Subaru OBD2 Port Location

The OBD-II port on a Subaru vehicle is typically located under the dashboard on the driver’s side. It is often found near the steering column or where the driver’s side door meets the dashboard when it is closed. However, it is always recommended to check the vehicle owner’s manual for the specific location of the OBD-II port on your particular make and model of Subaru.

You must look deep under the dashboard (above the brake pedal) for the 16-pin connector shown below. All Subaru vehicles from 1996 and newer have an onboard diagnostic (OBD) port.

This includes Forester, Impreza, WRX, Legacy, and Outback models.

Subaru OBD-II Port Not Working

There are several common causes for a Subaru OBD-II port not working properly:

1. Loose or corroded connections: The OBD-II port may not be properly connected to the vehicle’s onboard computer, or the connections may be corroded.
2. Faulty OBD-II port: The OBD-II port itself may malfunction and need to be replaced.
3. Fuse issues: A blown fuse for the OBD-II port may be causing the issue, which will need to be replaced.
4. Onboard computer malfunction: The vehicle’s onboard computer may malfunction, preventing the OBD-II port from functioning properly.
5. Battery and power-related issue: If the car battery is weak or does not provide enough power, it can cause the OBD-II port not to work.

It is always recommended to consult the vehicle owner’s manual and have the vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic to determine the exact cause of the problem.

Do all Subarus have an OBD-II port?

All Subaru vehicles manufactured after 1996 are equipped with an OBD-II (On-Board Diagnostics II) port. This port is used for diagnostics to retrieve vehicle information and troubleshoot issues. It is typically located under the dashboard on the driver’s side and is often found near the steering column or where the side door meets the dashboard when it is closed. It is always recommended to check the vehicle owner’s manual for the specific location of the OBD-II port on your particular make and model of Subaru.

What scan tool does Subaru use?

Subaru uses the Subaru Select Monitor (SSM) as its official scan tool. The SSM is a factory scan tool designed to work with Subaru vehicles. It can diagnose and troubleshoot issues, read and clear diagnostic trouble codes, and access vehicle information. The SSM is typically only used by authorized Subaru dealerships and certified Subaru technicians.

Third-party scan tools are compatible with Subaru vehicles, like the YOUCANIC UCAN-II Full System Scanner. This powerful scanner can read and clear codes from different systems in your vehicle. It can also perform tasks that is available on the OEM scanner, like bi-directional controls, maintenance reset functions, and many more.

These tools can perform many of the same functions as the SSM and are typically more affordable and easier for the independent mechanic or car enthusiast.

We hope you find the Subaru OBD2 Diagnostic Port Location guide helpful. Check these troubleshooting and repair guides for more help on your Subaru.