Car theft is a persistent concern for vehicle owners, and modern thieves are increasingly sophisticated. One of the easiest points of access for opportunistic theft is your car’s OBD2 port. This port, designed for diagnostics and maintenance, can unfortunately be exploited to bypass security systems. Let’s explore a simple, cost-effective method to deter thieves by addressing this vulnerability: hiding your OBD2 port. While not strictly an “Obd2 Port Extender” in the traditional sense of lengthening the port, we’re using the concept to extend the port’s location, making it less accessible and significantly enhancing your vehicle’s security.
The OBD2 Port Security Problem
The On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) port is a standardized interface found in virtually all modern vehicles. It provides access to the car’s computer system for diagnostics, emissions testing, and performance tuning. However, this convenient access point also presents a security risk. Thieves can utilize readily available tools that connect to the OBD2 port to:
- Disable Immobilizers: Bypass the vehicle’s anti-theft system, allowing them to start the car without the key.
- Reprogram Keys: Introduce a new key into the system, effectively stealing the vehicle.
- Access Vehicle Data: Potentially extract sensitive information or manipulate vehicle functions.
For low-effort thieves looking for a quick score, an easily accessible OBD2 port is an open invitation. Therefore, reducing this accessibility is a smart step in bolstering your car’s security.
Simple DIY Security Solutions: Hiding Your OBD2 Port
One of the most straightforward and cost-free methods to deter OBD2-based theft is to simply relocate or “hide” your factory OBD2 port. This doesn’t require any specialized tools or expertise and can be accomplished in minutes.
The factory OBD2 port is typically held in place by clips that are easily accessible from inside the car’s cabin. By gently depressing these clips, you can detach the port and pull it out from its usual location.
Steps to Hide Your OBD2 Port:
- Locate Your OBD2 Port: Refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual if you are unsure of its location. It is commonly found under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
- Detach the Port: Reach behind the port and locate the retaining clips. Using your fingers or a small tool, gently depress these clips.
- Remove the Port: Once the clips are depressed, you should be able to push the OBD2 port out from the rear, into the cabin.
- Disconnect (Optional but Recommended for Security): Consider unplugging the OBD2 port connector from the back of the port. This further disrupts any attempt to access the vehicle’s system via the port.
- Hide the Port and Connector: Conceal the disconnected port and connector in a less obvious location under the dashboard. Secure it loosely to prevent rattling but ensure it can be retrieved for servicing.
By hiding the OBD2 port, you introduce a significant obstacle for thieves. They expect to find the port in an easily accessible location. A missing or hidden port may deter them entirely, causing them to seek an easier target. Even if they do search for it, the added time and effort increase the risk of detection, making your vehicle less appealing.
This simple modification is entirely reversible and doesn’t damage any vehicle components. When you need to access the OBD2 port for servicing or diagnostics, simply retrieve it from its hidden location and reconnect it.
Creating a Fake OBD2 Port as a Deterrent
For an added layer of deterrence, consider installing a fake OBD2 port in the original location. This can further confuse and discourage thieves.
The idea is to present a port that looks functional but is not connected to the vehicle’s computer system. For this, you can purchase a replacement OBD2 port connector, pins, and retainers.
You can even wire the fake port with a 12V and ground connection. This will power up a thief’s scan tool, making it appear as if the port is functional upon initial inspection. Adding resistors to the data pins could further simulate a connected system, increasing the illusion of a working port.
A thief attempting to use a fake port will quickly realize it’s not providing access, wasting their time and potentially causing them to abandon the attempt altogether.
The “Do Not Do This” Warning: Reverse Polarity
It’s crucial to address a dangerous and strongly discouraged modification: rewiring the OBD2 port with reverse polarity.
DO NOT REWIRE YOUR OBD2 PORT WITH REVERSE POLARITY.
While the idea of damaging a thief’s scan tool might seem appealing, this modification is extremely dangerous and irresponsible. Reversing the polarity can:
- Damage Legitimate Scan Tools: Harm the diagnostic equipment used by mechanics, potentially leading to liability issues if your vehicle is serviced.
- Cause Electrical Fires: Create a fire hazard within your vehicle’s electrical system.
- Be Illegal and Unethical: Subject you to legal repercussions and raise serious ethical concerns about intentionally damaging property and potentially causing harm.
Even placing a warning cover is not sufficient to mitigate the risks and liabilities associated with reverse polarity wiring. This modification should never be attempted.
Using a Protective Cover for Hidden Ports
When you hide your OBD2 port, especially if you choose to leave the connector unplugged, consider using a simple protective cover for the disconnected port and connector. This will help to:
- Protect the Pins: Prevent dust, debris, and accidental shorts to the exposed pins of the connector.
- Maintain Cleanliness: Keep the connector clean and in good condition for when you need to reconnect it.
A basic, inexpensive cover is sufficient for this purpose and adds a touch of professionalism to your DIY security measure.
Conclusion: Simple Steps, Significant Security
Securing your vehicle from OBD2-based theft doesn’t have to be complex or expensive. By simply hiding your factory OBD2 port and considering a fake port deterrent, you can significantly enhance your car’s security and deter opportunistic thieves. These straightforward DIY methods offer a practical and cost-effective way to protect your vehicle without resorting to dangerous or unethical modifications. Remember, every layer of security you add makes your car a less attractive target.
