For car enthusiasts and those who like to monitor their vehicle’s performance or use multiple OBD2 devices, the question “Can You Get An Obd2 Splitter?” often arises. The answer is a resounding yes! An OBD2 splitter allows you to connect multiple devices to your car’s single OBD2 port, opening up a range of possibilities for diagnostics and data monitoring. This guide will walk you through a simple installation process to get your OBD2 splitter set up quickly.
Before you begin, you’ll need to gather a few items. First, acquire an OBD2 splitter and a bracket for mounting it securely. Online marketplaces like eBay are excellent sources for these parts. Specifically, you might consider a bracket like http://www.ebay.com/itm/200901287023 and an OBD2 splitter such as http://www.ebay.com/itm/321221830865. You will also need a few common tools: a Phillips head screwdriver, a small Torx set, a trim removal tool, and a mini flat head screwdriver.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
The installation process is straightforward and can be completed in a short amount of time with these steps:
Step 1: Accessing the OBD2 Port Area
Start by using the Phillips screwdriver to remove the hood release handle located in the driver’s side footwell. Once removed, a Torx screw will be visible, which you should also remove using the Torx set. Next, gently pull back the door weather stripping near the dashboard to allow access to the plastic door trim. Remove this black plastic door trim piece. Following this, you’ll need to remove the kick panel that surrounds the OBD2 port. Carefully pull it towards the transmission tunnel. This panel is held in place by two snap clips. One is located in the lower middle of the panel, and the other becomes visible after removing the weather stripping. Utilize the trim removal tool to detach the snap connector closest to the trunk release and reposition it appropriately on the kick panel for easier reassembly later.
Step 2: Preparing for Splitter Installation
Locate the trunk release button on the kick panel and push it from behind to disengage it. Rotate the button to observe how the wire harness is connected. Use the miniature flat head screwdriver to gently release the wire harness clip. Set the trunk release button and the kick panel aside. Now, using the Torx set again, unscrew the lower dash panel screws. You only need to remove the screw closest to the door and the one to its right, leaving the third screw in place. After loosening the dash panel, identify the two Phillips screws securing the OEM OBD2 port to the car. Remove both of these screws with the Phillips screwdriver.
Step 3: Installing the OBD2 Splitter
Take the OEM harness that was connected to the original OBD2 port and plug it into the OBD2 splitter replicator. Then, take the first connector in the splitter series and plug it into the aftermarket bracket you acquired. With the splitter connected, you can now plug in any auxiliary devices you plan to use into the remaining connectors of the OBD2 splitter.
Step 4: Finalizing the Installation
Gently pull down slightly on the lower dash panel and tuck the additional connectors from the OBD2 splitter up behind the dash to keep them out of sight and secure. Screw the dash panel back into its original position, ensuring everything is snug but not over-tightened. Next, screw the new bracket that holds the OBD2 splitter into place where the original OBD2 port was located. Pay close attention to the orientation and positioning of the OEM harness and splitter connection, as this is crucial for ensuring the kick panel fits back correctly without obstruction. Refer to the image below for proper positioning, particularly noting the trunk release harness location for easy reconnection.
With the splitter and bracket secured, carefully put the kick panel back into place. Remember the top snap connector you repositioned earlier? Having it in the kick panel will indeed make re-installation much smoother. Ensure the trunk release wiring remains accessible, and then plug the trunk release button back into its connector.
Finally, put the black plastic door trim back into place, followed by the door weather stripping. To complete the installation and conceal the newly installed splitter, replace the OBD2 access cover.
By following these steps, you’ve successfully installed an OBD2 splitter, effectively expanding your car’s OBD2 port capabilities. Now you can simultaneously use multiple OBD2 devices, enhancing your vehicle diagnostics and monitoring options. This simple modification answers the question “can you get an OBD2 splitter?” with a practical demonstration of how easy and beneficial it can be.
