Section A: Understanding On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) Systems and Your 2015 Ford 6.7L
For mechanics and vehicle owners alike, understanding the intricacies of On-Board Diagnostic (OBD) systems is crucial, especially when dealing with powerful diesel engines like the 2015 Ford 6.7L Powerstroke. This guide provides a detailed overview of OBD systems, focusing specifically on the diagnostic procedures and software considerations relevant to your 2015 Ford 6.7L and similar vehicles. This information will be invaluable whether you are preparing for a Smog Check inspection or troubleshooting engine performance issues.
The OBD system is essentially the health monitor of your vehicle. It continuously checks the performance of various engine and emission control components. When it detects a problem, it stores a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) and may illuminate the Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL), commonly known as the “Check Engine” light. For vehicles like the 2015 Ford 6.7L, equipped with sophisticated emission control systems to manage diesel combustion byproducts, a properly functioning OBD system is essential for both performance and regulatory compliance.
This document serves as a reference for understanding OBD test standards and navigating potential test difficulties, especially concerning software and communication issues. It is designed to replace previous, less comprehensive guides and provides up-to-date information relevant to OBD inspections.
Section B: Revision History and Key Updates for OBD Testing Standards
| Number | Section | Description | Revision Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0 | N/A | Original document creation. | 09/1/2015 |
| 2.0 | F | Added Section F: BAR-97 Vehicles of Interest, expanding coverage for older vehicle OBD testing. | 01/22/2016 |
| 2.1 | C, E | Introduced Permanent Diagnostic Trouble Code (PDTC) standards and added Section E: PDTC Vehicles of Interest, reflecting stricter emission control monitoring. | 04/26/2019 |
| 3.0 | E | Converted document to HTML format for accessibility. Updated Table 3 and Table 3.5 titles to Table 3a and Table 3b respectively for clarity. Revised cause and instruction details for Chrysler, Dodge, Freightliner, Jeep, Mercedes, and Ram in Table 6, reflecting updated diagnostic knowledge. | 09/8/2020 |
| 3.1 | D | Added specific Ford models: 2020, 2021 Ford Escape and Lincoln Corsair (non-hybrid, excluding type S trim), indicating ongoing updates based on vehicle-specific issues. | 12/21/2020 |
| 3.2 | D | Expanded Ford model coverage: Added 2021 Ford Bronco Sport (all gasoline engines, non-hybrid) and 2020–2021 Ford E Series (all gasoline engines). Removed 2021 E/F 350 Cutaway & E/F 450 Stripped Chassis, demonstrating refinement in vehicle-specific OBD guidance. | 05/21/2021 |
| 3.3 | D | Further refined Ford E Series coverage: Added 2021, 2022 Ford E 350 (all gasoline engines, non-hybrid). Deleted 2020 – 2021 Ford E Series, reflecting precise model year applicability. | 07/14/2021 |
| 3.4 | D | Updated information for 2020, 2021 Ford Escape and Lincoln Corsair, ensuring the most current guidance. | 09/8/2021 |
| 4.0 | N/A | Introduced modified software standards, a critical update for modern OBD testing. Updated reference formatting for improved readability. | 09/10/2021 |
| 4.1 | D | Added 2021, 2022 Ford E450 to the vehicle list, continuing to expand model-specific coverage. | 09/21/2021 |
| 4.2 | D | Updated guidance for 2020-2021 Ford Escape/Lincoln Corsair, 2021 Ford Bronco Sport, and 2021-2022 Econoline E-Series, highlighting iterative improvements in diagnostic procedures. | 02/10/2022 |
| 4.3 | C, D | Revised incomplete monitor standards for 2007 and newer diesel vehicles, specifying “Particulate Filter and NMHC” instead of “any two.” Added vehicles with exhaust gas sensor and NOx aftertreatment system monitor readiness issues, reflecting advancements in diesel emission technology and testing. | 07/05/2023 |
| 4.4 | D, F | Updated model year coverage for Ford Escape, Bronco Sport, E350, E450, F-650, F-750, Corsair, F-53 Motorhome, and F-59 Commercial Stripped Chassis (2020-2023). Added link to SSM 50974 for further technical details. | 09/11/2023 |
| 4.5 | D | Updated Chevrolet Express and Dodge Ram ProMaster (2014–2019). Added GMC Savana recall information, demonstrating ongoing monitoring of vehicle-specific issues and recalls. | 11/02/2023 |
| 4.6 | D | Updated 2015–2019 Ford Transit, directly relevant for users interested in vehicles like the 2015 Ford 6.7L (though engine size may vary in Transit models). | 11/08/2023 |
| 4.7 | D | Further updated Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana, Dodge Ram ProMaster, and Ford Transit (2014-2019) entries, ensuring comprehensive coverage of recent vehicle issues. | 11/23/2023 |
| 4.8 | D | Expanded Dodge/Ram diesel coverage, including 2011-2014 Dodge/Ram 3500 6.7L diesel and added 2010-2015 Dodge/Ram 2500/3500 6.7L diesel, directly relevant to diesel engine diagnostics. | 12/23/2023 |
| 4.9 | E | Broadened Permanent Diagnostic Trouble Code (PDTC) vehicle list, including Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram models (2010-2019), enhancing PDTC diagnostic guidance. | 01/24/2024 |
| 5.0 | D | Updated Jaguar and Land Rover entries (2017-2019), addressing NOx aftertreatment readiness issues with 2.0 and 3.0 liter diesels, important for European diesel engine diagnostics. | 03/14/2024 |
| 6.0 | D | Added 2025 and newer Ford Explorer models and OBD Test bypass for OBDonUDS vehicles, showing adaptation to newer communication protocols. | 09/21/2024 |
| 7.0 | D | Edited 2015–2019 Ford Transit (diesel) and added 2013-2016 Ford F Series Super Duty 6.7L (diesel). Introduced Exhaust Gas Sensor readiness bypass, directly relevant to 2015 Ford 6.7L and similar diesel engines. | 10/05/2024 |
This revision history highlights the continuous evolution of OBD testing standards and the ongoing effort to address vehicle-specific issues, including software-related problems and readiness monitor complexities. For owners and technicians working with a 2015 Ford 6.7L diesel, understanding these updates is essential for accurate diagnostics and successful Smog Checks.
Section C: Pass/Fail Standards for the OBD Test Portion of a Smog Check Inspection
Passing a Smog Check inspection hinges on meeting specific OBD test standards. These standards ensure that a vehicle’s emission control systems are functioning correctly. For a 2015 Ford 6.7L, understanding these criteria is vital for avoiding unexpected failures.
Readiness Monitor Standards
Readiness monitors are self-diagnostic tests run by the vehicle’s OBD system to confirm the functionality of emission control components. These monitors need to be completed before a vehicle can pass the OBD portion of a Smog Check. While many vehicles complete these tests during normal driving, some, including certain diesel models, may require specific driving conditions or have inherent difficulties in completing all monitors. Sometimes, drive cycle procedures to complete monitors are found in the owner’s manual, but more often, this information is in OEM or repair industry service literature. Dynamometers can be useful for performing drive cycles under controlled conditions when road conditions are unsuitable. Properly functioning components are crucial for monitor completion; diagnosis and repair are necessary if monitors remain incomplete. After any repair or battery disconnection, readiness monitors will need to be rerun.
The allowable number of incomplete readiness monitors for passing a Smog Check OBD test is defined by vehicle model year and fuel type:
| Model Year | Fuel Type | Number of Incomplete Monitors Allowed to Pass OBD Test¹ |
|---|---|---|
| 1996-1999 | Gas² | Any one³ |
| 2000 and newer | Gas² | Evaporative system³ |
| 1998-2006 | Diesel | Zero |
| 2007 and newer | Diesel | Particulate Filter and Non-Methane HydroCarbon (NMHC)⁴ |
¹ Implemented May 4, 2015.
² “Gas” includes gasoline, propane, natural gas (CNG, LNG, LPG).
³ The misfire, fuel, and comprehensive component continuous monitors are ignored during an OBD test on “gas” vehicles.
⁴ Implemented July 5, 2023. This is particularly important for 2015 Ford 6.7L diesels as they fall under this category.
For a 2015 Ford 6.7L diesel, it’s critical to ensure that the Particulate Filter and NMHC monitors are complete before a Smog Check. Incomplete monitors beyond these will result in a failed test.
Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) Standards
The Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL), or “Check Engine” light, is a primary indicator of OBD system status. MIL behavior is a key factor in OBD test pass/fail criteria:
| Vehicle | Pass/Fail | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| All with OBDII | Pass | MIL illuminates when key on engine off (KOEO). |
| All with OBDII | Pass | MIL turns off when engine running (KOER). |
| All with OBDII | Fail | MIL does not illuminate when key on engine off (KOEO). |
| All with OBDII | Fail | MIL illuminates when engine running (KOER). |
For your 2015 Ford 6.7L, the MIL should light up briefly when the ignition is turned to the “ON” position before starting the engine (KOEO) and then turn off once the engine is running (KOER). Any deviation from this pattern will result in an OBD test failure.
Communication Standards
Successful OBD testing requires proper communication between the diagnostic tool and the vehicle’s computer. Communication failure can arise from several sources, including connector damage, wiring issues, aftermarket stereo installations interfering with the OBD port, or incorrect computer responses.
Vehicle communication standards for OBD tests are as follows:
| Vehicle | BAR-97/OIS | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| All with OBDII | BAR-97 | Vehicle communicates with BAR-97. |
| All with OBDII | OIS | Vehicle communicates with OIS and transmits required data.¹ |
¹ Required data typically includes data from OBD addresses: Mode $01 PID $00 (identifies supported data) and Mode $01 PID $01 (returns MIL status, DTCs, and monitor status).
When testing a 2015 Ford 6.7L, ensure a stable and reliable communication link with the OBD system. Failure to communicate will result in a failed OBD test, regardless of other system statuses.
Permanent Diagnostic Trouble Code (PDTC) Standards
Since July 1, 2019, Smog Checks include a check for Permanent Diagnostic Trouble Codes (PDTCs). PDTCs are similar to regular DTCs but cannot be erased by standard methods like scan tools or battery disconnection. They clear only when the OBD II system verifies the fault is no longer present.
PDTC standards are applied as follows:
| Model Year | BAR-97/OIS | Standard |
|---|---|---|
| 1996-1999 | BAR-97 | Not applicable. |
| 2000-2009 | OIS | Not applicable. |
| 2010 and newer ¹ | OIS | Vehicles fail when a PDTC is present. ²,³,⁴,⁵ |
¹ Some 2010 vehicles may not support PDTCs and are exempt from this check.
² A vehicle with a PDTC fails regardless of MIL status.
³ PDTC presence is ignored if the vehicle has completed 15+ warm-up cycles and 200+ miles since the last OBD data clear (verified by Mode $01 PID $30 and $31).
⁴ Certain vehicles have known issues clearing PDTCs; these are being addressed with manufacturers.
⁵ Manufacturers have issued extended warranties, recalls, and repair campaigns for some PDTC-related issues. Refer motorists to dealers for covered repairs.
A 2015 Ford 6.7L will fail a Smog Check if any PDTCs are present. It’s crucial to address and resolve the underlying issues causing PDTCs before inspection. Note the exceptions regarding warm-up cycles and mileage, which might allow a vehicle to pass despite a PDTC under specific conditions.
Modified Software Standards
Since July 19, 2021, Smog Checks also include a check for modified software. Software modifications not approved by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) will cause a vehicle to fail.
Vehicles with illegally modified software will fail the Smog Check, with “Modified Software” noted on the vehicle inspection report. To pass, the software must be restored to an OEM-approved or CARB-approved configuration. Retesting can be done at any licensed Smog Check station unless directed to a Referee or STAR station by BAR. Consumers disputing results can contact the Smog Check Referee.
For 2015 Ford 6.7L owners, ensure that the engine control software is the original, OEM-approved version or a CARB-approved update. Aftermarket “tunes” or modifications can lead to a Smog Check failure due to modified software.
Section D: OIS Vehicles of Interest: Specific OBD Issues and Solutions
This section details gasoline, flex-fuel (model-year 2000 and newer), and diesel (model-year 1998 and newer) vehicles known to have OBD testing issues during an OIS inspection. These issues range from communication failures and incomplete readiness monitors to OBD test incompatibility and false MIL illumination. In many cases, the OIS system is programmed to accommodate design anomalies; in others, vehicle repair is necessary.
While the 2015 Ford 6.7L itself isn’t explicitly listed for unique issues across all categories in this section, understanding the types of problems highlighted for other Ford models and similar diesel vehicles can be insightful. Notably, Ford vehicles are mentioned concerning communication issues and exhaust gas sensor monitor completion, which could potentially be relevant to the 6.7L diesel as well, although specific software or OBD issues related directly to “2015 Ford 6.7 Obd2 Software” are not detailed here.
Here’s a table summarizing vehicle-specific OBD issues and recommended actions, including entries for Ford vehicles and issues relevant to diesel engines:
| Make | Year | Model Engine (L); Fuel Type | Issue | Cause and Possible Remedy | Instruction to Inspector |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audi | 2000-2004 | A4 & A6 | Fail for no OBD communication. | Broken ground bond wire in ABS module. | Repair per Audi TSB #A45-15-10. |
| BMW | 6/1/99 – 7/31/00 | 323i Sedan | Oxygen sensors readiness monitor not set. | DME Software error. Reprogram DME with updated software. | Check DME “programmed control unit” number per TSB #SI B12 16 16. |
| … | … | … | … | … | … |
| Ford | 2013-2016 | F series, Super Duty 6.7L (diesel) | Exhaust Gas Sensor monitor will not complete. | After DOC or DPF replacement, EGS monitor needs 6,000 to 10,000 miles to complete (“degreening”). | OIS ignores incomplete EGS monitor on specific VINs (DOC/DPF replaced after 1/1/2022). Expires 10/8/2025. |
| Ford | 2015-2019 | Transit 3.2L (diesel) | Exhaust Gas Sensor monitor will not complete. | Similar to Super Duty 6.7L, EGS monitor needs “degreening” after DOC/DPF replacement. | OIS ignores incomplete EGS monitor on specific VINs (DOC/DPF replaced after 1/1/2022). Expires 10/8/2025. |
| Ford | 2020-2022 | Escape; all engines; Gasoline and hybrid | Might not communicate with BAR-OIS. | Software issue in gateway module. Software update available (SSM 50974). | Direct to Ford dealership for software update if no communication. |
| Ford | 2021-2023 | E350, E450; all engines; Gasoline (not hybrid) | Might not communicate with BAR-OIS. | Software issue in gateway module. Software update available (SSM 50974). | Direct to Ford dealership for software update if no communication. |
| Ford | 2025 and newer | Explorer (2.3L) AWD, RWD. | Fail for no OBD communication. | Vehicle has OBDonUDS. DAD 1.0 units incompatible. | Cal-VIS skips OBD test until DAD 2.0 units are BAR certified. |
| … | … | … | … | … | … |
| Dodge/Ram | 2010-2015 | 2500 & 3500 6.7L (diesel) | NOx after-treatment monitor will not complete. | Vehicle design anomaly. | OIS temporarily allows NOx after-treatment monitor to be incomplete until remedy is available. |
| Dodge/Ram | 2014 | ProMaster 2500 & 3500 High 3.0L (diesel) | Exhaust Gas Sensor monitor will not complete. | Vehicle design anomaly. Recalls V97 and ZC0 required. | Perform recall reflash then retest. |
| Dodge/Ram | 2015 | ProMaster 1500, 2500, & 3500 High & Standard 3.0L (diesel) | Exhaust Gas Sensor monitor will not complete. | Vehicle design anomaly. Recalls V97 and ZC0 required. | Perform recall reflash then retest. |
| Dodge/Ram | 2016 | ProMaster 2500 & 3500 High 3.0L (diesel) | Exhaust Gas Sensor monitor will not complete. | Vehicle design anomaly. Recall V97 required. | Perform recall reflash then retest. |
| … | … | … | … | … | … |
Understanding the location of the OBD-II port is the first step in diagnostics for your 2015 Ford 6.7L.
For 2015 Ford 6.7L diesel owners, pay close attention to the entries concerning Ford Super Duty and Transit diesel models. While not explicitly a 6.7L Transit, the shared diesel technology means similar OBD system behaviors and potential issues might be encountered. The Exhaust Gas Sensor monitor issue, especially after DPF or DOC replacement, is particularly relevant. Also, while less directly related to the 6.7L engine itself, the communication issues noted in newer Ford models (Escape, E-Series, Explorer) highlight that software and gateway module problems can affect OBD communication in Ford vehicles generally.
Section E: Permanent Diagnostic Trouble Code Vehicles of Interest
This section lists vehicles known to have issues with Permanent Diagnostic Trouble Codes (PDTCs) that may not clear as expected, leading to potential Smog Check failures.
While the 2015 Ford 6.7L is not specifically listed here, understanding these issues in other makes and models is valuable context for OBD diagnostics. Noticeably, several Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram models are listed with PDTC issues often resolved by software reflashes, indicating that software glitches can be a common cause of PDTC problems.
| Make | Year | Model Engine (L); Fuel Type | Issue | Cause and Possible Remedy | Instructions to Inspector |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audi | 2010 | Q7; 3.0 (TDI/diesel) | Permanent Fault Codes P0087, P0088, and P053F will not clear. | No remedy available. | BAR-OIS ignores these codes. |
| Chrysler | 2011-2015 | 200; 2.4, 3.6 | Permanent Fault Codes will not clear. | Reflash per Recall V51. | Reflash then retest. |
| Chrysler | 2017-2019 | Pacifica Hybrid | Vehicle fails for PDTC C2200 or B22A9-00. | Reflash modules per TSB 08-005-21, 08-006-21, 08-008-21, 08-009-21, 08-011-21, and 08-012-21. | Reflash then retest. |
| … | … | … | … | … | … |
| Ford | 2011-2014 | Mustang; 3.7 & 5.0 (gasoline) | Vehicle fails for Permanent Fault Code P0315. | Vehicle not self-clearing PDTC. | Refer to Ford Customer Satisfaction Program 17N01. |
| … | … | … | … | … | … |
| Freightliner | 2014-2015 | Sprinter 2500 Sprinter 3500 (diesel) | Vehicle fails for Permanent Fault Codes P202A, P203A, P208A, P20B9, P20BD, P20BE or P20FA. | Vehicle not self-clearing PDTC. | BAR-OIS ignores these codes. |
| … | … | … | … | … | … |
| Ram | 2014-2017 | 1500 (diesel) | Vehicle fails for Permanent Fault Code P1D30. | Vehicle not self-clearing PDTC. | BAR-OIS ignores this code. |
| … | … | … | … | … | … |
Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is essential for reading Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) on your 2015 Ford 6.7L.
Although the 2015 Ford 6.7L isn’t directly mentioned for PDTC issues, the Ford Mustang entry indicates that Ford vehicles can also experience problems with PDTC clearing. This reinforces the importance of addressing any DTCs, including permanent ones, before a Smog Check on your 2015 Ford 6.7L.
Section F: BAR-97 EIS Vehicles of Interest: OBD Issues in Older Models
This section addresses OBD monitor readiness issues in older vehicles (model-year 1996-1999) during BAR-97 EIS inspections. These older systems often have different OBD implementation levels compared to newer vehicles like the 2015 Ford 6.7L.
This section is less directly relevant to a 2015 Ford 6.7L, which uses a much more advanced OBD-II system. However, understanding the historical context of OBD issues in older vehicles can provide a broader perspective on the evolution of automotive diagnostic systems. It highlights that early OBD systems also had software and design limitations that affected monitor completion and testing.
| Make | Year | Model Engine (L); Fuel Type | Issue | Cause and Possible Remedy | Instructions to Inspector |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMW | 1996 | 7-Series, 8-Series 5.0L, 5.4L | Monitors difficult to complete. | EIS ignores readiness status. | Test as normal. |
| Chrysler | 1996 | Cirrus, Concord, LHS Sebring Convertible | All monitors reset to incomplete upon every ignition key-off. | Recall campaign #678/TSB #18-005-01 (lifetime warranty). | Comply with recall/TSB, then test. |
| Dodge | 1996 | Stealth 3.0L | All monitors reset to incomplete upon every ignition key-off. | Not reflashable. | EIS ignores readiness status. |
| Ford | 2020-2022 | F-53 Motorhome, F-59 Commercial Stripped Chassis; Gasoline (not hybrid) | May fail for no OBD communication. | Software issue in gateway module (SSM 50974). | Direct to Ford dealership for software update if no communication. |
| Ford | 2021-2023 | F-650, F-750; all engines; Gasoline (not hybrid) | May fail for no OBD communication. | Software issue in gateway module (SSM 50974). | Direct to Ford dealership for software update if no communication. |
| … | … | … | … | … | … |
| Saab | 1996-1998 | All models | Catalyst and evaporative system monitors difficult to complete. | Saab Service Instruction No. 248-9037 (drive cycle). | Comply with TSB, then test. |
| Subaru | 1996 | All models | Readiness cleared at key-off. | EIS ignores readiness status. | Test as normal. |
| Toyota | 1996-1997 | Tercel, Paseo | Evaporative system monitor never completes/unsupported. | EIS allows one incomplete monitor. | Test as normal. |
| VW | 1997-1999 | Passat | May fail for no OBD communication. | Broken ground bond wire in ABS module (VW TSB #45 15 01). | Repair and retest. |
Always check the Vehicle Emission Control Information (VECI) label for crucial emission system details relevant to your 2015 Ford 6.7L.
While the Ford entries in this section are for much newer vehicles (2020+ F-Series Motorhome/Chassis), their inclusion highlights a recurring theme: software issues affecting OBD communication in Ford vehicles. This reinforces the importance of keeping the software in your 2015 Ford 6.7L updated and addressing any communication problems promptly.
Conclusion: Ensuring OBD Compliance for Your 2015 Ford 6.7L and Beyond
Understanding your 2015 Ford 6.7L’s OBD system and its software is essential for maintaining vehicle health, ensuring emission compliance, and passing Smog Checks. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of OBD testing standards, common issues, and vehicle-specific considerations.
For your 2015 Ford 6.7L:
- Readiness Monitors: Ensure Particulate Filter and NMHC monitors are complete.
- MIL Function: Verify correct MIL operation (KOEO and KOER).
- Communication: Maintain a reliable OBD communication link.
- PDTCs: Address and clear any Permanent Diagnostic Trouble Codes.
- Software: Confirm OEM or CARB-approved software configuration.
By adhering to these guidelines and staying informed about OBD system updates and vehicle-specific issues, you can confidently navigate diagnostics and Smog Checks for your 2015 Ford 6.7L, ensuring optimal performance and regulatory compliance. Regular OBD system checks using appropriate diagnostic software and tools are recommended as part of routine vehicle maintenance.
