Use your Code Wisely
2016-04-20 18:13:00Just knowing what the OBD Code is will not get your problem solved. It's a great starting point, but if you get a code telling you there is an emission
controls problem, it's not wise to dive in and start replacing expensive components based on a general code. If you get a very specific error code like
oxygen sensor left bank, you can be pretty sure that you need to check the wiring that goes to that O2 sensor and, if it checks out, replace the sensor.
Some codes only indicate a temporary condition that may or may not ever repeat itself. If you forget to fully tighten your gas cap, this can cause an
evaporative emissions code. Tighten the cap and it's fixed! But the same code can indicate a faulty gas cap, or a leak in your fuel filler area, or a leak
at the charcoal canister. It would be wasteful to replace your gas cap, then replumb and replace the charcoal canister prematurely. For more
information on where these codes come from and what you're supposed to do with them, check out the On Board Diagnostics introduction.