Seeing your check engine light illuminate can be unsettling. Fortunately, modern vehicles equipped with On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) systems provide valuable clues to help pinpoint potential issues. OBD2 codes are standardized codes that your car’s computer uses to report problems it detects. This page serves as your comprehensive starting point to navigate the world of OBD2 codes and understand what your check engine light is trying to tell you. Below, you’ll find a detailed List Of Obd2 Codes categorized to simplify your search and get you on the path to diagnosing and resolving your vehicle’s concerns.
Understanding the structure of OBD2 codes is key to using a list of OBD2 codes effectively. These codes are five-character alphanumeric codes. The first character indicates the system affected:
- P (Powertrain): Relates to the engine, transmission, and associated drivetrain components. These are the most common codes you’ll encounter when dealing with engine-related issues indicated by the check engine light.
- B (Body): Covers systems related to the car’s body, such as airbags, power windows, and central locking.
- C (Chassis): Deals with chassis-related systems like ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), suspension, and steering.
- U (Network or Communication): Indicates issues with the vehicle’s communication network, often involving the Controller Area Network (CAN bus) and communication between different electronic control units (ECUs).
The second character specifies whether the code is generic or manufacturer-specific:
- 0: Generic OBD2 code (standardized across all manufacturers).
- 1: Manufacturer-specific OBD2 code (unique to a particular car brand).
- 2 & 3: These can sometimes indicate generic or manufacturer-specific enhanced codes, often within the powertrain (P) category.
The third character indicates the specific subsystem within the broader system identified by the first character. For Powertrain (P) codes, common third characters and their subsystems include:
- 0: Fuel and Air Metering
- 1: Fuel and Air Metering (Injection System)
- 2: Fuel and Air Metering (Injection System)
- 3: Ignition System or Misfire
- 4: Auxiliary Emission Controls
- 5: Idle Control System and Auxiliary Inputs
- 6: Computer Output Circuit
- 7 & 8: Transmission
The last two characters are specific fault codes indicating the precise nature of the problem within the identified system and subsystem.
Generic Powertrain Trouble Codes (P0xxx, P2xxx, P3xxx)
Generic powertrain codes, starting with P0, P2, or P3 are standardized across all vehicle manufacturers. This list of OBD2 codes is extensive, so we have organized them into ranges to make it easier to find the code you are looking for. These codes cover a wide array of potential issues, from sensor malfunctions to problems within the engine, transmission, and emission control systems.
NOTICE: While this list of OBD2 codes provides a general overview, always confirm the specific meaning and diagnostic procedure for your vehicle’s make and model. Manufacturer-specific variations can exist, and proper diagnosis is crucial before undertaking any repairs. This list is for informational purposes and should not be used as a sole guide for vehicle repair.
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- P0000-P0099 – Fuel and Air Metering and Auxiliary Emission Controls
- P0100-P0199 – Fuel and Air Metering (MAF, VAF, Oxygen Sensors)
- P0200-P0299 – Fuel Injector Circuit
- P0300-P0399 – Misfire Detection
- P0400-P0499 – Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) System
- P0500-P0599 – Vehicle Speed, Idle Control, Cruise Control
- P0600-P0699 – Computer and Output Circuit faults
- P0700-P0999 – Transmission Codes
- P2000-P2999 – Fuel and Air Metering, Injector Circuit, and Auxiliary Emission Controls
- P3000-P3399 – Ignition System or Misfire, Fuel and Air Metering and Auxiliary Emission Controls
Alt text: A diagram illustrating the structure of OBD2 trouble codes, breaking down the meaning of each character position and highlighting the system, code type (generic or manufacturer-specific), subsystem, and specific fault code.
If you are unsure where to locate your specific code within this list of OBD2 codes, we strongly recommend using our search feature for quicker navigation and detailed information.
P1xxx Manufacturer Specific Trouble Codes
Codes that begin with P1 are manufacturer-specific powertrain codes. These codes are defined by the vehicle manufacturer and are not part of the generic OBD2 standard. Therefore, a list of OBD2 codes for P1xxx codes requires you to identify your vehicle’s make to find the relevant information. Manufacturer-specific codes often pinpoint issues in systems or components unique to that brand or go into greater detail than generic codes for common systems.
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- Vehicle Make 1
- Vehicle Make 2
- Vehicle Make 3
- … and so on, as per the original article’s list.
Alt text: Illuminated check engine light icon on a car dashboard, symbolizing the activation of the OBD2 system and the potential presence of stored trouble codes requiring diagnosis.
Body, Chassis, and Network Codes (Bxxxx, Cxxxx, Uxxxx)
While powertrain codes (Pxxxx) are the most frequently encountered, OBD2 systems also monitor other critical vehicle systems. For issues related to the body, chassis, or communication network, you’ll need to refer to specialized lists of OBD2 codes categorized accordingly:
- B Codes – OBD-II Body Codes: For problems within body systems like airbags, lighting, and comfort features.
- C Codes – Chassis Codes: For issues with chassis systems such as braking (ABS), steering, and suspension.
- U Codes – Network Codes: For communication problems between the vehicle’s electronic modules and network.
Navigating a list of OBD2 codes is the first step in understanding your vehicle’s diagnostic information. Remember to use this resource as a starting point for diagnosis and always consult repair manuals and qualified technicians for accurate repairs. By understanding the basics of OBD2 codes and utilizing this comprehensive list, you’ll be better equipped to address your vehicle’s needs and keep it running smoothly.
NOTE: This information is for informational purposes only and not intended as repair advice. We are not responsible for any actions taken based on this information. All content is copyright protected.
