Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: TPMS • Camshaft • Direct Injection

OBD-II

Term from Automotive Repair industry explained for recruiters

OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics Second Generation) is a standard car computer system that helps mechanics identify problems in vehicles made after 1996. Think of it like a car's health monitoring system - it tracks how different parts of the car are working and reports problems through error codes. When someone brings their car to a repair shop, mechanics plug a special scanner into the car's OBD-II port (usually under the dashboard) to read these codes and figure out what's wrong. This system is required in all cars sold in the United States since 1996, making it an essential tool for modern automotive diagnosis and repair.

Examples in Resumes

Performed vehicle diagnostics using OBD-II scanning tools on various vehicle makes and models

Interpreted OBD-II codes to accurately diagnose and repair engine management systems

Led training sessions on OBD-II diagnostic procedures for junior mechanics

Upgraded shop's OBD scanning equipment to handle newer vehicle models

Typical job title: "Automotive Diagnostic Technicians"

Also try searching for:

Automotive Technician Auto Mechanic Diagnostic Specialist Vehicle Service Technician Auto Service Technician Automotive Repair Technician

Where to Find Automotive Diagnostic Technicians

Professional Organizations

Online Forums

Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you diagnose a vehicle that has multiple OBD-II codes showing at once?

Expected Answer: A senior technician should explain their systematic approach to identifying the root cause, starting with the most severe or primary codes, and understanding how one issue might trigger multiple codes. They should mention checking Technical Service Bulletins and their experience with similar patterns.

Q: What steps do you take when dealing with an intermittent check engine light that doesn't store codes?

Expected Answer: Should discuss using freeze frame data, setting up monitoring conditions, and performing thorough system checks. Should mention experience with various diagnostic tools and manufacturer-specific testing procedures.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What's the difference between a pending code and a permanent code?

Expected Answer: Should explain that pending codes are potential issues that haven't triggered the check engine light yet, while permanent codes indicate confirmed problems. Should be able to discuss how this affects diagnosis and repair verification.

Q: How do you approach emissions-related OBD-II codes?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of emissions systems, common causes of failures, and the relationship between various sensors. Should mention the importance of complete system checks before replacing parts.

Junior Level Questions

Q: Where is the OBD-II port typically located in a vehicle?

Expected Answer: Should know it's usually located under the driver's side dashboard and be able to explain how to access it safely. Should also mention that some vehicles might have slightly different locations.

Q: What basic tools do you need to perform OBD-II diagnostics?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe basic OBD-II scanners, when to use basic vs. advanced scanners, and the importance of keeping diagnostic tools updated.