Many Ford Explorer owners, especially those with the 2016 model, often search for the OBDII port location for diagnostics or when installing aftermarket accessories. While online forums and guides might offer confusing or inaccurate directions, locating this essential port is straightforward with the right instructions. This guide, crafted by an experienced auto repair professional, will clearly show you exactly where to find the OBDII port and related trailer brake controller plug in your 2016 Ford Explorer, ensuring you can proceed with your automotive tasks efficiently.
To access the necessary area, we’ll begin by removing the lower dash panel and the kick panel situated above the pedals. This process is simpler than you might expect. Start by locating and removing the 7mm bolt near the driver’s knee. Don’t forget the second hidden 7mm bolt, which is tucked away behind the fuse panel cover. Moving down to the pedal area, you’ll find a 10mm nut against the firewall and another 10mm bolt pointing towards the transmission tunnel. Lastly, identify the Christmas tree fastener just below where you initially removed the first bolt.
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Once these fasteners are removed, carefully detach the lower dash panel and then maneuver the kick panel out of its position. Be aware that there are typically two wires connected to these panels. One is for a convenient light above the pedals, and the other is directly for the OBD-II port itself.
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Disconnect the lamp plug to fully detach the panel. Now, using a flat screwdriver, gently release one of the tabs that secures the OBD-II port to its bracket. With the tab released, the OBD-II port will easily pop out. You can now set the panel aside, providing clear access to the area you need to inspect.
By positioning yourself to look up under the dashboard—or using a mirror or camera for better visibility—you will find the plug for the trailer brake controller. This plug is located directly above the brake pedal, situated behind the knee airbag and floor vents. It’s important to note that while you are accessing this area, you are in close proximity to the OBD-II port which is mounted on the panel you just removed.
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In the provided image, the trailer brake controller plug is easily identifiable as the large grey connector. It is mounted to a crossbar, and for most installations, there is no need to detach it from this mounting. You’ll observe a dummy plug inserted into the socket of this connector. To proceed with installing your trailer brake controller, push back the angled tab visible on the dummy plug and simply pull the dummy plug out to remove it.
With the dummy plug removed, the socket is now ready for you to plug in your trailer brake controller harness. This straightforward access ensures a smooth installation process for accessories like the Redarc Tow-Pro, as demonstrated in the original guide. Understanding the location of both the OBDII port, accessed during panel removal, and the trailer brake controller plug will save you time and prevent any confusion during your automotive projects on your 2016 Ford Explorer.
