OBD – ISO 15031

ISO 15031 defines an OBD standard for emissions-related diagnostics. During operation, systems that affect exhaust emissions are continuously monitored. Any faults that occur are displayed and stored in the control module.

As early as 1965, the idea of enabling automated diagnostics began to take shape. In the initial phase (OBD-1), there were a variety of different implementations. These varied from manufacturer to manufacturer, and in some cases even between individual models. With the second phase (OBD-2), work began on standardizing fault codes using a set of standards (SAE J2012, ISO 15031-6, SAE J1979).

Recent regulations also require that the monitoring functions themselves be monitored.

Over time, the scope of coverage has been expanded so that the OBD standard now covers not only emissions-related systems but also safety-related control units, such as airbag and seatbelt pretensioner systems.

The OBD standard has been mandatory for passenger cars for several years now, and its implementation for trucks is currently underway.