The California Air Resources Board (CARB) has mandated the use of certified On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) vehicle emissions testing devices as part of the Heavy-Duty Inspection and Maintenance (HD I/M) Regulation, also known as Clean Truck Check, starting in 2024. This regulation, outlined in Title 13, California Code of Regulations (CCR), Section 2196.3(a)(1) and (2), ensures that heavy-duty vehicles operating in California meet specific emissions standards. To comply with these requirements for periodic compliance tests, it is crucial to use only CARB-certified OBD test devices.
This article provides a comprehensive list of CARB-certified OBD2 scan tools currently approved for use in the Clean Truck Check program. Whether you are a fleet owner, vehicle operator, or maintenance professional, understanding which tools are certified is essential for maintaining compliance and avoiding penalties.
For those seeking to purchase CARB-certified OBD test devices, we recommend reaching out directly to the listed vendors. Please note that this list is dynamic and subject to updates as more devices complete the CARB certification process. We will keep this resource updated to reflect the latest certifications.
Understanding OBD Protocols for Volvo/Mack Trucks (SAE J1979-2 / OBDonUDS)
For specific guidance on testing Volvo and Mack trucks that utilize the SAE J1979-2 (OBDonUDS) Protocol, CARB provides detailed information. You can access this guidance by Clicking Here for in-depth information about testing vehicles with the J1979-2 (OBDonUDS) Protocol.
Non-Continuously Connected OBD2 Scan Tools
Non-Continuously Connected (NCC) devices are designed for testing events on multiple vehicles. These scan tool-type devices are ideal for workshops and inspection stations that handle a variety of vehicles. Below is a list of CARB-certified Non-Continuously Connected OBD2 scan tools:
| 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-008-0001-1 | 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 OBD2 Telematics Devices
Continuously Connected (CC) devices are telematics systems designed for ongoing vehicle monitoring and testing. These devices are typically assigned to a single vehicle for continuous emissions tracking. Here are the CARB-certified Continuously Connected OBD2 devices:
| 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-006-0001-2 | 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 OBD2 Scan Tool for Clean Truck Check
Selecting the appropriate OBD2 scan tool depends on your specific needs and operations. For businesses requiring mobile diagnostic capabilities across different vehicles, Non-Continuously Connected devices offer flexibility and efficiency. These tools are brought to the vehicle for testing and can be used across an entire fleet.
On the other hand, Continuously Connected devices provide real-time monitoring and ongoing compliance tracking. These telematics solutions are ideal for fleet management and ensuring continuous adherence to emissions standards. They offer the advantage of constant data collection and reporting, streamlining compliance and potentially offering insights into vehicle performance and maintenance needs.
Understanding OBD Protocols: SAE J1939 and SAE J1979
It’s important to note the OBD protocols supported by each device. The listed tools primarily support SAE J1939 and SAE J1979.
- SAE J1939: Commonly used in heavy-duty vehicles, particularly those with engines from manufacturers like Cummins, Detroit Diesel, Navistar, and Paccar. This protocol typically utilizes a 9-pin connector.
- SAE J1979 (or OBD II): Often found in medium-duty and some heavy-duty vehicles, including those with Ford, Hino, Isuzu, and Volvo engines. This protocol generally uses a 16-pin connector.
Most of the CARB-certified tools listed are versatile and support both protocols, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of heavy and medium-duty vehicles. Always verify the specifications of each device to ensure it meets the needs of your specific vehicle types.
Stay Updated with CARB Regulations
The information provided here is based on the latest data from CARB. However, regulations and certified device lists can change. It is essential to regularly check the official CARB website and resources for the most up-to-date information and any changes to the Clean Truck Check program and certified OBD device requirements. Contacting the device vendors directly will also provide you with the most current product details and purchasing information.
By using CARB-certified OBD2 scan tools, you ensure compliance with California’s stringent emissions regulations, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment.
