On-Board Diagnostic systems (OBD) on 1996 and newer vehicles will be checked as part of Delaware’s vehicle inspection program. OBD technology benefits motorists, repair technicians and our environment. It’s good for motorists because it monitors the vehicles performance every time it is driven and identifies problems immediately allowing service to be done before more serious problems develop.

With the key on and the engine off, the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) is checked to verify that it works; and, A cable is attached to the on-board computer connection (called a Data Link Connector or DLC) that checks the OBD system status. You can easily verify that you will pass the 1st criteria by confirming that the MIL bulb lights-up when the key is turned to the full on position without starting the engine. Then start the engine and see if the MIL stays on.

OBD stands for On-Board Diagnostics and this is the second generation of this technology. Starting in 1996, all vehicles sold in the United States were required to include this technology. It requires a computer on board the vehicle that monitors the engine and power train systems and logs any problems that could cause the vehicle's emissions to increase. A failed OBD-II test means that there is a problem with the vehicle.

OBD is short for "On-Board-Diagnostic" and simply refers to those systems that are controlled or incorporated into the new automobile computers to monitor or control systems that affect the vehicle emissions. The Clean Air Act of 1970 established the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and several graduated emission standards were established over time. Vehicle manufacturers eventually turned to electronics to control the fuel and ignition systems to meet the standards.

The OBD II offers a buffer that will keep you or us from damaging your vehicle. The OBD II is used strictly to retrieve and diagnose your vehicles information and is not designed to tamper with or change anything outside of its domain. The only thing that the OBD II can modify on your vehicle is the check engine light and the error codes associated with that function.

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. 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.

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.

OBD stands for On Board Diagnostic. There are 2 versions. OBD-I and OBD-II. In 1970 Congress passed the Clean Air Act 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.

OBD II compliant vehicles must also have a 16-pin connector located in plain sight underneath the dash near the driver's seat. Alternatively it may be behind ashtrays or concealed by an easily removed plastic cover, sometimes with the letters "OBD" stamped on the outside.

There are three types of interfaces that we offer (ISO, VPW, PWM). You can find out what interface your vehicle supports by viewing this document. If you are unable to locate your vehicle in the list (ignore the year), then contact us for further assistance.

Generally, we complete your inspection within 24-48 hours of your call, however if a seller is not available until a later date, we will call you to notify you of any delay. The inspection officer will liase directly with the seller to arrange a suitable time to perform the inspection. Each inspection takes approximately 120 minutes to perform, and the results can be faxed, emailed or express posted immediately after completion.

Automobiles use a variety of warning lamps to notify drivers of different conditions. However, in the case of the MIL, either the phrase “Service Engine Soon” or “Check Engine,” or a standard symbol such as the one below is used.

Yes, you need ODB-II compatible car to use Carman. But you may use or try Carman in simulator mode also to see how it works.

Gold Star Home Inspection of course, Why? You also want an inspection company with high standards and ethics. Our pricing is competitive, and we are available Monday - Saturday to inspect your new home. Some home buyers choose to forgo having their home inspected by a professional inspection service. They may have a family member or friend who is knowledgeable about homes and construction.

Due to the busy schedules of realtors, clients, sellers, and buyers, Ringen's Unbiased Inspections is available 7 days a week by appointment. Keep in mind that home inspections do need to be performed during daylight hours.