About OpenDTC

OpenDTC is a free, no-ads lookup for OBD-II and manufacturer diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs). It is built for people who are not mechanics: every code page explains the code in plain English, how serious it usually is, common causes, and whether it is safe to keep driving.

Where the data comes from

Descriptions combine the public SAE J2012 generic code definitions with contributed diagnostic data. Vehicle and live-data tables come from the same data. This site is independent: it is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by any vehicle manufacturer, dealer, workshop chain, or tool maker. Brand names are trademarks of their owners and are shown for identification only.

Contributed data is extracted from real diagnostic files and is not perfect. Some manufacturer rows are raw, untranslated, or incomplete, and are labelled where possible. The generic SAE description is used as the fallback when no better text is available.

Generic codes and manufacturer codes

SAE J2012 is the standard list of generic OBD-II definitions: the same P0xxx, B0xxx, C0xxx and U0xxx codes mean the same thing on every OBD-II vehicle. Manufacturer-specific codes and descriptions fall outside that list. Rows taken from the standard carry an SAE badge; manufacturer rows carry a Brand badge and keep the wording and language of the source data.

How to get your codes read

You need an OBD-II scanner to read the codes stored by your car’s computer. Most auto parts stores will read them for free. On most cars the connector is under the dashboard on the driver’s side. Write the code down exactly, including letters and digits (letter O and zero are easy to mix up).

Severity levels

Each code page carries one of three levels, shown as a word as well as a colour:

• Info. The fault is logged but usually does not affect driving. Have it checked when convenient.
• Caution. The car can usually be driven, but get it checked soon and watch for changes in how it drives.
• Serious. Have it checked soon. Drive gently and stop if the car feels wrong, or straight away if the check-engine light is flashing.

Safety and accuracy

The information here is general and educational. It is not professional automotive advice and it cannot account for your specific make, model, year, or condition. Always have serious faults, airbag faults, brake faults, and flashing warning lights inspected by a qualified mechanic. For serious codes we recommend professional diagnosis rather than parts swapping.

Contact and corrections

This site has no user accounts, no tracking, and no contact form. It is a static reference; corrections and data issues are handled through the project that publishes it. See the privacy page for what the server records.

Sponsorship

OpenDTC is free to use and carries no advertising. If your company would like to sponsor the site’s hosting and development, write to opendtc.eq38v@passmail.com.