a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) signifying the source and nature of the issue. This will trigger a Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) to pop up on your dashboard.
Your OBD system can also use the information it collects to regulate other car systems.
When a problem is detected, your OBD system will store the information. A technician can then plug OBD-II scanners, code-readers, and other specialized devices into an OBD port (or Diagnostic Link Connector) to accurately identify problems and make repairs – quick and easy!
So, the next time you get a dashboard warning light…
Now you know what’s going on behind the scenes when that tire pressure light pops on your dash! But unless you are a trained mechanic, you still need to take your car to the qualified technician.
While On-Board Diagnostics systems are now consistent across the board, interpreting diagnostic codes can be tricky, requiring specialized expertise and equipment.
Pro Tip: OBD emissions testing is an integral part of most states’ car inspection requirements. To make sure your vehicle isn’t releasing too many harmful substances, stay on top of your routine state inspections.
Performance Auto Specialists | Wilmington, NC Auto Technology Specialists
The Performance Auto Specialists team takes great pride in our ability to quickly and efficiency diagnose and repair highly complex automotive systems – for a fraction of the cost at dealerships. Whether you have an issue with inaccurate indicator lights or just received the dreaded check engine light, we’ve got you covered!
Schedule an appointment today!
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