For those venturing into the world of electric vehicle components, particularly Nissan Leaf batteries, understanding their health is paramount. An invaluable tool for this is connecting an OBD2 scanner directly to the battery. This guide provides an open-source solution for creating your own “Obd2 Leaf” connector, a must-have gadget if you’re considering purchasing a Nissan Leaf battery and want to assess its state-of-health beforehand.
It’s important to note that Nissan Leaf batteries utilize two distinct versions of the ‘Yazaki’ connector, known as the B24 connector in service manuals. The earlier models from 2011-2012 employ a 21-pin connector, while the 2013-2019 versions feature a 36-pin connector. Ensure you identify the correct connector type for your battery, as detailed schematics for both are available in the documentation.
Understanding the Connector: 2013+ Models
For Nissan Leaf batteries manufactured from 2013 onwards, the 36-pin Yazaki B24 connector is standard. This connector is your gateway to accessing crucial battery health data via an OBD2 scanner.
Identifying the Connector: 2011-2012 Models
Nissan Leaf batteries from 2011 to 2012 utilize a 21-pin Yazaki B24 connector. While functionally similar, the pin configuration differs from later models, necessitating a different connector design.
For reference, a standard Yazaki 22-pin connector is visually similar and helps illustrate the type of connector you’ll be working with.
Building Your Own OBD2 Leaf Connector: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating your own OBD2 Leaf connector is a straightforward DIY project. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3D-Printed ‘B24’ Connector: Download the appropriate connector design (21-pin or 36-pin) from this repository and 3D print it. Alternatively, for 2013-2019 36-pin connectors, a pre-made option is available online, potentially eliminating steps 2 and 3.
- Dupont Style Connectors: These are commonly found in Arduino kits or salvaged from old computers. You’ll need various sizes (1×2, 1×3, 1×4 for 2013+, or 1×1 for 2011-2012).
- Superglue / Epoxy: For securely attaching the Dupont connectors to the 3D-printed B24 connector.
- OBD2 Port and Pins: You can purchase a new OBD2 port or salvage one from a scrap vehicle.
- Wires: For connecting the B24 connector to the OBD2 port.
- 12V Power Source: A small lead-acid battery or a series of 18650 batteries will suffice.
Printing Your Connector: Tips for Success
For 3D printing the B24 connector, PLA and PETG filaments have proven effective. ABS is also likely to work. Print at a slow speed to ensure the mounting holes are precisely shaped. Layer height is not critical; settings of .12mm to .28mm are all suitable. An infill of 20% or higher is recommended. No supports are needed for printing, and the process typically takes around 1.5 hours.
Assembling Your OBD2 Leaf Connector: Detailed Instructions
- Gather Components: Ensure you have all the necessary parts listed above.
- Prepare the B24 Connector: Once printed, carefully attach the Dupont connectors to the 3D-printed B24 connector using superglue or epoxy. Apply glue sparingly, avoiding any excess that could obstruct the connector pins.
- Wiring: After the glue has dried, connect the B24 wiring to the OBD2 port wiring. Solder or crimp the wires according to the provided schematic diagram.
- Power Up: Connect your 12V power source to the appropriate pins.
With assembly complete, your DIY OBD2 Leaf connector should resemble the example below.
Reading Battery Data with Leafspy
To access battery data, plug an OBD2 Bluetooth dongle into your newly তৈরি OBD2 Leaf connector and use the Leafspy app. Within Leafspy’s settings, switch to ‘BMS only’ mode. This option is typically found in the model year selection menu, often located above the 2010 model year option.
If all steps have been followed correctly, Leafspy will display detailed Nissan Leaf battery information, as shown in the example screenshot.
Wiring Schematics for OBD2 Leaf Connector
Refer to the schematic below for wiring the 2013+ connector to an OBD2 port.
For 2011-2012 models, the wiring process is similar, but be sure to consult the specific 2011-2012 pinouts for the B24 connector due to pin location differences. 2011-2012 pinouts.
By building your own OBD2 Leaf connector, you gain direct access to your Nissan Leaf battery’s health data, empowering you to make informed decisions regarding battery purchase and maintenance. This DIY solution provides a cost-effective and insightful tool for any Nissan Leaf enthusiast or EV tinkerer.
