OBD Port Locator

Where is the OBD-II port?

Every car and light van sold in the UK from 2001 (2004 for diesels) has a standard 16-pin OBD-II diagnostic socket. On most vehicles it sits under the dashboard on the driver's side, within about 60 cm of the steering wheel, often near the fuse box or tucked behind a small trim cover. Some cars hide it in the centre console, behind the ashtray or under the armrest, which is where a quick model-specific answer saves you crawling around the footwell.

This tool gives you the usual location for a given make and model. It is a guide, not a guarantee, since trims and facelifts vary. Inside Autera, the same locator is built into every job, and technicians can confirm the exact spot or add a photo so the next person goes straight to it.

Frequently asked questions

What does an OBD-II port look like?

The OBD-II port is a 16-pin trapezoidal connector, roughly 3 cm wide, usually black or dark grey. It looks like a slightly wider USB socket with two rows of pins. On some vehicles it sits behind a small plastic cover that clips or hinges open.

Do all cars have an OBD-II port?

Every petrol car sold in the UK from 2001 and every diesel from 2004 is required to have a standard 16-pin OBD-II port. Older vehicles may have a manufacturer-specific diagnostic connector or no port at all.

Can I use the OBD port myself or do I need a mechanic?

Anyone can plug a basic OBD-II scanner into the port to read fault codes, check the engine light, and view live data such as engine temperature and RPM. Clearing codes or interpreting complex faults is best left to a qualified technician. The port is designed for easy access and no tools are needed to connect.

Is the OBD port in the same place on left-hand and right-hand drive cars?

The OBD-II port is always on the driver's side, so it swaps sides between left-hand drive and right-hand drive versions of the same model. On a UK right-hand drive car it is on the right side of the footwell; on a continental left-hand drive car it is on the left.

What is the OBD-II port used for?

The OBD-II port lets you plug in a diagnostic scanner to read engine fault codes, check emissions readiness, view live sensor data, and clear warning lights. Garages use it for MOT emissions testing, fault diagnosis, and service resets. It is also used by insurance telematics devices and fleet trackers.

Where is the OBD port on popular UK cars?

The exact position depends on the model, but here are the most common locations:

• Ford Fiesta / Focus — under the dashboard, right of the steering column, behind a small flap.
• Vauxhall Corsa / Astra — below the dashboard on the driver's side, near the bonnet release.
• VW Golf / Polo — below the dashboard to the left of the steering column, behind a removable trim panel.
• BMW 3 Series / 1 Series — in the footwell under the dashboard, often behind a flip-down cover near the fuse box.
• Mercedes A-Class / C-Class — lower dashboard, driver's side, to the right of the steering column.
• Audi A3 / A4 — below the dashboard on the driver's side, near the fuse panel.
• Toyota Yaris / Corolla — under the dashboard to the right of the steering column, no cover.
• Nissan Qashqai / Juke — below the dashboard on the driver's side, near the centre console.

For the exact location on your car, enter the make and model in the locator above.