The OBD2 port is your vehicle’s gateway to valuable diagnostic information, and OBD2-SCANNER.EDU.VN helps you unlock that potential. This standardized port allows you to access real-time data, troubleshoot issues, and keep your car running smoothly with the help of an OBD II scanner. Learn about the OBD2 connector, its functions, and how it contributes to overall vehicle maintenance.
Contents
- 1. What is an OBD2 Port?
- 2. Where is the OBD2 Port Located in Your Car?
- 3. What are Common OBD2 Error Codes?
- 4. What is the Role and Function of the OBD2 Port?
- 5. OBD2 Port Pinout Diagram and Meaning
- 6. OBD2 Port Pin Meaning for Various Car Brands
- 6.1. AUDI
- 6.2. ACURA
- 6.3. BMW
- 6.4. CHRYSLER
- 6.5. FORD
- 6.6. GM
- 6.7. HONDA
- 6.8. HYUNDAI
- 6.9. INFINITI
- 6.10. KIA
- 6.11. LEXUS
- 6.12. MAZDA
- 6.13. MERCEDES-BENZ
1. What is an OBD2 Port?
The OBD2 (On-Board Diagnostics II) port is a standardized interface found in most vehicles manufactured since 1996. According to a study by the University of California, Berkeley’s Institute of Transportation Studies in March 2023, OBD2 systems provide crucial data for monitoring and diagnosing vehicle health. This port allows access to your car’s computer, enabling you to read diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and monitor various performance parameters. The OBD2 port is a vital tool for understanding your vehicle’s condition and ensuring its optimal operation.
OBD2 ports offer various benefits, including:
- Emission Control: Monitors the vehicle’s emission control systems to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
- Engine Diagnostics: Provides insights into engine performance, identifying potential issues early on.
- Data Access: Allows access to a wealth of data, including sensor readings, fuel consumption, and more.
2. Where is the OBD2 Port Located in Your Car?
The OBD2 port is typically located under the dashboard on the driver’s side of the vehicle. You can usually find it near the steering column or in the vicinity of the fuse box. Locating the OBD2 port is the first step in accessing your vehicle’s diagnostic information.
Some manufacturers may place the OBD2 port in different locations, such as:
- Center Console: Located in the center console, often near the gear shift.
- Glove Compartment: Found inside the glove compartment for discreet access.
- Behind a Panel: Hidden behind a removable panel for aesthetic purposes.
3. What are Common OBD2 Error Codes?
OBD2 error codes, also known as diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), provide valuable information about potential issues with your vehicle. These codes can help you identify the source of the problem and take appropriate action. According to research by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) in June 2022, understanding these codes is crucial for effective vehicle maintenance.
Here are some common OBD2 error codes:
| Code | Description | Possible Causes |
|---|---|---|
| P0300 | Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected | Faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, fuel injectors, vacuum leaks |
| P0171 | System Too Lean (Bank 1) | Vacuum leaks, faulty oxygen sensor, low fuel pressure, dirty mass airflow sensor |
| P0420 | Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold (Bank 1) | Faulty catalytic converter, damaged oxygen sensors, exhaust leaks |
| P0442 | Evaporative Emission Control System Leak Detected (Small Leak) | Loose or damaged fuel cap, cracked hoses, faulty purge valve |
| P2769 | SHORT IN TORQUE OBD2, CONVERTER CLUTCH SOLENOID CIRCUIT | Short circuit of torque converter clutch solenoid circuit. |
| B1234 | Fault in ABS system | Sensor issues, pump malfunction, ABS control module failure. |
4. What is the Role and Function of the OBD2 Port?
The OBD2 port serves as a vital interface for accessing and interpreting your vehicle’s diagnostic data. It plays a crucial role in monitoring engine performance, diagnosing issues, and ensuring compliance with emission standards. The OBD2 port is an essential tool for both professional mechanics and car owners looking to maintain their vehicles.
The key functions of the OBD2 port include:
- Monitoring Engine Performance: The OBD2 system continuously monitors various engine parameters, such as RPM, temperature, and fuel consumption, providing real-time data on engine performance.
- Storing Error Codes: When an issue occurs, the OBD2 system records a diagnostic trouble code (DTC), which provides detailed information about the problem.
- Facilitating Diagnostics: Mechanics and car owners can use OBD2 scanners to read these error codes and diagnose the underlying issues.
- Environmental Protection: By monitoring emission control systems, the OBD2 port helps reduce harmful emissions and protect the environment.
- Early Problem Detection: The OBD2 system can detect minor issues before they become major problems, saving you from costly repairs.
- Vehicle Longevity: Regular diagnostics using the OBD2 port can help extend the life of your vehicle by ensuring timely maintenance and repairs.
- Customization: Some advanced users can use the OBD2 port to connect external devices for vehicle customization and upgrades.
5. OBD2 Port Pinout Diagram and Meaning
Understanding the OBD2 port pinout diagram can help you interpret the signals and data transmitted through each pin. The OBD2 port typically has 16 pins, each with a specific function. Standardized by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), these pins facilitate communication between the vehicle’s computer and diagnostic tools.
Here’s a table detailing the typical OBD2 port pinout and their meanings:
| Pin Number | Pin Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Manufacturer Discretion | Varies by manufacturer; not standardized. |
| 2 | SAE J1850 Bus + | Positive pin for SAE J1850 protocol, used in older GM vehicles. |
| 3 | Manufacturer Discretion | Varies by manufacturer; not standardized. |
| 4 | Chassis Ground | Ground connection for the vehicle’s chassis. |
| 5 | Signal Ground | Ground connection for signal circuits. |
| 6 | CAN High (ISO 15765-4) | High signal pin for Controller Area Network (CAN) protocol, the standard for modern vehicles. |
| 7 | ISO 9141-2 K Line | K line for ISO 9141-2 protocol, used in older European and Asian vehicles. |
| 8 | Manufacturer Discretion | Varies by manufacturer; not standardized. |
| 9 | Manufacturer Discretion | Varies by manufacturer; not standardized. |
| 10 | SAE J1850 Bus – | Negative pin for SAE J1850 protocol, used in older GM vehicles. |
| 11 | Manufacturer Discretion | Varies by manufacturer; not standardized. |
| 12 | Manufacturer Discretion | Varies by manufacturer; not standardized. |
| 13 | Manufacturer Discretion | Varies by manufacturer; not standardized. |
| 14 | CAN Low (ISO 15765-4) | Low signal pin for Controller Area Network (CAN) protocol, the standard for modern vehicles. |
| 15 | ISO 9141-2 L Line | L line for ISO 9141-2 protocol, used in older European and Asian vehicles (optional). |
| 16 | Battery Power | Positive battery voltage supply for the OBD2 scanner. |
Knowing the function of each pin can assist in troubleshooting connection issues and understanding the data being transmitted.
6. OBD2 Port Pin Meaning for Various Car Brands
While the OBD2 port is standardized, some manufacturers use certain pins for proprietary functions.
Here’s a look at some popular car brands:
6.1. AUDI
| Pin Number | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | IGN; Switched +12V when ignition is on |
| 2 | SAE J1850 Bus + (VPW / PWM) |
| 3 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 4 | Chassis Ground |
| 5 | Signal Ground |
| 6 | CAN High (ISO 15765-4 and SAE J2284) |
| 7 | ISO 9141-2 / ISO 14230-4 K Line |
| 8 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 9 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 10 | SAE J1850 Bus – (PWM only) |
| 11 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 12 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 13 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 14 | CAN Low (ISO 15765-4 and SAE J2284) |
| 15 | ISO 9141-2 / ISO 14230-4 L Line (Optional) |
| 16 | Battery Power: Type “A” 12V/4A, Type “B” 24V/2A |
6.2. ACURA
| Pin Number | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 2 | SAE J1850 Bus + (VPW / PWM) |
| 3 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 4 | Chassis Ground |
| 5 | Signal Ground |
| 6 | CAN High (ISO 15765-4 and SAE J2284) |
| 7 | ISO 9141-2 / ISO 14230-4 K Line |
| 8 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 9 | SCS (Service Check System) – diagnostic code |
| 10 | SAE J1850 Bus – (PWM only) |
| 11 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 12 | Programming out |
| 13 | Input/Output for VTM-4 and lock control |
| 14 | CAN Low (ISO 15765-4 and SAE J2284) |
| 15 | ISO 9141-2 / ISO 14230-4 L Line (Optional) |
| 16 | Battery Power: Type “A” 12V/4A, Type “B” 24V/2A |
6.3. BMW
| Pin Number | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Switched Ignition +12V Signal |
| 2 | Not Used (or unknown) |
| 3 | Ethernet RX+ |
| 4 | Chassis Ground |
| 5 | Signal Ground |
| 6 | CAN High (ISO 15765-4 and SAE J2284) (500Kbps) |
| 7 | ISO 9141-2 / ISO 14230-4 K Line (10.4Kbps) |
| 8 | Secondary K-Line to body/chassis/infotainment modules Ethernet Enable (via 510 Ohm, 0.6 Watt resistor to battery voltage) |
| 9 | TD Signal (Speed Display) / Engine Speed Signal |
| 10 | Not Used (or unknown) |
| 11 | Ethernet RX- |
| 12 | Ethernet Data Transmission+ |
| 13 | Ethernet TX- |
| 14 | CAN Low (ISO 15765-4 and SAE J2284) (500Kbps) |
| 15 | ISO 9141-2 / ISO 14230-4 L Line (10.4Kbps) (Optional) |
| 16 | Battery Power: Type “A” 12V/4A, Type “B” 24V/2A |
6.4. CHRYSLER
| Pin Number | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Not Used (or unknown) |
| 2 | SAE J1850 VPW Bus + (10.4Kbps) |
| 3 | CCD Bus + |
| 4 | Chassis Ground |
| 5 | Signal Ground |
| 6 | CAN High (ISO 15765-4 and SAE J2284) (500Kbps) Engine SCI A (RX) (SAE J2610) (7812.5bps, 62.5Kbps, 125.0Kbps) |
| 7 | ISO 9141-2 / ISO 14230-4 K Line (10.4Kbps) Engine SCI A (TX) (SAE J2610) (7812.5bps, 62.5Kbps, 125.0Kbps) Engine SCI A Trans (TX) (SAE J2610) (7812.5bps, 62.5Kbps, 125.0Kbps) Engine SCI B (TX) (SAE J2610) (7812.5bps, 62.5Kbps, 125.0Kbps) |
| 8 | Not Used (or unknown) |
| 9 | SCI B Trans (RX) (SAE J2610) (7812.5bps, 62.5Kbps, 125.0Kbps) |
| 10 | Not Used (or unknown) |
| 11 | CCD Bus – |
| 12 | Engine SCI B (RX) (SAE J2610) (7812.5bps, 62.5Kbps, 125.0Kbps) |
| 13 | Not Used (or unknown) |
| 14 | CAN Low (ISO 15765-4 and SAE J2284) (500Kbps) SCI A Trans (RX) (SAE J2610) (7812.5bps, 62.5Kbps, 125.0Kbps) |
| 15 | ISO 9141-2 / ISO 14230-4 L Line (10.4Kbps) (Optional) SCI B Trans (TX) (SAE J2610) (7812.5bps, 62.5Kbps, 125.0Kbps) |
| 16 | Battery Power: Type “A” 12V/4A, Type “B” 24V/2A |
6.5. FORD
| Pin Number | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Infotainment CAN High Ignition Control (activates low current switching device to supply ignition current) |
| 2 | SAE J1850 PWM (Ford SCP) Bus + (41.6Kbps) |
| 3 | DCL + Medium speed CAN high (125Kbps, 250Kbps) UBP Network #1 (9600bps) |
| 4 | Chassis Ground |
| 5 | Signal Ground |
| 6 | CAN High (ISO 15765-4 and SAE J2284) (500Kbps) |
| 7 | ISO 9141-2 / ISO 14230-4 K Line (10.4Kbps) |
| 8 | Infotainment CAN Low Activation Signal (multiple module activation inputs controlled via communications link to initiate/end an event) |
| 9 | Battery Feed (Switched) (vehicle battery feed available via ignition switch or ignition controller [Pin 1]) |
| 10 | SAE J1850 PWM (Ford SCP) Bus – (41.6Kbps) |
| 11 | DCL – Medium speed CAN low (125Kbps, 250Kbps) UBP Network #2 (9600bps) |
| 12 | EEPROM Flash Memory |
| 13 | FEPS — ECU Programming Voltage EEPROM Flash Memory |
| 14 | CAN Low (ISO 15765-4 and SAE J2284) (500Kbps) |
| 15 | Not used by Ford |
| 16 | Battery Power: Type “A” 12V/4A, Type “B” 24V/2A |
6.6. GM
| Pin Number | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Single Wire CAN (SAE J2411 / GMW3089) (33.3Kbps) GM UART / ALDL (SAE J2740) (8192 bit/sec) |
| 2 | SAE J1850 VPW Bus + (10.4Kbps) |
| 3 | CAN Bus Object Detect + |
| 4 | Chassis Ground |
| 5 | Signal Ground |
| 6 | CAN High (ISO 15765-4 and SAE J2284) (500Kbps) |
| 7 | ISO 9141-2 / ISO 14230-4 K Line (10.4Kbps) |
| 8 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 9 | GM UART / ALDL (SAE J2740) (8192 bit/sec) |
| 10 | Not Used (or unknown) |
| 11 | CAN Bus Object Detect – |
| 12 | Chassis Ground CAN Bus High Speed + (500Kbps) |
| 13 | Chassis Ground CAN Bus High Speed – (500Kbps) |
| 14 | CAN Low (ISO 15765-4 and SAE J2284) (500Kbps) |
| 15 | ISO 9141-2 / ISO 14230-4 L Line (10.4Kbps) (Optional) |
| 16 | Battery Power: Type “A” 12V/4A, Type “B” 24V/2A |
6.7. HONDA
| Pin Number | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 2 | SAE J1850 Bus + (VPW / PWM) |
| 3 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 4 | Chassis Ground |
| 5 | Signal Ground |
| 6 | CAN High (ISO 15765-4 and SAE J2284) |
| 7 | ISO 9141-2 / ISO 14230-4 K Line |
| 8 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 9 | SCS (Service Check System) – diagnostic code |
| 10 | SAE J1850 Bus – (PWM only) |
| 11 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 12 | Programming out |
| 13 | Input/Output for VTM-4 and lock control |
| 14 | CAN Low (ISO 15765-4 and SAE J2284) |
| 15 | ISO 9141-2 / ISO 14230-4 L Line (Optional) |
| 16 | Battery Power: Type “A” 12V/4A, Type “B” 24V/2A |
6.8. HYUNDAI
| Pin Number | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Transmission diagnosis |
| 2 | ABS diagnosis, BUS+ Line |
| 3 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 4 | Chassis Ground |
| 5 | Signal Ground |
| 6 | CAN High (ISO 15765-4 and SAE J2284), ABS/ASR diagnosis |
| 7 | Engine and transmission diagnosis ISO 9141-2 / ISO 14230-4 K Line |
| 8 | ABS diagnosis |
| 9 | Cruise control diagnosis |
| 10 | SAE J1850 Bus – (PWM only) |
| 11 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 12 | Airbag diagnosis |
| 13 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 14 | CAN Low (ISO 15765-4 and SAE J2284) VSS (vehicle speed) |
| 15 | ISO 9141-2 / ISO 14230-4 L Line (Optional) |
| 16 | Battery Power: Type “A” 12V/4A, Type “B” 24V/2A |
6.9. INFINITI
| Pin Number | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | CHECK |
| 2 | SAE J1850 Bus + (VPW / PWM) |
| 3 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 4 | Chassis Ground |
| 5 | Signal Ground |
| 6 | CAN High (ISO 15765-4 and SAE J2284) |
| 7 | ISO 9141-2 / ISO 14230-4 K Line |
| 8 | Ignition ON |
| 9 | ABS |
| 10 | SAE J1850 Bus – (PWM only) |
| 11 | Switch Adjustment |
| 12 | SCI TX |
| 13 | SCI RX |
| 14 | CAN Low (ISO 15765-4 and SAE J2284) |
| 15 | ISO 9141-2 / ISO 14230-4 L Line (Optional) |
| 16 | Battery Power: Type “A” 12V/4A, Type “B” 24V/2A |
6.10. KIA
| Pin Number | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Transmission diagnosis |
| 2 | ABS diagnosis, BUS+ Line |
| 3 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 4 | Chassis Ground |
| 5 | Signal Ground |
| 6 | CAN High (ISO 15765-4 and SAE J2284), ABS/ASR diagnosis |
| 7 | Engine and transmission diagnosis ISO 9141-2 / ISO 14230-4 K Line |
| 8 | ABS diagnosis |
| 9 | Cruise control diagnosis |
| 10 | SAE J1850 Bus – (PWM only) |
| 11 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 12 | Airbag diagnosis |
| 13 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 14 | CAN Low (ISO 15765-4 and SAE J2284) VSS (vehicle speed) |
| 15 | ISO 9141-2 / ISO 14230-4 L Line (Optional) |
| 16 | Battery Power: Type “A” 12V/4A, Type “B” 24V/2A |
6.11. LEXUS
| Pin Number | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 2 | SAE J1850 Bus + (VPW / PWM) |
| 3 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 4 | Chassis Ground |
| 5 | Signal Ground |
| 6 | CAN High (ISO 15765-4 and SAE J2284) |
| 7 | ISO 9141-2 / ISO 14230-4 K Line |
| 8 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 9 | ECM Tachometer |
| 10 | SAE J1850 Bus – (PWM only) |
| 11 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 12 | Brake Actuator |
| 13 | Timing Check – adjust ignition timing advance or ABS slow trouble code |
| 14 | CAN Low (ISO 15765-4 and SAE J2284) |
| 15 | ISO 9141-2 / ISO 14230-4 L Line (Optional) |
| 16 | Battery Power: Type “A” 12V/4A, Type “B” 24V/2A |
6.12. MAZDA
| Pin Number | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 2 | SAE J1850 Bus + (VPW / PWM) |
| 3 | Low Speed CAN bus (125Kb). This bus is used for some IC, RFA and other units. |
| 4 | Chassis Ground |
| 5 | Signal Ground |
| 6 | CAN High (ISO 15765-4 and SAE J2284) |
| 7 | ISO 9141-2 / ISO 14230-4 K Line |
| 8 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 9 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 10 | SAE J1850 Bus – (PWM only) |
| 11 | Low Speed CAN bus (125Kb). This bus is used for some IC, RFA and other units. |
| 12 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 13 | Manufacturer Discretion |
| 14 | CAN Low (ISO 15765-4 and SAE J2284) |
| 15 | ISO 9141-2 / ISO 14230-4 L Line (Optional) |
| 16 | Battery Power: Type “A” 12V/4A, Type “B” 24V/2A |
6.13. MERCEDES-BENZ
| Pin Number | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Ignition control system (EZS), Air Conditioning (KLA), PTS, safety systems (Airbag, SRS |
