OBD2 Common Code List and Guide

What is the OBD2 code?

An OBD2 code is a diagnostic trouble code stored by a vehicle’s on-board diagnostics computer system when it detects a problem with the vehicle. OBD2 codes consist of a five-digit alphanumeric identifier corresponding to a specific issue, which can help identify the faulty component or system. Diagnosing OBD2 codes is a starting point for further troubleshooting and repair.

OBD2 Error Codes Lookup

Below is a list of some of the most common OBD2 codes and their typical causes. Diagnosing and resolving these codes can help prevent further damage to the vehicle and keep your car running smoothly.

While this list provides an overview of typical issues associated with each code, specific causes may vary depending on your vehicle’s year, make, and model. Always refer to a vehicle-specific OBD2 code manual for accurate diagnostic and repair information on your vehicle.

B codes
B1018B1018 Nissan Code – Occupant Sensor
B1156Toyota Code – Front Airbag Sensor RH Malfunction
B1342ECU Is Defective
B1381Oil Change Reset Button Circuit Open
C codes
C0110C0110 Code – Pump Motor Circuit
C0561Chevrolet Code – System Disabled Information
C0700Transmission Control System Malfunction
C1201Toyota Engine Control System Malfunction
C2200Anti-Lock Brake Module Internal Failure
P codes
P000A“A” Camshaft Position Slow Response
P0001Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit/Open
P0008“A” Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit/Open
P0010“A” Camshaft Position Actuator Circuit (Bank 1)
P0011Nissan Code – Camshaft Timing for The Intake Side of Bank 1
P0118Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor 1 Circuit High
P0122Throttle Position Sensor/Switch A Circuit Low Input
P0128Engine Coolant Temperature Below Thermostat Regulating Temperature
P0139Oxygen Sensor Circuit Slow Response
P0171System Too Lean Bank 1
P0175 System Too Rich Bank 2
P0230 Fuel Pump Primary Circuit Malfunction
P2810Pressure Control Solenoid G Electrical
P0300Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
P0302Cylinder 2 Misfire Detected
P0304Cylinder 4 Misfire Detected
P0332 Knock Sensor 2 Low Circuit Input (Bank 2)
P0335 Crankshaft Position “A” Circuit Malfunction
P0340Camshaft Position Sensor “A” Circuit
P0401Exhaust Gas Recirculation Flow Insufficient Detected
P0403Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) “A” Control Circuit Malfunction
P0420Catalyst System Low Efficiency
P0430Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 2)
P0446 Evaporative Emission System Vent Control Circuit
P0456Evaporative Emission System Small Leak Detected
P0496 EVAP Flow During a Non-Purge Condition
P0500 Vehicle Speed Sensor
P0520Engine Oil Pressure Sensor/Switch “A” Circuit
P0524Engine Oil Pressure Too Low
P059FActive Grille Shutter Performance Issues
P06DD Engine Oil Pressure Control Circuit Stuck Off
P0700Transmission Control System Malfunction
P1135Air/Fuel Ratio Sensor Heater Circuit for Bank 1, Sensor 1
P1171Fuel System Lean During Acceleration
P1326 Knock Sensor Detection System
P1450 Cannot Bleed Up Fuel Tank Vacuum
P1656 Toyota Code – Oil Control Valve Circuit Malfunction
P1716Turbine Revolution Sensor
P1778 Transmission Reverse I/P Circuit Malfunction
P219AFuel Trim Cylinder Balance Bank 1
P3400Cylinder Deactivation System Bank 1
U codes
U0100Lost Communication With ECM/PCM “A”
U0121Lost Communication with Anti-Lock Braking System
U0140Lost Communication With Body Control Module
U1000CAN Bus Communication Malfunction
U11E9Lost Communication with Active Grill Shutter

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the codes for OBD2?

OBD2 codes are 5-digit alphanumeric codes beginning with a letter (B, C, P, or U) followed by four digits corresponding to a specific issue detected by the vehicle’s computer.

Does an OBD2 scanner read all codes?

An OBD2 scanner can read all emission-related diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) stored in a vehicle’s on-board computer system. However, there are different levels of OBD2 scanners – basic vs. professional. 

Basic OBD2 scanners can only read generic codes which are P, B, C and U codes. Professional-grade scanners can access enhanced and manufacturer-specific codes.

What are the 10 modes of OBD2?

The 10 modes of OBD2 are: 

1) Data stream

2) Freeze frame

3) Read diagnostic trouble codes

4) Clear diagnostic trouble codes 

5) Read vehicle information 

6) Read pending codes

7) Read permanent diagnostic trouble codes 

8) Read manufacturer-specific data 

9) Read emissions-related data 

10) Read anti-lock brake system data

Is it OK to erase DTC codes?

It’s generally not recommended to erase DTC codes until the underlying problem is properly diagnosed and resolved, otherwise, the code will likely reappear.

How many OBD2 codes are there?

There are thousands of different OBD2 codes. The exact number can vary by vehicle make and model.

Is OBD and OBD2 the same?

OBD (on-board diagnostics) refers to the predecessor to the newer OBD2 system. OBD2 is a more advanced, standardized diagnostics system.

Can You Read OBD Codes Without a Scanner?

Most OBD2 vehicles will display simple generic codes without a scanner by flashing the check engine light on the vehicle’s dashboard. However, a pro-level scanner is needed to read manufacturer-specific codes.

Does the car need to be on for OBD2?

The car generally doesn’t need to be turned on for OBD2 scanners to access the diagnostic data. However, the engine typically needs to be started if you want to access advanced live data and diagnostics.