If you know anything about cars and electronics then you might be wondering if Tesla has OBD (On-board Diagnostic)?
After all, access to the OBD port gives you a lot of data about the car and enables you to learn, diagnose and fix things that you otherwise would have no chance with.
Interestingly, OBD became a standard way back in 1988 with an SAE recommendation for all new passenger vehicles, light, and medium-duty vehicles. It was put in place to help measure fuel and exhaust system-related values.
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Does Tesla Have OBD-II?
Given that all vehicles have OBD, it is no surprise that Tesla also has it. In fact, Tesla has the latest standard called OBD2 or OBD-II, which became standard in 1995.
On each of Tesla’s models, there is an OBD2 port under the dash which is accessible with the right tools and adapters.
Tesla OBD Port Location (For Each Model)
There is no standard position for the OBD port on a Tesla, however, I have highlighted the location on each Tesla model below:
Model Y / Model 3
The Tesla Model Y and Model 3 have made the OBD port easier to access by placing it on the door side of the footwell on the driver’s side of the vehicle. You can see an example from the Tesla owners manual in the image below.
Model 3 – Alternative Location
I have also seen confusing information about the Model 3 connector, so here is some extra information.
tesla model 3 diagnostic cable
If you cannot find the OBD connector under the dash, then there appears to be a Tesla Model 3 diagnostic cable behind the center console on the bottom (in the back seat area). It is not an open connector for attaching diagnostics, so be far more cautious about playing with this one. Below is a video from a company that sells OBD adapters with more information. I do not recommend this in any way shape or form.
Model S / Model X
In the Tesla Model S, the OBD-II connecter is located below the main screen. It is relatively simple to get to it, you just have to pull down on the cubby below it to release the clips. The video below shows you how to do it
Tesla OBD2 Adapters
If you want to connect to the OBD-II port you are going to need a specific adapter. The majority are designed to plug into the Onboard Diagnostics and be accessed via bluetooth on your phone. You can then make use of various Apps to view the data that is available.
Just be aware that you need to get the right adapter for your Model Tesla as they have changed over the years and with each model.
Washinglee OBD2 Diagnostic Cable for Tesla Model X and Model S – Sep 2015 Onwards
This is a Model S and X specific adapter for cars built on or after September 2015. Tesla has continubed to develop the OBD connection point so you need to get the exact one for your electric car.
Washinglee OBD2 Diagnostic Cable for Tesla Model 3 Since 2019
No products found.This one is Tesla Model 3 specific for cars built since 2019. Tesla changed the connector in the Model 3 after 2018.
OHP OBD2 Adapter Splitter for Tesla Model 3 & Y
OHP have developed a handy ODB2 adapter that is also a splitter. This is useful for inserting it into the rear console connector where you have to kind of splice it into the current connector in order to add another one in.
OBDLink MX+ OBD2 Bluetooth Scanner for iPhone, Android
The next step is to add an OBD2 to a Bluetooth device such as this great option. Then you can see it on your phone (Android or iPhone) and access it with a Tesla Scan Tool or Apps that are available for reading Tesla CANBUS data.
Note: If you want even more info on the exact OBD-II adapters you need, this site has lots of handy information.
