CARB To Change OBD Testing Protocol

Last week CARB announced that in October, they are changing the testing protocol from J1979-1 to J1979-2. What does this mean for you? Well if your tester is using a device / software that is using the old protocol, your test would only be valid until 12/31/2026. Even if they test on December 10, 2026, the test will not be valid and the vehicle will be noncompliant beginning on January 1, 2027.

Since we are now in the testing window for October tests, this is important for customers to understand and ask their tester what protocol they are using. I know most OBD approved devices have already applied to have their software approved by CARB for the change to J1979-2. However, CARB may not get the approvals back to them in time. As an owner, owner-operator, or fleet manager, it is imperative that we keep on top of this. CTC tests are not cheap and paying for a test that isn’t valid after January, is a waste of money.

Why is CARB making this change? Manufactures are making the changes to their OBD softwares (ECM) starting on January 1, 2027. This is a standardized change industry wide made by SAE. So, while CARB may take some of the frustration for this, this isn’t something that California has asked for. This change is just so they can continue to collect the data they already are getting.

If you follow us on social media, I frequently say, not all testers are created equally. Make sure you can trust your tester and they are knowledgeable in their profession. That knowledge can save you time and money. At Turner CTC Testing, we frequently attend CARB policy meetings and updates. This allows us to have the most up to date information to provide our customers.