What to Look for When You Use Your OBD2 Scanner

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Contact us if you have any questions :)

car engine motor obd2 codes

Engine Fault Codes, DTCs, PIDs and more!

 OBD2 scanners encompass a wide range of functionalities dependent upon its status as either a basic code reader or an advanced scan tool. While both OBD2 models prove to be immensely valuable to vehicle owners, there is a range of divergences between the two.

The more basic code readers are limited to solely reading and clearing DTCs (diagnostic trouble codes) while the more advanced OBD2 scanning tools have the ability to record data and view in real time, in addition to providing an assemblage of highly specified knowledge. Advanced OBD2 scanning tools also have the ability to enable vehicle owners’ clear access to bi-directional tests and controls along with other advanced functionalities.

While an advanced OBDII scanning tool is unquestionably relevant to car ownership, the more basic OBD-2 scanners offer an elemental and essential functionality to vehicle owners in a no-frills, bare-bones fashion. With its ability to read and clear codes and access data on the vast array of makes and models of vehicles produced post-1996, a basic OBD2 scanner is an affordable device that offers car owners the critically important ability to self-diagnose common automobile systems issues without having to consult costly mechanics or automotive shops.

Connecting to the On-Board Diagnostics Port

obd2 data link port

OBDII standardized, universal nature makes them effortlessly easy to use. Operated by a common connector defined by SAE J1962, the operation requires only a simple insertion of a universal plug into a vehicles’ OBD-2 diagnostic connector.

A cursory OBD2 scan yields a myriad of information that is immensely valuable. OBD2’s data results will directly point car owners to specific systems or components within their vehicles that have malfunctioned or require basic attention. Within just a few seconds time, car owners are able to pinpoint specific vehicle problems and save considerable time, expense, and unnecessary frustration in determining the cause of check engine lights and other problems.

 

Using Your OBD Scanner Diagnostic Tool

When utilizing your wireless OBDII scanner, there are a number of things that you need to look out for to ensure a successful and effective test of your vehicle. Simply follow the easy instructions below to ensure a successful diagnostic run of your vehicle

 

  • Ensure that you have plugged the appropriate basic scan tool into the OBD II connector under the dash
  • Place the key into the ignition and turn the key on to power up and initialize the OBD2. Ensure that you do this without actually starting the vehicle’s engine
  • Subsequently, start the vehicle and proceed to follow the instruction manual’s code reading procedures
  • The scan tool will request a range of information from you including the vehicle’s VIN, vehicle make and model, and the type of engine.
  • Following the onscreen instructions, input the correct answers to the questions
  • Following the directions on the screen, simply press scan and wait for the diagnostic results to come back and inform you what issues the vehicle is experiencing
  • At this point, you will be afforded the opportunity to read and erase diagnostic trouble codes, check to see completeness of readiness monitors, and view engine data in real time for an in-depth and comprehensive look at the functionality of the vehicle’s systems
  • A comprehensive list of universal DTCs (diagnostic trouble codes) is provided for you at the bottom of this article. Also included is an easy to read graph that lists common acronyms and their respective meanings.
  • If you need further information about individual DTCs, double check the instruction manual or CD-ROM that came with the OBD2 scanner. Additionally, you can also perform a simple web search by keying in the code and obtaining a simple explanation online
  • Upon establishing the diagnostic trouble codes for your vehicle, you can utilize the information to make informed purchases of essential parts to repair your vehicle or you can share the information with the mechanic fixing your vehicle as a way to corroborate his own independent diagnostic findings
  • Error codes are also known as fault codes and DTCs (diagnostic trouble codes). These codes are stored within the on-board diagnostic computer system. Stored within the on-board computerized diagnostic system in response to issues found within vehicle systems, these codes result from the system finding specific vehicle problems that require addressing.

 

A comprehensive summary and explanation of all the relevant information you need to successfully complete your OBD2 vehicle scan is compiled below in easy to view charts and pictures.

Types of Error/Fault/Trouble Codes

 A fault code is an alphanumeric value relating to a specific type of fault found within a vehicle’s system. The list of fault codes was created by the Society of Automotive Engineers, also known as SAE, for all vehicles manufactured after 1996 that are required to be compliant with OBD2 specifications.

 

SAE-defined trouble codes are broken down into 4 specific categories as follows:

  • Powertrain (P) codes relating to emissions, engine, and transmission systems
  • Body (B) codes relating to lighting, airbags, and climate control systems
  • Chassis (C) codes relating to electronic suspension, anti-lock brake systems, and steering systems
  • Network Communications (U) codes relating to controller area network modules

Trouble codes from these 4 specific categories are further broken down into the following two basic groups of fault codes:

  • Generic/Global codes: Required for basic emission fault diagnoses, these codes are identified by a 0 numerical value as the second digit, indicating a universal commonality to all vehicle makes and models.
  • Enhanced/Manufacturer-specific codes: Designated with a numerical value of 1 as the secondary digit, these codes indicate a unique association to specific vehicle makes and models.

 

Most Common Engine Fault Codes

 

P0420 Low efficiency Catalyst System
P0171 Fuel-Trim System Lean-Bank One
P0401 Insufficent flow to EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation)
P0174 Fuel-Trim System Lean-Bank Two
P0442 Smaller leak detection in EVAP (Evaporative Emission Control System)
P0300 Random misfire detection in Engine
P0455 Larger leak detection in EVAP (Evaporative Emission Control System)
P0440 EVAP Evaporative Emission System
P0141 H02S (Oxygen Heater Sensor)

Performance Bank One, Sensor Two

P0430 Catalyst system: Low-efficiency Bank Two
P0135 (H02S) Oxygen sensors: Performance Bank One, Sensor One
P0446 EVAP (Evaporative Emission System)

“Solenoid” Valve-Control

P0128 Thermostat for coolant regulation
P0301 Misfire detected in cylinder 1
P0411 Erroneous purge-flow in Evaporative Emission Control System (EVAP)
P0133 Oxygen-sensor sluggish response: Bank 1, Sensor 1
P0303 Misfire detected in cylinder 3
P0304 Misfire detected in cylinder 4
P0302 Misfire detected  in cylinder 2
P0325 Powertrain Control Module “knock-sensor” circuit

 

Powertrain Codes
P0xxx: Generic
P1xxx: Specific to manufacturer
P2xxx: Generic
P30xx to P33xx: Specific to manufacturer
P34xx toP39xx:  Generic

 

Chassis Codes
C0xxx: Generic
C1xxx: Specific to manufacturer
C2xxx: Specific to manufacturer
C3xxx: Generic

 

Body Codes
B0xxx: Generic
B1xxx: Specific to manufacturer
B2xxx: Specific to manufacturer
B3xxx: Generic

 

Network Communication Codes
U0xxx: Generic
U1xxx: Specific to manufacturer
U2xxx: Specific to manufacturer
U3xxx: Generic

 

 

Hit a roadblock? Let us connect you with a pro.

If you’re having trouble with your car, it might be time to talk to an expert. Scanner Answers is proud to partner with RepairPal to help you find the best deals on car repair in your area. RepairPal mechanics specialize in offering high quality work at guaranteed fair prices. Find a Repair Shop or speak with an expert now Call (877) 314-1060