Onboard Diagnostic II (OBDII) 101

Learn More About The Brains Of Your Vehicle

What is the On-board Diagnostic?

The onboard diagnostics (OBDII) is the internal computer system that detects and performs an initial diagnosis of issues with your vehicle and provides subsystem reporting for your vehicle technician. While the history of OBDII dates back to the 1960s, the system was standardized nationally in 1988. Vehicle manufacturers could no longer have their own systems with the proprietary connector types and/or electronic interface requirements. OBDII became the standard across the United States as of 2008 and was required in all vehicles.

Why is OBDII Important?

The OBDII is responsible for monitoring all of the systems in your car to ensure they are working properly. Given the continued complexity of your vehicle’s systems, the OBDII not only tracks the performance and efficiency of those systems but is also crucial for pinpointing any issues that could directly impact the vehicle’s fuel mileage or drivability. If the OBDII finds an issue, it will illuminate the check engine light to let you know.

The issue could be small, like an uncapped fuel tank, or it could be significantly bigger, like a failure in one of the primary systems, like the catalytic converter. This is why it’s important not to ignore your check engine light.

The OBDII provides a trouble code. From vacuum leaks to a bad air sensor, emission component failures, and more, the code will point an experienced technician in the right direction to troubleshoot the damaged or failing system. Then they will know exactly what kind of repair is needed.

We’re Here to Help!

The friendly and experienced technicians at North Side Service Center are here to help! With the most current equipment to properly read the OBDII codes and a team of technicians who will take care of you. We also have customized preventative maintenance schedules to fit your vehicle needs and your budget.

We understand that your time (and money) are important, and we do our best to keep your experience polite, professional, and transparent. From easy-to-understand quotes to our 24-month/24,000 miles warranty, our ASE-Certified team is here to help get you back on the road quickly and safely. A TechNet Professional Automotive Service® center, we stand on sound business principles and uphold the highest ethical standards to provide you with Service You Can Trust for all your vehicle repair needs. So, if your check engine light has come on, please call our office at 574-266-4573 or stop by our location at 140 Co Rd 6 W. Elkhart, IN 46514 for our next available appointment.