Ensuring your heavy-duty vehicles meet California’s stringent emissions standards is crucial for fleet operations within the state. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has implemented the Clean Truck Check program, requiring periodic On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) vehicle emissions testing for heavy-duty vehicles. To comply with these regulations, it’s essential to use CARB-certified OBD test devices. This guide will help you understand the requirements and select the right Truck Obd Scanner for your needs.
Understanding CARB-Certified OBD Scanners for Trucks
Starting in 2024, California’s Heavy-Duty Inspection and Maintenance (HD I/M) Regulation, also known as Clean Truck Check, mandates the use of certified OBD test devices for periodic compliance testing. This regulation, outlined in Title 13, California Code of Regulations (CCR), Section 2196.3(a)(1) and (2), aims to improve air quality by ensuring heavy-duty vehicles operate with properly functioning emissions control systems. Only OBD scanners certified by CARB can be utilized for these mandatory checks.
This requirement ensures accuracy and reliability in emissions testing, contributing to cleaner air in California. Using a non-certified device can lead to non-compliance and potential penalties. Therefore, investing in a CARB-certified truck OBD scanner is not just about meeting regulations; it’s about contributing to a healthier environment and ensuring the longevity of your fleet’s operation in California.
The following list provides an overview of CARB-certified OBD test devices. These devices are categorized into two types: Non-Continuously Connected (NCC) devices, which are typically scan tool-type devices used for testing events on multiple vehicles, and Continuously Connected (CC) devices, which are telematics devices assigned to a single vehicle for ongoing monitoring. Both types are crucial for different operational needs and compliance strategies.
Non-Continuously Connected Truck OBD Scanners
Non-Continuously Connected (NCC) devices are ideal for workshops and fleet operators who need to perform periodic checks on various vehicles. These devices are typically handheld scan tools or computer-based systems that connect to the vehicle’s diagnostic port only when testing is required. They offer flexibility and are cost-effective for managing compliance across a fleet.
Here is a list of CARB-certified Non-Continuously Connected OBD scanners for trucks:
| EO # | Vendor / Contact Information | Non-Continuously Connected (NCC) Devices* | OBD Protocol / Port / Connector** |
|---|---|---|---|
| IM-001-0001-3 | RA CONSULTING GmbH RA Automotive Software Solutions, Inc. 1850 Research Drive, Suite 208 Troy, MI 48083 (586) 782 5121[email protected] | Silver Snap-Tool with Drewtech DrewLinQ | This device supports both 9-pin SAE J1939 and 16-pin SAE J1979 diagnostic ports. |
| IM-001-0002-3 | RA CONSULTING GmbH (see contact information above) | Silver Snap-Tool with DG Technologies DPA XL | This device supports both 9-pin SAE J1939 and 16-pin SAE J1979 diagnostic ports. |
| IM-001-0003-3 | RA CONSULTING GmbH (see contact information above) | Silver Snap-Tool with Kvaser Leaf Light HS v2 | This device supports both 9-pin SAE J1939 and 16-pin SAE J1979 diagnostic ports. |
| IM-001-0004-3 | RA CONSULTING GmbH (see contact information above) | Silver Snap-Tool with Kvaser U100 | This device supports both 9-pin SAE J1939 and 16-pin SAE J1979 diagnostic ports. |
| IM-001-0005-3 | RA CONSULTING GmbH (see contact information above) | Silver Snap-Tool with Nexiq USB-Link 2 | This device supports both 9-pin SAE J1939 and 16-pin SAE J1979 diagnostic ports. |
| IM-001-0006-3 | RA CONSULTING GmbH (see contact information above) | Silver Snap-Tool with Nexiq USB-Link 3 | This device supports both 9-pin SAE J1939 and 16-pin SAE J1979 diagnostic ports. |
| IM-001-0007-2 | RA CONSULTING GmbH (see contact information above) | Silver Snap-Tool with Kvaser Leaf v3 | This device supports both 9-pin SAE J1939 and 16-pin SAE J1979 diagnostic ports. |
| IM-002-0001-5 | HEM Data Corporation HEM Data Corporation 17320 12 Mile Road Southfield, MI 48076 (248) 559-5607[email protected] | DAWN OBD Inspector for iOS with CAN Mini Streamer (Wireless) | This device supports both 9-pin SAE J1939 and 16-pin SAE J1979 diagnostic ports. |
| IM-003-0001-5 | Noregon Systems LLC Noregon Systems LLC 7823 National Service Road Greensboro, NC 27409 (855) 906-3491 (option 3)[email protected] | Truck Check Up with DLA+ 3.0 (USB) | This device supports both 9-pin SAE J1939 and 16-pin SAE J1979 diagnostic ports. |
| IM-003-0002-5 | Noregon Systems LLC(see contact information above) | Truck Check Up with DLA+ 3.0 (Wireless) | This device supports both 9-pin SAE J1939 and 16-pin SAE J1979 diagnostic ports. |
| IM-005-0001-3 | DG Technologies DG Technologies 33604 West Eight Mile RoadFarmington Hills, MI 48335(248) 888-2000[email protected] | DPA INSPECT with DPA Classic | This device supports both 9-pin SAE J1939 and 16-pin SAE J1979 diagnostic ports. |
| IM-005-0002-3 | DG Technologies (see contact information above) | DPA INSPECT with DPA XL | This device supports both 9-pin SAE J1939 and 16-pin SAE J1979 diagnostic ports. |
| IM-005-0003-3 | DG Technologies (see contact information above) | DPA INSPECT with DPA 5 Pro | This device supports both 9-pin SAE J1939 and 16-pin SAE J1979 diagnostic ports. |
| IM-008-0001-3 | Opus Inspection, Inc. Opus Inspection, Inc.3225 Gateway Road Suite 450Brookfield, WI 53045(855) 766-4323[email protected] | Opus Clean Truck with Opus CleanTruck OBD Device Kit | This device supports both 9-pin SAE J1939 and 16-pin SAE J1979 diagnostic ports. |
Continuously Connected Truck OBD Scanners
Continuously Connected (CC) devices offer real-time monitoring and ongoing compliance verification. These telematics devices are permanently installed in the vehicle and continuously transmit data, which can be beneficial for large fleets seeking proactive emissions management and streamlined reporting.
Below are the CARB-certified Continuously Connected OBD scanners for trucks:
| EO # | Vendor / Contact Information | Continuously Connected (CC) Devices* | OBD Protocol / Port / Connector** |
|---|---|---|---|
| IM-004-0001-1 | Geotab Inc. Geotab Inc. 2440 Winston Park Dr.Ontario, Canada L6H 7V2+1 (877) 436-8221[email protected] | GO9, GO9B, GO9+ family of devices. | This device supports both 9-pin SAE J1939 and 16-pin SAE J1979 diagnostic ports. |
| IM-006-0001-3 | Pacific Track, LLC Pacific Track Dan Rothman, VP Sales and Marketing(949) 432-9562[email protected] | PT40 | This device supports both 9-pin SAE J1939 and 16-pin SAE J1979 diagnostic ports. |
| IM-007-0001-1 | Zonar Systems Zonar Systems 821 2nd Avenue, Suite 1100 Seattle, WA 98104 (888) 778-6868 (#2)[email protected] | V4, V4 Base, V4 Essential, V4E-NBT, VT4 FSA, VT4, VT4 Base FSA, VT4 Base, VT4 Essential, VT4 Essential FSA, VT4E-NBT, VT4E-NBT FSA, V4 Base 2, VT4 Base 2-FSA, VT4 Base 2 | This device supports the 9-pin SAE J1939 diagnostic port. |
| IM-009-0001 | Samsara Inc. Samsara Inc. 1 De Haro St.San Francisco, CA 94103(415) 985-2400[email protected] | VG-55; VG54-NA; VG54-NAH; VG34 | This device supports the 9-pin SAE J1939 diagnostic port. |
*NCC means non-continuously connected; these scan tool-type devices can be used for testing events on multiple vehicles. CC means continuously connected; these are telematics devices that are assigned to one vehicle for on-going testing events.
** The most common protocols for Heavy-Duty/Medium-Duty vehicles are SAE J1939 and J1979. In general, vehicles with Cummins/Detroit Diesel/Navistar/Paccar engines are using the SAE J1939 connector, and vehicles with Ford/Hino/Isuzu/Volvo engines are using the SAE J1979 (or OBD II) connector.
Choosing the Right Truck OBD Scanner for Your Fleet
Selecting the appropriate truck OBD scanner depends on your fleet size, operational needs, and compliance strategy. Consider the following factors when making your choice:
- Type of Device (NCC vs. CC): For periodic inspections and smaller fleets, NCC devices offer a flexible and cost-effective solution. For larger fleets seeking continuous monitoring and streamlined compliance, CC devices provide real-time data and automated reporting.
- OBD Protocols and Connectors: Ensure the scanner supports the OBD protocols and connectors used in your vehicles. As noted, SAE J1939 is common in vehicles with Cummins, Detroit Diesel, Navistar, or Paccar engines, while SAE J1979 (OBD II) is often found in Ford, Hino, Isuzu, and Volvo engines. Most listed devices support both 9-pin and 16-pin connectors, offering broad compatibility.
- Features and Functionality: Beyond basic OBD scanning for emissions compliance, some devices offer additional features such as data logging, advanced diagnostics, and integration with fleet management software. Evaluate your needs to determine if these extra features are beneficial.
- Vendor Support and Purchase: Reach out directly to the listed vendors to inquire about device features, pricing, and purchasing options. Building a relationship with a reputable vendor can ensure ongoing support and updates as CARB regulations evolve.
Disclaimer: This list is based on the latest information from the California Air Resources Board and is subject to change as new devices are certified. Always verify the latest certification status with CARB and the device vendors.
By understanding the CARB Clean Truck Check program and the available certified OBD scanner options, you can ensure your fleet remains compliant, contributes to cleaner air, and operates efficiently in California.
