For Audi owners and automotive enthusiasts, understanding the On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) system is crucial for vehicle maintenance and repair. The OBD2 port in your Audi provides a gateway to your car’s computer, allowing you to read diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), monitor engine performance, and much more. At the heart of this system is the OBD2 pinout, the specific arrangement of pins within the diagnostic connector. This guide will delve into the Audi Obd2 Pinout, its significance, and how it facilitates communication with your vehicle’s systems.
Understanding the OBD2 pinout is the first step in effectively diagnosing your Audi. This standardized interface, mandated in many countries starting in the mid-1990s, ensures compatibility across different scan tools and diagnostic equipment. However, knowing the specific functions of each pin, especially for a brand like Audi with its sophisticated electronics, is vital for accurate and safe diagnostics.
Audi OBD2 Pinout Diagram and Explanation
The OBD2 connector is a 16-pin Diagnostic Link Connector (DLC). While standardized, the specific pins used and the communication protocols can vary between manufacturers and models. Here’s a breakdown of the standard OBD2 pinout, focusing on the pins commonly used in Audi vehicles:
| Pin | Signal | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | J1850 Bus+ | Used for SAE J1850 PWM and VPW communication protocols, primarily found in older vehicles, though less common in many Audi models. |
| 4 | CGND | Chassis Ground. Provides a ground connection to the vehicle’s chassis. |
| 5 | SGND | Signal Ground. Ground reference for the signaling circuits. |
| 6 | CAN High | CAN (Controller Area Network) High. Part of the CAN bus communication, essential for modern Audi diagnostics (ISO 15765-4). |
| 7 | K-LINE | K-Line. Used for ISO 9141-2 and ISO 14230-4 (KWP2000) communication protocols, common in older OBD2 Audi models. |
| 10 | J1850 Bus- | Used for SAE J1850 PWM and VPW communication protocols. Complementary to Pin 2. |
| 14 | CAN Low | CAN (Controller Area Network) Low. Completes the CAN bus communication circuit. |
| 15 | ISO 9141-2 L-LINE | L-Line. Used for ISO 9141-2 and ISO 14230-4 communication protocols. Complementary to Pin 7. |
| 16 | +12V | Battery Power. Provides power to the scan tool from the vehicle’s battery. |
It’s important to note that not all pins are always used in every vehicle or for every diagnostic protocol. For Audi, pins 4, 5, 6, 7, 14, and 16 are particularly relevant for most OBD2 diagnostic procedures. Pins 2, 10, and 15 were more relevant in pre-CAN era systems and might be encountered in older Audi models, although K-line (pins 7 and 15) was prevalent for a longer period.
Alt text: Diagram illustrating the Audi OBD2 port pinout, highlighting pin positions and their corresponding signals such as CAN High, CAN Low, K-Line, and power.
Audi OBD2 Compatibility List: Protocols by Model and Year
Understanding the pinout is only part of the equation. Knowing which OBD2 protocol your Audi uses is equally important for selecting the right diagnostic tool and ensuring successful communication. Audi, like other manufacturers, has transitioned through different OBD2 protocols over the years. This compatibility list, while not exhaustive, provides a good overview of OBD2 protocol usage across various Audi models and production years.
| Model | Engine | Year (starting from) | OBD-2 Protocol |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audi 100 | C4 2.5 TDI AAT 1.Generation, Diesel (114 HP) | 1992 | KW 1281 |
| C4 4A, Gasoline (114 HP) | 1994 | ||
| Audi 200 | 20V, Gasoline (218 HP) | 1990 | |
| Audi 80 | Gasoline (172 HP) | 1991 | KW 1281 |
| 2,8E Automatik, Gasoline (172 HP) | 1991 | KW 1281 | |
| B4, Gasoline (112 HP) | 1991 | ||
| B4, Gasoline (114 HP) | 1992 | KW 1281 | |
| B4, TDI, MKB 1Z, Diesel (89 HP) | 1992 | KW 1281 | |
| (B4) 2.0 ABT, Gasoline (89 HP) | 1993 | KW 1281 | |
| B4, Gasoline (114 HP) | 1993 | KW 1281 | |
| B4 Motor ABK, ECU:039906024A Digifant 1.75 , Gasoline (114 HP) | 1993 | KW 1281 | |
| B4 TDI, Diesel (89 HP) | 1993 | KW 1281 | |
| Gasoline (89 HP) | 1994 | KW 1281 | |
| (B4) Motor ABT, Gasoline (89 HP) | 1994 | ||
| B4, Gasoline (89 HP) | 1994 | KW 1281 | |
| B4, Gasoline (89 HP) | 1994 | KW 1281 | |
| B4 (ABT), Gasoline (89 HP) | 1994 | KW 1281 | |
| B4 2.0 (ABT), Gasoline (89 HP) | 1994 | KW 1281 | |
| tdi, Diesel (89 HP) | 1994 | KW 1281 | |
| TDI (B4), Diesel (89 HP) | 1995 | KW 1281 | |
| Audi 80 Avant | Gasoline (114 HP) | 1995 | KW 1281 |
| Audi 80 Coupe | Gasoline (172 HP) | 1994 | ISO 9141-2 |
| Audi 8L | 1,8 Turbo Oettinger, Gasoline (191 HP) | 1997 | |
| Audi A1 | 1.4 TFSI, Gasoline (122HP) | 2012 | CAN 11bit (500kb) |
| Audi A2 | Gasoline (74 HP) | 2000 | |
| 1,4 TDI, Diesel (74 HP) | 2001 | ISO 9141-2 | |
| 1.4L, Gasoline (74 HP) | 2001 | KW 1281 | |
| 1.4, Diesel (75HP) | 2001 | ISO 9141 | |
| Diesel (88 HP) | 2002 | KW 1281 | |
| 1,4 TDI, Diesel (74 HP) | 2002 | KW 1281 | |
| 1.2 TDI, Diesel (61 HP) | 2002 | KW 1281 | |
| Gasoline (74 HP) | 2004 | ISO 9141-2 | |
| Diesel (89 HP) | 2004 | KW 2000 VAG | |
| 1.6 FSI, Gasoline (110HP) | 2004 | ISO 9141 | |
| Diesel (89 HP) | 2005 | KW 1281 | |
| Audi A3 | Gasoline (100 HP) | 1988 | |
| Gasoline (124 HP) | 1995 | KW 1281 | |
| (L, Gasoline (109 HP) | 1995 | KW 1281 | |
| 1.9 tdi, Diesel (90HP) | 1996 | ISO 9141 | |
| Gasoline (124 HP) | 1997 | KW 1281 | |
| Diesel (109 HP) | 1997 | KW 1281 | |
| 8L, Diesel (89 HP) | 1997 | KW 1281 | |
| 8L, Diesel (89 HP) | 1997 | KW 1281 | |
| (8L), Automatikgetriebe, Gasoline (100 HP) | 1997 | KW 1281 | |
| Gasoline (148 HP) | 1998 | KW 1281 | |
| Gasoline (148 HP) | 1998 | KW 1281 | |
| Diesel (108 HP) | 1999 | KW 1281 | |
| tdi 8L, Diesel (89 HP) | 1999 | KW 1281 | |
| 1.8T AUM, Gasoline (148 HP) | 2000 | KW 1281 | |
| 1.9 TDi, Diesel (110HP) | 2000 | ISO 9141 | |
| 1.8 Turbo, Gasoline (180HP) | 2000 | ISO 9141 | |
| Gasoline (101 HP) | 2001 | KW 1281 | |
| Diesel (109 HP) | 2001 | KW 1281 | |
| 1.6, Gasoline (102HP) | 2001 | KWP SLOW | |
| 1.9 tdi, Diesel (130HP) | 2001 | ISO 9141 | |
| 1.8 Turbo, Gasoline (210HP) | 2001 | ISO 9141 | |
| – 8L – , Diesel (129 HP) | 2002 | KW 1281 | |
| 8L, Gasoline (101 HP) | 2002 | ||
| 8L, Diesel (100 HP) | 2002 | KW 1281 | |
| 1.9 tdi, Diesel (105HP) | 2002 | ISO 9141 | |
| 2.0 tdi, Diesel (140HP) | 2003 | #ССЫЛКА! | |
| P8, Diesel (139 HP) | 2004 | CAN | |
| P8, Diesel (139 HP) | 2004 | KW 1281 | |
| – 8P, Gasoline (97 HP) | 2004 | CAN | |
| 8p, Gasoline (97 HP) | 2004 | ||
| 8P, Diesel (139 HP) | 2004 | KW 1281 | |
| 3.2 V6, Gasoline (250HP) | 2004 | KWP SLOW | |
| 1.9TDi, Diesel (105HP) | 2005 | KWP SLOW | |
| 2.0 TFSi, Gasoline (200HP) | 2005 | KWP SLOW | |
| 1.9 TDi, Diesel (90HP) | 2006 | KWP SLOW | |
| 2.0 TDi, Diesel (170HP) | 2006 | CAN 11bit (500kb) | |
| 1.4 T, Gasoline (124 HP) | 2007 | CAN | |
| 8P, Gasoline (101 HP) | 2007 | ISO 9141-2 | |
| 8P / 151 KW / Disel Sportback 2,0 L, Diesel (203 HP) | 2007 | KW 2000 VAG | |
| 2.0 tdi, Diesel (140HP) | 2007 | KWP SLOW | |
| 2, Gasoline (200HP) | 2007 | CAN 11bit (500kb) | |
| 2.0 TDI, Diesel (136 HP) | 2008 | CAN | |
| 2.0 TDi, Diesel (140HP) | 2008 | CAN 11bit (500kb) | |
| Audi A3 8PA Sportback | Diesel (104 HP) | 2007 | |
| Audi A3 Cabrio | 8P 1,9l, Diesel (104 HP) | 2008 | CAN |
| Audi A4 | Gasoline (124 HP) | 1995 | KW 1281 |
| Gasoline (124 HP) | 1995 | ||
| Gasoline (100 HP) | 1995 | KW 1281 | |
| Gasoline (172 HP) | 1995 | KW 1281 | |
| (B5), Diesel (89 HP) | 1995 | KW 1281 | |
| 1,8T AEB, Gasoline (148 HP) | 1995 | KW 1281 | |
| 1.8, Gasoline (123 HP) | 1995 | KW 1281 | |
| 1.9 TDi, Diesel (110HP) | 1996 | ISO 9141 | |
| Diesel (109 HP) | 1997 | KW 1281 | |
| (B5), Gasoline (100 HP) | 1997 | KW 1281 | |
| (B5) Avant (1.9 TDI, Motor: AFN), Diesel (109 HP) | 1997 | KW 1281 | |
| 1.8 20V, Gasoline (124 HP) | 1997 | KW 1281 | |
| 1.9 TDI AFN, Diesel (119 HP) | 1997 | KW 1281 | |
| Gasoline (148 HP) | 1998 | ||
| 1998 | ISO 14230-4, ISO 9141-2 | ||
| Diesel (109 HP) | 1998 | ||
| Diesel (124 HP) | 1998 | KW 1281 | |
| 1.9 tdi, Diesel (110HP) | 1998 | ISO 9141 | |
| Diesel (172 HP) | 1999 | ||
| 2.5 TDi, Diesel (150HP) | 1999 | ISO 9141 | |
| (B5) Avant 2,5TDI, Diesel (148 HP) | 2000 | KW 1281 | |
| 1,8t s-line B5, Gasoline (148 HP) | 2000 | ||
| 1.9 tdi, Diesel (115HP) | 2000 | ISO 9141 | |
| 2001 | ISO 14230-4, ISO 9141-2 | ||
| Diesel (114 HP) | 2001 | ISO 9141-2 | |
| Diesel (129 HP) | 2001 | ||
| 1.9 TDI, Diesel (114 HP) | 2001 | ISO 9141-2 | |
| 1.9 TDI, Diesel (109 HP) | 2001 | ISO 9141-2 | |
| 2,5 TDI quattro (8E/B6), Diesel (178 HP) | 2001 | KW 1281 | |
| V6 Quattro (8E), Gasoline (218 HP) | 2001 | KW 1281 | |
| 1.9 TDi, Diesel (130HP) | 2001 | ISO 9141 | |
| 1.8 T, Gasoline (150HP) | 2001 | ISO 9141 | |
| 2.5 TDi, Diesel (155HP) | 2001 | ISO 9141 | |
| Diesel (161 HP) | 2002 | KW 1281 | |
| (8E), Diesel (129 HP) | 2002 | KW 1281 | |
| 1.9 tdi, Diesel (101HP) | 2002 | ISO 9141 | |
| 2.5 V6 tdi, Diesel (180HP) | 2002 | ISO 9141 | |
| 8e, Gasoline (161 HP) | 2003 | ||
| -Avant-2,5TDI, Diesel (178 HP) | 2003 | KW 1281 | |
| 1.8 T, Gasoline (163HP) | 2003 | KWP SLOW | |
| Gasoline (129 HP) | 2004 | ||
| 2,5 TDI , Diesel (161 HP) | 2004 | KW 1281 | |
| TDI 1.9, Diesel (117 HP) | 2004 | ISO 14230-4 | |
| 1.9 tdi, Diesel (116HP) | 2004 | KWP SLOW | |
| 2.5, Diesel (163HP) | 2004 | ISO 9141 | |
| (B7), Gasoline (198 HP) | 2005 | CAN | |
| 2.0 tdi (BPW), Diesel (140HP) | 2005 | CAN 11bit (500kb) | |
| 2, Diesel (140HP) | 2005 | CAN 11bit (500kb) | |
| 1.9 TDi, Diesel (115HP) | 2006 | CAN 11bit (500kb) | |
| tdi, Diesel (136HP) | 2010 | CAN 11bit (500kb) | |
| 2.0 TDi, Diesel (143HP) | 2011 | CAN 11bit (500kb) | |
| Audi a4 AFN | Diesel (109 HP) | 1998 | KW 1281 |
| Audi A4 AHU | Gasoline (89 HP) | 1998 | |
| Audi A4 Avant | Gasoline (124 HP) | 1995 | |
| B5, Gasoline (124 HP) | 1995 | ||
| Gasoline (148 HP) | 1997 | ||
| Quattro 1.8T, Gasoline (148 HP) | 1997 | ||
| Gasoline (124 HP) | 1999 | KW 1281 | |
| 8D5, 2.5TDI, Diesel (148 HP) | 1999 | KW 1281 | |
| B6 1.9TDI, Diesel (129 HP) | 2005 | KW 1281 | |
| 2.7 TDI DPF, Diesel (178 HP) | 2006 | CAN | |
| B7/8E, Diesel (139 HP) | 2007 | KW 1281 | |
| 3.0 TDI 8ED , Diesel (230 HP) | 2008 | ||
| 3.0 TDI 8ED, Diesel (230 HP) | 2008 | ||
| Audi a4 b5 | Gasoline (172 HP) | 1994 | |
| Gasoline (172 HP) | 1995 | ||
| Gasoline (98 HP) | 1995 | ||
| (1.9 TDI, Motor: 1Z), Diesel (89 HP) | 1995 | KW 1281 | |
| (8D), Gasoline (100 HP) | 1995 | KW 1281 | |
| 8D, Gasoline (104 HP) | 1995 | ISO 9141-2 | |
| Gasoline (148 HP) | 1997 | KW 1281 | |
| 1.8T, Gasoline (148 HP) | 1997 | ||
| Gasoline (124 HP) | 1998 | KW 1281 | |
| (8D), Gasoline (100 HP) | 1998 | KW 1281 | |
| TDI 81KW AFN Quattro, Diesel (109 HP) | 1998 | KW 1281 | |
| Gasoline (100 HP) | 1999 | KW 1281 | |
| Gasoline (163 HP) | 1999 | KW 1281 | |
| (mod. 2000), Gasoline (100 HP) | 1999 | KW 1281 | |
| ab 1999, Gasoline (148 HP) | 1999 | KW 1281 | |
| Gasoline (124 HP) | 2000 | ||
| Gasoline (124 HP) | 2000 | ISO 9141-2 | |
| Gasoline (100 HP) | 2000 | KW 1281 | |
| Diesel (148 HP) | 2000 | KW 1281 | |
| Audi A4 B5 Avant | Diesel (109 HP) | 1997 | KW 1281 |
| Diesel (114 HP) | 2000 | KW 1281 | |
| Audi A4 B6 | 2.0 (engine code ALT), Gasoline (129 HP) | 2001 | KW 1281 |
| 8E, Gasoline (128 HP) | 2001 | ||
| Audi A4 B7 Avant | Diesel (168 HP) | 2007 | KW 1281 |
| Audi A4 B7 Variant | Diesel (161 HP) | 2005 | KW 1281 |
| Audi A4 Cabrio | Gasoline (202 HP) | 2002 | |
| 3.0 V6 (ASN), Gasoline (218 HP) | 2003 | KW 1281 | |
| Audi A4 Kombi | Gasoline (124 HP) | 1999 | KW 1281 |
| 2-Liter/4-Zyl., Gasoline (131 HP) | 2002 | ISO 14230-4 | |
| Audi A4/S4 | (B5), Gasoline (262 HP) | 2000 | ISO 9141-2 |
| Audi A5 | 3.2 FSI, Gasoline (265HP) | 2008 | CAN 11bit (500kb) |
| 2.0 TFSI, Gasoline (211HP) | 2011 | CAN 11bit (500kb) | |
| Audi A6 | C4, Gasoline (148 HP) | 1994 | ISO 9141-2 |
| C4, Gasoline (114 HP) | 1994 | ||
| (C4), Gasoline (148 HP) | 1995 | KW 1281 | |
| 2,6 (Typ C4), Gasoline (148 HP) | 1995 | ISO 9141-2 | |
| C4, Gasoline (148 HP) | 1995 | KW 1281 | |
| C4, Diesel (139 HP) | 1995 | KW 1281 | |
| C4, Diesel (114 HP) | 1995 | KW 1281 | |
| C4 4A, Diesel (139 HP) | 1995 | KW 1281 | |
| C4 Motor ABK, Gasoline (114 HP) | 1995 | ||
| , Diesel (139 HP) | 1995 | KW 1281 | |
| 1998 | ISO 14230-4, ISO 9141-2 | ||
| Diesel (202 HP) | 1998 | ||
| 2.8 Avant Quattro, Gasoline (191 HP) | 1998 | ISO 9141-2 | |
| (4B), Gasoline (148 HP) | 1999 | KW 1281 | |
| 2,5 tdI, Diesel (148 HP) | 1999 | ||
| 4B, Gasoline (148 HP) | 1999 | KW 1281 | |
| 4B, Diesel (148 HP) | 1999 | ||
| 4B 2,5 TDI, Diesel (135 HP) | 1999 | ||
| 4B C5 Avant 2.8, Gasoline (191 HP) | 1999 | KW 1281 | |
| Diesel (148 HP) | 2000 | ||
| Diesel (148 HP) | 2000 | ||
| 4B 2,7T, Gasoline (227 HP) | 2000 | KW 1281 | |
| 4B 2.8l V6 quattro, Gasoline (191 HP) | 2000 | KW 1281 | |
| B4-C5, Diesel (178 HP) | 2000 | KW 1281 | |
| 2.5 V6 tdI, Diesel (150HP) | 2000 | ISO 9141 | |
| Diesel (148 HP) | 2001 | KW 1281 | |
| 2.4, Gasoline or LPG (165HP) | 2001 | ISO 9141 | |
| 1.9 TDi, Diesel (130HP) | 2002 | ISO 9141 | |
| 2.5 tdi, Diesel (163HP) | 2002 | ISO 9141 | |
| 2.5 V6 tdI, Diesel (180HP) | 2002 | ISO 9141 | |
| 2.7t, Gasoline (250HP) | 2002 | ISO 9141 | |
| 4B 2,5 TDI, Diesel (161 HP) | 2003 | ISO 9141-2 | |
| 4B, Gasoline (218 HP) | 2003 | KW 1281 | |
| 4B Avant 3.0, Gasoline (218 HP) | 2003 | KW 1281 | |
| 4B06H 1.9 TDI, Diesel (135 HP) | 2003 | KW 1281 | |
| 4B, Diesel (178 HP) | 2003 | ||
| Gasoline (242 HP) | 2004 | CAN | |
| 2,5 TDI, Diesel (178 HP) | 2004 | ISO 9141-2 | |
| Gasoline (171 HP) | 2005 | ||
| 2.5 TDI, Diesel (178 HP) | 2005 | ISO 9141-2 | |
| 3.0 TDI (Typ: 4F), Diesel (222 HP) | 2005 | CAN | |
| 3l V6 TDi, Diesel (225HP) | 2005 | CAN 11bit (500kb) | |
| 3, Diesel (233HP) | 2005 | CAN 11bit (500kb) | |
| Diesel (137 HP) | 2006 | ||
| C6, Diesel (137 HP) | 2006 | ||
| 2.7, Diesel (180HP) | 2006 | CAN 11bit (500kb) | |
| Diesel (179 HP) | 2007 | ||
| 2.0 TDi, Diesel (139HP) | 2009 | CAN 11bit (500kb) | |
| Audi A6 Allroad | (4b), Diesel (176 HP) | 2001 | KW 1281 |
| Audi A6 Avant | 2,4 Motor ALF V6, Gasoline (163 HP) | 1998 | ISO 9141-2 |
| 2,4 V6, Gasoline (163 HP) | 1998 | KW 1281 | |
| Diesel (148 HP) | 1999 | ||
| quattro, Gasoline (218 HP) | 2001 | KW 1281 | |
| 2,5 TDI quattro, Diesel (178 HP) | 2003 | KW 1281 | |
| Audi A8 | , Gasoline (227 HP) | 1995 | KW 1281 |
| , Gasoline (401 HP) | 1995 | ||
| 2.5, Diesel (150HP) | 1998 | ISO 9141 | |
| 4.2 V8, Gasoline (340HP) | 1998 | ISO 9141 | |
| 3.7, Gasoline (280HP) | 2002 | KWP SLOW | |
| , Diesel (238 HP) | 2004 | ISO 9141-2 | |
| , Gasoline (330 HP) | 2005 | CAN | |
| Audi Allroad | Gasoline (247 HP) | 2000 | KW 1281 |
| Gasoline (247 HP) | 2002 | ||
| Gasoline (247 HP) | 2002 | ISO 14230-4, ISO 9141-2 | |
| Audi B4 | 2,6 MK ABC, Gasoline (148 HP) | 1993 | KW 1281 |
| 2,6l Avant Quattro, Gasoline (148 HP) | 1994 | KW 1281 | |
| Audi B5 | Gasoline (124 HP) | 1995 | KW 1281 |
| Audi B5 Avant | Gasoline (124 HP) | 1999 | KW 1281 |
| Audi Cabrio | Typ 89 (8H), Gasoline (124 HP) | 2000 | KW 1281 |
| Typ 89, Gasoline (148 HP) | 1995 | KW 1281 | |
| 1997 | ISO 14230-4, ISO 9141-2 | ||
| Gasoline (148 HP) | 1997 | KW 1281 | |
| Audi Coupe | 20V Quattro, Gasoline (165 HP) | 1990 | KW 1281 |
| Gasoline (172 HP) | 1992 | KW 1281 | |
| Typ89, Gasoline (148 HP) | 1995 | ||
| Audi Q5 | Diesel (168 HP) | 2000 | CAN |
| 3.0 TDi, Diesel (190HP) | 2010 | CAN 11bit (500kb) | |
| Audi Q7 | 3, Diesel (211HP) | 2007 | CAN 11bit (500kb) |
| 3, Diesel (240HP) | 2008 | CAN 11bit (500kb) | |
| Audi Quattro | 2.V8 30v, Gasoline (191 HP) | 1997 | |
| Audi S 8 | Gasoline (336 HP) | 1998 | KW 1281 |
| Audi S3 | 2.0 TFSI, Gasoline (265HP) | 2007 | CAN 11bit (500kb) |
| Audi S4 | (B5) , Gasoline (261 HP) | 1999 | KW 1281 |
| 2.7 BiTurbo, Gasoline (258 HP) | 2001 | ||
| Gasoline (326 HP) | 2003 | ||
| 4.2 MPi, Gasoline (344HP) | 2003 | KWP SLOW | |
| Audi S6 | C4, Gasoline (227 HP) | 1995 | KW 1281 |
| (Modell 2001, 4B/C5), Gasoline (322 HP) | 2000 | KW 1281 | |
| Quattro V8 4.2, Gasoline (320 HP) | 2001 | ||
| 4.2 V8, Gasoline (340HP) | 2001 | ISO 9141 | |
| Audi TT | 1.8T, Gasoline (180HP) | 1998 | ISO 9141 |
| Coupe Quattro, Gasoline (222 HP) | 1999 | KW 1281 | |
| quattro, Gasoline (222 HP) | 1999 | KW 1281 | |
| 1.8 quattro, Gasoline (222 HP) | 2000 | KW 1281 | |
| Gasoline (148 HP) | 2001 | KW 1281 | |
| 1.8 Turbo, Gasoline (225HP) | 2001 | ISO 9141 | |
| Roadster, Gasoline (148 HP) | 2002 | ||
| 1.8 T, Gasoline (150HP) | 2002 | ISO 9141 | |
| Gasoline (188 HP) | 2003 | ||
| 1.8 Turbo, Gasoline (163HP) | 2004 | ISO 9141 | |
| 3.2 V6, Gasoline (250HP) | 2006 | CAN 11bit (500kb) | |
| 2.0 TFSI, Gasoline (211HP) | 2007 | CAN 11bit (500kb) | |
| Audi V8 | D11, Gasoline (247 HP) | 1990 | KW 1281 |
Note that list is not 100% complete!
This table provides a valuable starting point for determining the OBD2 protocol used in your specific Audi model and year. When diagnosing your Audi, it is always advisable to double-check your vehicle’s documentation or consult with a professional to confirm the correct protocol.
Alt text: Example snippet of an Audi OBD2 compatibility chart, displaying model, engine, year, and corresponding OBD2 protocol for quick reference.
Understanding OBD2 Protocols Used by Audi
As indicated in the compatibility list, Audi has employed various OBD2 protocols over the years. Here’s a brief overview of the protocols mentioned and their general timeframe of use in Audi vehicles:
- KW 1281: This is an older, proprietary protocol used by VAG (Volkswagen Audi Group) for pre-OBD2 and early OBD2 compliant vehicles. While technically not a standard OBD2 protocol, it was used in many early OBD2 Audi models, particularly in the early to mid-1990s and some models extending into the early 2000s. It typically communicates via the K-line (Pin 7).
- ISO 9141-2: This is a standard OBD2 protocol that was commonly used in European and Asian vehicles. For Audi, ISO 9141-2 was prevalent in models from the mid-1990s to the early 2000s. It also utilizes the K-line (Pin 7) and L-line (Pin 15) for communication.
- ISO 14230-4 (KWP2000): Known as Keyword Protocol 2000, this protocol is an evolution of ISO 9141 and offers faster communication speeds. Audi adopted KWP2000 in some models starting in the late 1990s and early 2000s, sometimes alongside ISO 9141-2. It also primarily uses the K-line (Pin 7).
- CAN (ISO 15765-4): Controller Area Network is the current standard OBD2 protocol and is mandatory for most vehicles manufactured from 2008 onwards. Audi transitioned to CAN bus diagnostics starting in the mid-2000s, with wider adoption from 2005-2008 onward, depending on the model. CAN communication uses Pin 6 (CAN High) and Pin 14 (CAN Low).
Protocol Timeline Summary for Audi (General):
- Pre-1996/Early OBD2: KW 1281
- 1996-2001: ISO 9141-2 (dominant), KW 1281 (in some models)
- 2002-2004: ISO 9141-2, KWP2000 (ISO 14230-4)
- 2005-2007: ISO 9141-2, KWP2000, CAN (transition period, model dependent)
- 2008 and later: CAN (dominant and standard)
These are general guidelines, and specific models within each year range might vary. Always refer to your vehicle’s specifications for definitive protocol information.
OBD-II Cable Schematics for Audi Diagnostics
To interface with your Audi’s OBD2 port, you’ll need appropriate cables and scan tools. Here are some common OBD2 cable schematics that are relevant for Audi diagnostics, covering different protocols:
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OBD-2 ISO 9141-2 (14230-4, KWP2000) simple serial cable: OBD-2 ISO 9141-2 Cable – Suitable for older Audi models using ISO 9141-2 or KWP2000 protocols, primarily communicating through the K-line.
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OBD-2 J1850 PWM, J1850 VPW serial ELM327 cable: OBD-2 J1850 Cable – While J1850 protocols are less common in European vehicles like Audi, some very early OBD2 systems might use them. This cable type is generally less relevant for most Audi diagnostics.
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OBD-2 universal diagnostic cable for PWM, VPW, ISO 9141-2 and CAN ISO 15765-4 CAN, SAE J1850 PWM, SAE J1850 VPW, ISO 9141-2, ISO 14230-4 and SAE J1939: OBD-2 Universal Cable – For comprehensive diagnostics across a wide range of Audi models, especially those from the transition years and newer CAN-based systems, a universal cable or a CAN-specific interface is recommended. Modern diagnostic tools often utilize CAN protocol for faster and more in-depth vehicle communication.
Alt text: Visual representation of various OBD2 cable connector types, highlighting differences in pin configurations and cable structures for different communication protocols.
Conclusion: Empowering Your Audi Diagnostics with Pinout Knowledge
Understanding the Audi OBD2 pinout and the associated communication protocols is fundamental for effective vehicle diagnostics. Whether you are a seasoned mechanic or a car owner keen on DIY maintenance, this knowledge empowers you to:
- Select the correct OBD2 scan tool and interface cable for your specific Audi model and year.
- Troubleshoot communication issues between your scan tool and the vehicle’s ECU.
- Gain a deeper insight into the electronic systems of your Audi.
By utilizing this guide, you can confidently approach Audi diagnostics, ensuring accurate readings and informed decisions regarding your vehicle’s health and maintenance. Always prioritize safety and consult professional resources when performing vehicle diagnostics and repairs.
