What does an OBD do on a Ford Windstar?

Answer 1

The OBD acronym stands for OnBoard Diagnostics. A standardized way for communicating with the vehicle's computer system.

Another term that goes with this one is DTC: Diagnostic Trouble Code. These codes tell you what sensors are detecting strange readings - thus guiding you to trouble-shooting the *actual CAUSE* of the readings (don't automatically blame the sensor!!)

When the computer receives these strange sensor readings, it triggers a warning light on the dashboard. This light goes by a couple of different names: "Check Engine Light" or "Service Engine Soon" (of course some people just use the CEL or SES abbreviations creating yet more acronyms!)

This industry standard dates to the mid-90 with the second generation of the technology, so you will also see the term "OBD II".

In order to 'read' the DTCodes, you'll need a scanner. Many auto parts stores will read them for free (and then try and sell you something - like a totally unnecessary replacement sensor)

The next most critical step is to research the codes - the codes are trying to tell about some strange readings the computer received from a variety of sensors. The strange reading - for example "lean condition" bank1 - will help guide you to a true FIX.

Scanners are pretty affordable these days - I bought mine for about $40 from Harbor Freight.

Sidebar: these scanner do NOT read the ABS system codes. That's a different system and the scanners cost considerably more.

See "Related Questions" below for more about reading codes, buying your own scanner and the most important instruction:

Research the codes and do NOT buy a sensor until you know the sensor is really truly BAD