New OBD Systems (Was: Audi Turbo....going, going,gone

[Bob Kunz <bkunz@hpbs114.boi.hp.com>]

> 
> Andrew Duane USG/PE sez:
> > You've got to be kidding. I assume this is out kindly Uncle Sam (not
> > at all to be confused with our Kindly Unka Bart) "protecting" us from
> > rough idles and other terrible things?
> > 
> > I never heard anything about this. Is it the EPA, DOT, NHTSA, or what?
> 
> OBDC, otherwise known as OBD III (On-Board Diagnostic Computer or 3), is
> an EPA-mandated system to constantly monitor all operations of the
> emissions system.  The plan is for testing stations to plug in to  the
> OBD connector on your car during annual emmissions inspection, and then
> to determine if a system fault has occured during the past year -- which
> the center will then insist you fix.

Thanks for this info. As I research a new Chrysler T&C purchase I was
wondering if having this system was an advantage or disadvantage. I
suppose it depends on one's point of view...

Already, data is available on the interface (coincident with the introduction
of the van), what it does and how it communicates. Just like everything
else in this realm it will not take too long before the protocol is
all figured out. It would be a simple matter to create a simulator for
the EPA police to plug into to make one's car look like all is OK. Perhaps
we should start working on it now?

The advanatge of course is that the system checks for and reports things
like misfirings, EGR malfunction, and other items that will help the
DIYer with repairs.

Just MHO,
Bob Kunz
bkunz@boi.hp.com