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An average luxury car contains more than 50 sensors connected, to over 28 microprocessors, through multiple communication networks. What makes these complex machines diagnosable at a dealership, is the ability of sophisticated diagnostics algorithms. Besides use of diagnostics in service, diagnosing a failure is also key for functional safety and vehicle availability. Safety related diagnostic functions such as loss of Brake fluid and leaky fuel system detection are critical. Once a failure is detected, Vehicle availability functions extend vehicle operation, so that one could reach the dealership without being stranded. The number of failure modes in a car could far exceed tens of thousands, thereby identifying key failure modes that require diagnostics can be a challenge.

This paper presents a comprehensive overview of Brazilian On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) regulations, Inspection and Maintenance (I/M) Programs and Aftermarket Catalyst regulations as well as an overview of similar regulations in the United States and Europe. Opportunities and technical risks are described in this context. Regulatory information contained in this Paper is intended to serve as reference only. Updated and complete rules and regulations must be used for official purposes. The implementation of the second stage of Brazilian OBD (OBDBr-2), starting in 2010, represents a significant improvement towards exhaust emission control and on-board diagnostic monitoring. Its effectiveness and credibility will be heavily influenced by how this new technology is integrated into I/M programs and how well it meshes with aftermarket catalyst regulations. Currently, Brazilian I/M regulations do not incorporate any OBD requirements and only Rio de Janeiro State has implemented an I/M Program.

Vehicle on-board diagnostics has been evolving rapidly over the last 20 years. What began as a small set manufacturer-specific tests and communication protocols has evolved into a complex, comprehensive diagnostic system able to detect literally hundreds of failures that could cause drivability concerns or emission increases. This rapid evolution has been driven, in part, by California’s OBD-II regulations as well as need for manufacturers to provide comprehensive diagnostics to allow technicians to service the complex engine and transmission controls on today’s vehicles. As the technology improves, states are relying on on-board diagnostics for Inspection/Maintenance programs in place of more costly tailpipe emission tests. The recent introduction of a standardized CAN communication link provides fast and easy access to internal control module data and opens the way for new wireless telematics technologies like prognostics and remote diagnostics.