The ECM is also commonly referred to as the engine control unit (ECU) or powertrain control module (PCM). The engine control module (ECM) functions as the main computer on all newer model vehicles. When the vehicle’s computer detects an issue that requires attention, it will activate the corresponding trouble code. Each code corresponds to a fault detected in the vehicle. How do DTC codes work?ĭiagnostic Trouble Codes or OBD-II (in light-duty vehicles) or J1939 (in heavy-duty vehicles) trouble codes are codes that the vehicle’s OBD system uses to notify you about a problem. That code is known as a (DTC) diagnostic trouble code. Any time the system detects a problem, it records that problem as a code. The vehicle’s electronic system performs self-diagnosis and reporting.

If a vehicle’s manufacture date is 1996 or newer, it will most likely be OBD-II compliant.

SAE is now called SAE International, and it is a professional organization that develops standards for automotive engineers. These codes were created by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) to help vehicles comply with emission regulations. The system can be set up to deliver the alert right to the maintenance department. In vehicles equipped with a telematics system, the alert can be delivered directly to the fleet. When the vehicle’s OBD system detects a problem, it generates a specific DTC code and transmits the alert to the vehicle’s instrument panel as a warning light. Different codes have different DTC meanings and represent specific problems in your vehicle. What does DTC mean, and what are DTC codes? Let’s start by explaining the DTC meaning first.Ī DTC code is a series of diagnostic trouble codes used by a vehicle’s onboard diagnostics (OBD) system to alert you when a vehicle experiences a malfunction. Understanding DTC codes and how they integrate with your fleet software solution can help improve driver safety and deliver healthy ROI. Having the right vehicle diagnostics software system in place to deliver fault codes in real-time will help keep your fleet running more efficiently and smoothly. If you have a fleet management software system in place, the DTC codes will be sent in real-time to a fleet manager or technician. These trouble codes are often referred to as Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC) codes.ĭTC codes help you understand what needs to be fixed so you can keep your vehicle operational and safe. When a vehicle’s onboard diagnostics system detects a malfunction, it generates the appropriate diagnostic trouble code and usually alerts the driver via a warning light or other indicator on the vehicle’s instrument panel.

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