OBD
Knowledge

OBD Related Articles

History of On-Board Diagnostics (OBD)

While the emphasis on improving air quality through the control of vehicle emissions has never been greater than it is today, concerns over the causes and effects of air pollution began as early as the mid 1950’s. Not surprisingly, most pollution regulations began in California, as its geography, population, and number of registered vehicles make it particularly susceptible to emissions-related air pollution.

Following is a “calendar” of the landmark events, innovations and legislation that have contributed to the development and continued growth of On-Board Diagnostics.

1955
Air Pollution Control Act of 1955
Los Angeles County Motor Vehicle Pollution Control laboratory established
1959
Department of Public Health Legislation
1959
Federal Motor Vehicle Act of 1960
Motor Vehicle Pollution Control Board
1961
Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PVC)
1963
Clean Air Act of 1963
Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare empowered to define air quality criteria
PCV Requirement of 1961
1965
Motor Vehicle Air Pollution Control Act of 1965
1966
Vehicle tailpipe emission standards or hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide
California Highway Patrol initiates random roadside inspections
1967
Air Quality Act of 1967
California is granted a waiver to the Federal Clean Air Act of 1967
California Air Resources Board (CARB)
1970
United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Clean Air Act Amendments of 1970
1975
Implementation of the first two-way catalytic converter.
1976
Volvo implements the first three-way catalytic converter
CARB places limits on the amount of lead in gasoline to prevent damage to catalytic converters
1980
CARB initiates "compliance testing" of vehicles
1982
CARB lays the groundwork for "On-Board Diagnostics"
1988
California Clean Air Act
Every vehicle sold in California be equipped with an On-Board Diagnostics system
CARB adopts regulations (effective in 1994)
1992
Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990
1994
"Smog Check II" legislation
1996
The U.S. "Big Three" auto makers commit to "zero emission" vehicles