My Sprinter Van recently failed the smog test due to OBD2 connectivity issues. Neither the technician’s large reader nor his handheld device could establish a connection. Back home, my Innova 3160g code reader also failed, displaying a “failed to connect” error after attempting to auto-negotiate the communication protocol. Innova lists my Sprinter as compatible.
The van’s history is unclear, as I purchased it from an out-of-state insurance auction. It has a NASA sticker and a “Networkfleet” device plugged into the OBD2 port, likely a GPS tracker. I tried connecting both through the device and directly to the Sprinter’s port with the device disconnected, but neither worked. I have since left the device unplugged.
Troubleshooting steps taken:
- Power Verification: Confirmed 12V on pin 16 of the OBD2 port.
- Pin Inspection: Checked for any widened or damaged pins that might hinder connection.
- Fuse Check: Verified that fuse 5 under the steering wheel is intact.
The van was shipped from Virginia to California with a dead battery (common with auction vehicles). After installing a new battery, the van started without problems. Initially, the check engine light illuminated but cleared itself after a few engine starts and stops. The van seems to run fine otherwise. Other online posts describe similar connectivity problems, but those users also reported persistent check engine lights. My issue is unique in that the check engine light is no longer on.
This image shows a typical OBD2 port on a vehicle, similar to the one I am having trouble connecting to on my Sprinter Van. The port appears to be in good condition.
This image depicts a “Networkfleet” device, similar to the one found plugged into my Sprinter Van’s OBD2 port. This device may be interfering with the connection to diagnostic scanners.
My current situation differs because the check engine light is off, leaving me unsure where to troubleshoot next. Could the Networkfleet device be the culprit even when disconnected? Are there other compatibility issues between the Innova 3160g and Sprinter Vans, or should I consider a more advanced scanner like the Autel MD808 Pro? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
