Where is the OBD-II port located?
The OBD-II port is usually located under the dashboard on the driver's side, near the steering column, and is often at knee height. Some models hide it behind a small cover, a fuse‑box door, or inside a panel in the footwell or center console.
Common locations in modern cars
The following spots are where the OBD-II port most commonly sits. Check these areas first before looking elsewhere.
- Driver’s side lower dash, near the steering column, typically at knee level.
- Behind a removable panel or small door in the lower dash, just left of the steering wheel.
- Behind a fuse‑box cover or similar access door on the left side of the dash.
- Inside or behind a panel in the glove box or center console in some models.
- In trucks or large SUVs, sometimes near the brake pedal area or under a dash panel on the driver’s side.
If you don’t locate it in these common spots, consult the vehicle’s owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website for the exact location.
What the port looks like and how to access it
Knowing the port’s appearance and typical access method helps you locate it quickly. The OBD-II socket is a 16‑pin trapezoidal connector. It is usually black or gray and sits recessed behind a protective cover or within a small opening in the dash or fuse panel.
Physical appearance
Look for a 16‑pin, trapezoidal connector on the driver’s side dash area. It may be hidden behind a flip‑down door or concealed behind a removable panel.
- Commonly found under the dash on the driver's side, near knee height.
- May require opening a small door or panel to reveal the socket.
- The diagnostic tool you plug in has a 16‑pin male connector that fits this port.
If you still can’t find the port, check the owner’s manual or contact a dealer or qualified technician for guidance.
Regional variations and quick tips
While the driver’s side dash location is standard for many regions, there are exceptions. In some European, Asian, or right‑hand‑drive markets, the port may be on the opposite side of the dash or behind a different panel. When in doubt, search your make/model/year in the manual or online resources to confirm the exact spot.
Summary
For most vehicles built since the mid‑1990s, the OBD-II port sits on the driver’s side under the dash, within easy reach. If it isn’t immediately visible, check behind a small access panel, the fuse‑box area, or inside the glove box or center console. The port is a 16‑pin trapezoidal connector designed for standardized diagnostics, and exact placement can vary by model and region. When in doubt, the owner’s manual or a dealership can quickly confirm the location.
