First digit structure is as follows:
P***x for powertrain
B***x for body
C***x for chassis
U***x for future systems
Second digit structure is:
P0*** Government required codes
P1*** Manufacturer codes for additional emission system function, not required but reported to the government
Third digit structure is:
Px1xx measurement of air and fuel
Px2xx measurement of air and fuel
Px3xx ignition system
Px4xx additional emission control
Px5xx speed and idle regulation
Px6xx computer and output signals
Px7xx transmission
Px8xx transmission
Px9xx control modules, input and output signals
The fourth and fifth digits designate the individual components and systems.
Anatomy of the Diagnostic Trouble Code
A DTC is made up of 5 digits. The figure below demonstrates the
composition of a DTC. With this information it is easier to trouble shoot a DTC
without knowing the description of the code.
X X X X X
First Digit
B-Body?
C-Chassis?
P-Powertrain?
U-Network
Second Digit
0-SAE
1-MFG
Third Digit
1-Fuel and Air Metering
2-Fuel and Air Metering (Injector circuit)
3-Ignition Systems or Misfire
4-Auxiliary Emission Controls
5-Vehicle Speed Control and Idle Control System
6-Computer Output Circuit
7-Transmission System
8-Transmission
Fourth and Fifth Digit
Fault 00-99
Types of DTC's
There are two categories of DTC's that apply to OBD II. They are listed
below with Type A being the more severe.
Type A
1. Emissions related.
2. Requests illumination of the MIL after one failed driving cycle.
3. Stores a freeze frame DTC after one failed driving cycle.
Type B
1. Emissions related.
2. Sets a Pending Trouble Code after one failed driving cycle.
3. Clears a Pending Trouble Code after one successful driving cycle.
4. Turns on the MIL after two consecutive failed driving cycles.
5. Stores a freeze frame after two consecutive failed driving cycles