Serial Data Bus Diagnostics Archives - UnderhoodService
OBDII Connectors

OBDII connectors serve as the main communication point between the technician and the vehicle.

CAN Bus Communications

There are three types of bus configurations that you will come in contact with — loop, star and a hybrid of both.

Understanding The Function Of Serial Data Buses

Serial data buses help to eliminate multiple sensors and wiring. One sensor can share information with multiple modules without having to connect directly to the multiple modules.

Communication Breakdown: Diagnosing Networks

If serial data buses did not exist, a wiring harness would have to be five times its normal size and use twice as many sensors to deliver the same level of functionality and safety we see in the modern vehicle. For example, take a brake pedal sensor. On a modern vehicle, the position of the brake pedal is used by the shift interlock, ABS, cruise control, traction control, brake lights and electric parking brake. If each system required its own switch and wiring, the complexity of the wiring harness and switches would be a diagnostic nightmare.