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User’s Manual
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2.3 Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs)
OBD 2 Diagnostic Trouble Codes are codes that are stored by the on-board
computer diagnostic system in response to a problem found in the vehicle. These
codes identify a particular problem area and are intended to provide you with a
guide as to where a fault might be occurring within a vehicle.
DO NOT
replace
parts based only on DTCs without first consulting the vehicle’s service manual for
proper testing procedures for that particular system, circuit or component.
OBD 2 Diagnostic Trouble Codes consist of a five-digit alphanumeric code.
The 1st character is a
letter
(B, C, P or U). It identifies the “main system”
where the fault occurred (Body, Chassis, Powertrain, or Network).
The 2nd character is a
numeric digit
(0 thru 3). It identifies the “type” of code
(Generic or Manufacturer-Specific).
*Notes: Generic DTCs are codes that are used by all vehicle manufacturers. The
standards for generic DTCs, as well as their definitions, are set by the Society of
Automotive Engineers (SAE). Manufacturer-Specific DTCs are codes that are controlled
by the vehicle manufacturers.
The Federal Government does not require vehicle manufacturers to go beyond the
standardized generic DTCs in order to comply with the new OBD 2 emissions standards.
However, manufacturers are free to expand beyond the standardized codes to make
their systems easier to diagnose.
The 3rd character is a letter or a
numeric digit
(0 thru 9, A thru F). It identifies
the specific system or sub-system where the problem is located.
The 4th and 5th characters are
letters
or
numeric digits
(0 thru 9, A thru F).
They identify the section of the system that is malfunctioning.
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