Are you looking to expand the OBD2 port functionality in your BMW? Many BMW owners find themselves needing to connect multiple devices to their car’s OBD2 port, whether it’s for diagnostics, performance monitoring, or installing aftermarket accessories. The solution is simple: an OBD2 splitter. This guide will walk you through installing an OBD2 splitter in your BMW, ensuring you can connect all your devices without hassle.
Before we begin, let’s gather everything you’ll need for a smooth installation.
What You’ll Need
To complete this installation, you will need to purchase a few specific parts and have some common tools readily available.
Parts to Purchase:
- OBD2 Splitter Bracket: This bracket helps securely mount the splitter in your BMW. You can find a suitable bracket on online marketplaces like eBay. A bracket similar to this one will work: Bracket Link
- OBD II Splitter Cable: The core component, the OBD2 splitter cable allows you to branch out your single OBD2 port into multiple ports. Ensure you choose a quality splitter for reliable connection. A splitter like this is ideal: OBD2 Splitter Link
Tools Required:
- Phillips head screwdriver: For removing screws.
- Small Torx set: BMWs often use Torx screws, so a set is essential.
- Trim removal tool: Plastic trim tools help prevent damage to your car’s interior.
- Mini flat head screwdriver: Useful for releasing small clips and connectors.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Now, let’s get started with the installation process. Follow these steps carefully to install your OBD2 splitter.
Step 1: Accessing the OBD2 Port Area
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Remove Hood Release Handle: Using your Phillips head screwdriver, remove the screw securing the hood release handle located in the driver’s side footwell.
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Remove Torx Screw: Once the handle is off, another screw will be visible. Use your Torx set to remove this screw.
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Detach Weather Stripping and Door Trim: Gently pull back the door weather stripping near the dashboard. Then, remove the black plastic door trim panel.
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Remove Kick Panel: The kick panel surrounding the OBD II port needs to be removed. Carefully pull it towards the transmission tunnel. It’s held in place by two snap clips.
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Disconnect Snap Connector: Use your trim removal tool to detach the snap connector located closest to the trunk release button. Place this connector in a safe spot on the kick panel for reassembly – this will make reinstallation easier later.
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Release Trunk Release Button: Push the trunk release button from behind to dislodge it from the kick panel. Rotate it to see how the wire harness is clipped in. Use your mini flat head screwdriver to gently release the harness. Set the button and the kick panel aside.
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Loosen Lower Dash Panel: Use your Torx set to unscrew the lower dash panel screws. You only need to remove the screw closest to the door and the one immediately to its right (remove 2 out of the 3 screws).
Step 2: Connecting the OBD2 Splitter
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Remove OEM OBD II Port Screws: Locate the two Phillips screws securing the factory OBD II port to the car. Remove both of these screws.
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Connect OEM Harness to Splitter: Take the OEM harness that was connected to the original OBD2 port and plug it into the OBD2 replicator (splitter).
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Mount the First Connector: Take the first connector in the splitter series and plug it into the aftermarket bracket you purchased.
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Connect Auxiliary Devices: Plug any additional devices you want to use into the remaining connectors of the OBD2 splitter.
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Tuck Away Connectors: Slightly pull down the lower dash panel and carefully push the extra splitter connectors up and out of the way behind the dash.
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Re-secure Dash Panel: Screw the lower dash panel back into its place.
Step 3: Finalizing and Reassembly
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Screw in New Bracket: Securely screw the new bracket, now holding the OBD2 splitter, into the original OBD port location.
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Position OEM Harness and Replicator: The positioning of the OEM harness and replicator connection is critical for the kick panel to fit back properly. Ensure it’s neatly arranged. Pay close attention to the trunk release harness positioning as shown in the picture for easier reconnection.
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Reinstall Kick Panel: Put the kick panel back into place. Remember the top snap connector you removed earlier? It’s easier if this connector is already in the kick panel rather than trying to slide the panel over it.
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Reconnect Trunk Release Button: Ensure the trunk release wiring is accessible, and then plug the trunk release button back into its connector.
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Reinstall Door Trim and Weather Stripping: Put the door trim back into its place, followed by the door weather stripping.
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Replace OBD II Access Cover: Finally, replace the OBD II access cover.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully installed an OBD2 splitter in your BMW. Now you can enjoy the convenience of multiple OBD2 connections for all your automotive needs. This simple upgrade allows you to use diagnostic tools, performance monitors, and other OBD2 devices simultaneously, making it a valuable modification for any BMW enthusiast. Enjoy the enhanced functionality of your BMW’s OBD2 port!
