What is “Onboard Diagnostics II” (OBD II)?
OBD II is the second generation of onboard diagnostics that monitors the operation of a vehicle’s engine and the emissions control systems. Model year 1996 and newer vehicles weighing <8,500 lbs (passenger cars, light-duty pick-up trucks, most vans) are manufactured with OBD II. If OBD II detects a problem that could result in excessive emissions, a malfunction indicator light will illuminate on the vehicle's dashboard. While newer vehicles are designed and manufactured to meet cleaner standards, their emissions will remain low only if properly maintained. By detecting emissions control component deterioration and/or failures, vehicles can be properly serviced before more serious and more expensive problems develop. The OBD II inspection requires the connection of the NYVIP test equipment to the vehicle's standardized OBD connector to download emissions systems' information.
