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Introduction
WHAT IS OBD?
Craftsman 14063 1
WHAT IS OBD?
The Code Reader is designed to work on all OBD2 compliant
vehicles. All 1996 and newer vehicles (cars, light trucks and SUVs)
sold in the United States are OBD2 compliant.
One of the most exciting improvements in the
automobile industry was the addition of on-
board diagnostics (OBD) on vehicles, or in more
basic terms, the computer that activates the
vehicle’s “CHECK ENGINE” light. OBD1 was
designed to monitor manufacturer-specific
systems on vehicles built from 1981 to 1995.
Then came the development of OBD2, which is
on all 1996 cars and light trucks sold in the U.S. Like its predecessor,
OBD2 was adopted as part of a government mandate to lower vehicle
emissions. But what makes OBD2 unique is its universal application for
all late model cars and trucks - domestic and import. This sophisticated
program in the vehicle’s main computer system is designed to detect
failures in a range of systems, and can be accessed through a universal
OBD2 port, which is usually found under the dashboard. For all OBD
systems, if a problem is found, the computer turns on the “CHECK
ENGINE” light to warn the driver, and sets a Diagnostic Trouble Code
(DTC) to identify where the problem occurred. A special diagnostic tool,
such as the Code Reader, is required to retrieve these codes, which
consumers and professionals use as a starting point for repairs.
The Code Reader provides the additional ability to retrieve Anti-Lock
Brake System (ABS) DTCs from most Chrysler/Jeep, Ford/Mazda,
GM/Isuzu, Honda/Acura and Toyota/Lexus vehicles. Refer to Vehicle
Applications - ABS on page 32 for vehicles covered.