What is an OBD Port + Location (with Pictures)

The OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) port is a 16-pin connector that allows you to connect an OBD scanner to your car. This connection lets you communicate with the car’s onboard diagnostic system, retrieve fault codes, and access various vehicle data.

Does Your Car Have an OBD Port?

• OBD1: Used before 1996, various connectors per manufacturer.
• OBD2: Standardized 16-pin connector, mandatory in the USA from 1996 for gasoline cars and from 2001 for diesels.

How to Check

If your car has a 16-pin connector, it’s likely OBD2. All gasoline cars post-1996 and diesels post-2001 should have it.

Where to Find the OBD Port?

• Under the steering wheel (left or right side)
• Center console
• Glove compartment
• Under the passenger side dashboard

Finding Your OBD Port

1. Look under the steering wheel.
2. Check the interior fuse box.
3. Refer to online resources or use apps like OBD Connector. (Best OBD2 apps)

How to Know if Your OBD Port Works?

Steps to Diagnose

1. Visually Inspect the Port: Look for damaged or bent pins.
2. Plug in the Scan Tool: Test the scan tool on another car to check if it works.
3. Use a Multimeter: Set to 20V, check pin 4 (ground) and pin 16 (battery power). You should get around 12 volts.

If Not Working

• Check for blown fuses, often shared with the cigarette lighter fuse.

How to Fix the OBD Port

Fuse Check

1. Locate Fuse Box Diagram: Find the OBD port fuse.
2. Replace the Fuse: Even if it looks fine, replace it to ensure functionality.
3. Same fuse as lighter: Can share fuse with 12V lighter, check if works
4. Measure Voltage: Is there 12V in your OBD port? Black lead pin 4, red lead pin 16.

OBD1 vs. OBD2 connector

Aspect	OBD1	OBD2
Connector	Varies by manufacturer	Standard 16-pin connector
Introduction	Before 1996	Mandatory from 1996 (gasoline)
Functionality	Basic diagnostics, brand-specific	Universal, extensive diagnostics