Car theft is a persistent concern for vehicle owners. With thieves constantly seeking easier methods, targeting the OBD2 port has become a common low-effort attack vector. This port, designed for diagnostics and vehicle access, unfortunately, can be exploited for nefarious purposes. A straightforward and cost-effective deterrent? Making that OBD2 port access less straightforward.
One of the quickest and cheapest methods to enhance your car’s security is by manipulating the factory OBD2 port. This port is typically held in place by simple clips, accessible from inside the car’s cabin. Often, these clips can be depressed by hand, allowing you to detach the OBD2 port from its usual location.
Once removed, you gain access to the wiring harness. At this stage, several options become available for enhancing security. You could intercept the data wires to install a kill switch, effectively cutting off data access. Alternatively, and perhaps more simply, you can hide the entire OBD2 port and harness within the dashboard or behind trim panels, making it inaccessible to a casual thief. Depinning the connector to physically disrupt connections is another option for the more technically inclined.
In this particular 2023 1SS model, only eight wires are utilized in the OBD2 port connection, simplifying the process.
For those needing to understand the wiring in more detail, the schematic and pinout for this OBD2 port are illustrated below. Understanding these diagrams can be helpful if you choose to implement more complex security measures.
Simply removing and concealing the OBD2 port is a free and reversible modification. This action alone might deter opportunistic thieves. A missing, or hard-to-find port can significantly slow down a thief looking for a quick entry point, potentially causing them to abandon the attempt and seek an easier target. When your vehicle requires servicing, the port can be easily retrieved and reconnected. This hidden port method is particularly useful if you use a device that plugs into the OBD2 port for features like AFM deactivation and prefer to keep it out of sight when not needed.
For a more deceptive approach, consider installing a Dummy Obd2 Port in the original location. A thief noticing the missing factory port might become suspicious and start searching. However, a dummy OBD2 port in place could give the illusion of a standard setup, potentially misleading them. For added realism, you could wire the dummy OBD2 port to provide 12V and ground, so a thief’s scan tool would power up, further enhancing the deception. Adding resistors to the data pins could even simulate the presence of data signals.
OEM OBD2 ports, pins, and retainers are readily available and inexpensive from electronic component suppliers like Mouser Electronics.
If you decide to create a dummy OBD2 port that appears functional by providing voltage, you will also need to acquire the necessary pins and retainers, which are also available from suppliers like Mouser.
Update on Pin Compatibility: Please note that there has been a reported discrepancy in previously shared pin information. The following part numbers are user-confirmed compatible pins:
WM3324CT-ND (https://www.mouser.com/ProductDetail/Molex/0504208000).
These parts have been ordered for verification of fitment and compatibility, and are based on GM service manual specifications.
Important Warning: Do Not Reverse Polarity. While tempting, it is strongly advised against rewiring a dummy OBD2 port with reversed polarity (e.g., 12V on ground pins and ground on 12V pin). This dangerous modification could severely damage any scan tool connected to it, whether by a thief or a legitimate service technician. The potential liability for damage to professional diagnostic equipment makes this approach highly inadvisable.
Even a simple warning cover indicating “Do Not Connect” may not fully protect you from liability if a reversed polarity dummy OBD2 port damages a scan tool. Therefore, this method is strongly discouraged.
However, a cheap warning cover can be a good idea when using the hidden port method, primarily to protect the pins from accidental shorts, depending on the port’s relocation.
In conclusion, relocating your OBD2 port or installing a dummy OBD2 port are simple, inexpensive steps you can take to deter car theft. These DIY modifications add a layer of security, potentially making your vehicle a less appealing target for thieves seeking easy access through the OBD2 system.
