OBD
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OBD Related Articles
- History of On-Board Diagnostics (OBD)
- About Computer Engine Controls
- What is OBD?
- Data Link Connector (DLC)
- Communication Protocols
- Diagnostic Trouble Codes
- Monitors
- I/M Readiness
- OBD2 Diagnostic Operational Modes
- Glossary of Terms
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 |