Troublecode quick reference guide

What is a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC)?

Diagnostic trouble codes (or fault codes) are obd2 codes that are stored by the on-board computer diagnostic system. These are stored in response to a problem found in the car by the system. These OBD2 codes are stored when a sensor in the car reports a reading that is outside the normal/accepted range (Eg: fuel mixture too rich).

These DTC's identify a particular problem area and are intended to provide the technician with a guide as to where a fault might be occurring within the vehicle. They're the cause for indicator light malfunction on the dashboard.

Codes should be used in conjunction with the vehicle's service manual to discover which systems, circuits or components should be tested to fully diagnose the fault with a car code reader or professional OBD2 software.

Is it safe to reset an OBD2 Diagnostic Trouble Code?

Parts or components should not be replaced with reference to only a malfunctioning indicator lamp (check engine fault light). The vehicle service manual should be consulted for more information on possible causes of the fault, along with required testing.

For example, if a DTC reports a sensor fault, replacement of the sensor is unlikely to resolve the underlying problem. The fault is most likely to be caused by the systems that the sensor is monitoring, but might even be caused by the wiring to the sensor itself.

DTCs may also be triggered by faults earlier down the line. For example, a dirty MAF sensor might be causing the car to overcompensate in its fuel-trim adjustments. As a result, oxygen sensors are likely to report fuel mixture problems.

So to avoid unpredictable hazards when fixing a vehicle based on it's DTC codes -- make sure you get a reliable OBD2 reader that'll thoroughly scan the vehicle for faults beyond traditional DTC OBD2 codes.

Explanation of Codes.

This page lists 5,000+ generic and manufacturer OBD2 Diagnostic Trouble Codes.

You can also access the database by downloading the printable offline version of OBD2 codes (ideal for auto mechanics).

TIP: This helpful resource site will reveal problem, cause, solution for every obd fault code which is picked up via computer software for car diagnostics

NOTE: If your existing OBD software or scanner is not returning helpful data, you may want to consider getting advanced OBD2 scanner like TOAD which will dig a lot deeper into your car's performance, health, chip data.

obd2-fault-codes-diagram

Difference Between Generic & Manufacturer Specific OBD2 Codes.

Code type Explanation
Generic
(normally P0xxx)		 The definition for the code is defined in the EOBD / OBD-II standard and will be the same for all manufacturers.
Manufacturer-specific
(normally P1xxx)		 Where manufacturers feel that a code is not available within the generic list, they can add their own codes. The definitions for these are set by the manufacturer.


In general, codes that begin with P0 are Generic codes, whereas codes that begin with P1 are manufacturer-specific.

Additional code groups are however available to allow for expansion of these code lists.

The full breakdown of the code groups is shown below:

Powertrain codes
P0xxx - Generic
P1xxx - Manufacturer-specific
P2xxx - Generic
P30xx-P33xx - Manufacturer-specific
P34xx-P39xx - Generic
Chassis codes
C0xxx - Generic
C1xxx - Manufacturer-specific
C2xxx - Manufacturer-specific
C3xxx - Generic
Body codes
B0xxx - Generic
B1xxx - Manufacturer-specific
B2xxx - Manufacturer-specific
B3xxx - Generic
Network Communication codes
U0xxx - Generic
U1xxx - Manufacturer-specific
U2xxx - Manufacturer-specific
U3xxx - Generic

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DTC from P0000 to P0299 (Air/Fuel Mixture Control and Metering):

DTC from P0300 to P0399 (Ignition System Control and Misfire Detection):

DTC from P0400 to P0499 (Auxiliary Emissions Control, EGR, EVAP etc.):

DTC from P0500 to P0599 (Engine idling control, Vehicle Speed and Auxiliary Inputs):

DTC from P0600 to P0699 (Onboard computer and Auxiliary Outputs):

DTC from P0700 to P0999 (Transmission - gearbox control):

Other Diagnostic Fault Codes (P, C, B, U):

Car Diagnostics and OBD2 / OBD-2 / OBD-II Codes RESOURCES: