For those diving into the world of Mercedes Sprinter vans, whether for commercial use, adventurous van conversions, or simply as a robust vehicle, the experience is generally rewarding. Many owners, like myself, appreciate the engineering and capabilities these vans offer. Part of owning a modern vehicle often involves utilizing the OBD2 port for diagnostics, monitoring, or adding performance enhancements with devices like the ScanGauge II. However, Sprinter owners soon discover a less-than-ideal design choice: the location of the OBD2 port.
Unlike many vehicles where the OBD2 port is readily accessible under the steering column, the Sprinter Obd2 Port is tucked away behind a plastic kick panel on the driver’s side. Specifically, it’s located beneath the dashboard, just behind the driver’s side door. Mercedes has provided a hinged door for access, which is a thoughtful touch in theory. This door, secured by a simple latch, is meant to conceal the connector and fuses, maintaining a clean look in the driver’s footwell.
The trouble arises when you intend to use an OBD2 device that requires a continuous connection while driving. Trying to keep devices like a ScanGauge or diagnostic tools plugged in reveals a significant design flaw. With an OBD2 cable connected, the hinged access door simply cannot be closed and latched. This leaves the plastic door dangling open, directly interfering with driver comfort.
The open door becomes a nuisance, intruding into the driver’s foot space. It obstructs access to the floor, particularly that comfortable spot on the left side of the driver’s footwell, seemingly designed for relaxed driving posture. For Sprinter owners wanting to monitor vehicle parameters in real-time, this OBD2 port placement presents a genuine problem.
Short of drastic measures like permanently removing the entire kick panel molding, a practical solution for neatly managing a permanently connected OBD2 device remains elusive. The hinged door appears to be a fixed part of the panel, not easily detachable or replaceable. Similarly, relocating the OBD2 plug itself doesn’t seem like a straightforward modification.
Many Sprinter enthusiasts have likely encountered this exact issue. Despite searching forums and online resources, a readily available, non-destructive workaround hasn’t surfaced. Is there a simple fix we’re overlooking? Perhaps a clever routing solution for the OBD2 cable, or a minor modification that allows the door to close?
If you’ve discovered a solution that doesn’t involve permanently altering the Sprinter’s interior, your insights would be greatly appreciated. Sharing a practical workaround would benefit not only myself and my “Candy Man Van” but the wider community of Sprinter owners grappling with this inconvenient OBD2 port location.
