The second character identifies whether the fault code is a generic code or a manufacturer specific code. A generic code is the same on all OBD-II equipped vehicles no matter the manufacturer.

Check out how to read OBD-II engine codes and learn what they all mean. Get all the details here in this month's issue of Turbo & High-Tech Performance.

The primary purpose of the OBD-II connection is for emissions testing, but one of the first and most widespread applications available to consumers is the scan tool or code reader.

Plus, it has a more straightforward and standard user operation, meaning it now uses the same OBD-II port, connector, and diagnostic trouble codes for all car makes.

OBD-II diagnostic device BlueDriver interprets engine error codes to suggest what might need fixing, and lets you know if your car is ready for a smog check.

What Does Code P0442 Mean? Engine code P0442 means a small leakage in the evaporative emission control system. It is not a critical problem, but it could be annoying and cause something more serious.

OBD-II is the standard diagnostics port in cars, and it's been that way for years. When did it replace OBD-I in motorcycles? Which one does your bike have?

Instead of paying a tech to plug an OBD-II scanner into your car and tell you what's wrong with it, you can take a look at the codes first—if you have the right OBD-II scanner.

For example, current products diagnose generic trouble codes — but Voyo can read manufacturer specific codes that are typically only diagnosed via the OBD-II port at a repair shop or dealer.

From affordable diagnostics to tech-ready computers, we rounded up the best OBD-II scanners on the market with the help of our friends at the Gear Team.