Whois & Analysis for obd-codes.com

A malfunction indicator lamp (MIL), also known as a check engine light, is a tell-tale to indicate malfunction of a computerized engine-management system.

It is found on the instrument panel of most automobiles.

When illuminated, it is typically either an amber or red color.

On vehicles equipped with OBD-II, the light has two stages: steady (indicating a minor fault such as a loose gas cap or failing oxygen sensor) and flashing (indicating a severe fault, that could potentially damage the catalytic converter if left uncorrected for an extended period).

When the MIL is lit, the engine control unit stores a fault code related to the malfunction, which can be retrieved with a scan tool and used for further diagnosis.

The diagnosis may be retrieved without a scan tool in some car models.

The malfunction indicator lamp usually bears the legend, or a pictogram of an engine.

In the United States, specific functions are required of the MIL by EPA regulations.

On-board diagnostics (OBD) is an automotive term referring to a vehicle's self-diagnostic and reporting capability.

OBD systems give the vehicle owner or repair technician access to the status of the various vehicle subsystems.

The amount of diagnostic information available via OBD has varied widely since its introduction in the early 1980s versions of on-board vehicle computers.

Early versions of OBD would simply illuminate a malfunction indicator light or "idiot light" if a problem was detected but would not provide any information as to the nature of the problem.

Modern OBD implementations use a standardized digital communications port to provide real-time data in addition to a standardized series of diagnostic trouble codes, or DTCs, which allow one to rapidly identify and remedy malfunctions within the vehicle.

Direct-to-consumer advertising (DTC advertising) usually refers to the marketing of pharmaceutical products but also applies to the direct marketing of medical devices, consumer diagnostics and sometimes financial services.

This form of advertising is directed toward patients, rather than healthcare professionals.

The Food and Drug Administration is responsible for regulating DTC advertising in the United States.

The FDA’s latest version of guidelines, though still in draft form, for pharmaceutical drug advertising was updated in 2009.

Forms of DTC advertising include TV, print, radio and other mass and social media.

There are ethical and regulatory concerns regarding DTC advertising, specifically the extent to which these ads may unduly influence the prescribing of the prescription medicines based on consumer demands when, in some cases, they may not be medically necessary.