Understanding your 2015 Subaru WRX involves knowing where critical access points are located on your vehicle. One of the most important of these is the OBD2 port. This port is not just for professional mechanics; it’s a valuable tool for every car owner, especially when performing maintenance tasks like battery replacement. Knowing the 2015 Subaru Wrx Obd2 Port Location and how to utilize it can save you from losing important vehicle memory settings and even assist in diagnosing potential issues.
Locating the OBD2 Port in Your 2015 Subaru WRX
The OBD2 port, or On-Board Diagnostics port (version 2), is a standardized connector used in modern vehicles. For the 2015 Subaru WRX, you can typically find the OBD2 port located beneath the dashboard on the driver’s side.
You’ll want to look in the area under the steering column and above the pedals. In most cases, it’s situated close to the center of the dashboard and often near the hood release lever. It’s usually not hidden behind any panels, making it easily accessible. The port itself is a trapezoid-shaped, 16-pin connector, and you might see the words “OBDII” or similar markings nearby.
[Insert image of a generic OBD2 port location under a car dashboard here]
Alt text: OBD2 port location in a vehicle, typically found under the dashboard on the driver’s side, for diagnostic and maintenance access.
Why the OBD2 Port Matters for Battery Replacement
Disconnecting your car battery in a 2015 Subaru WRX, like in many modern vehicles, can lead to more than just a reset clock. Modern cars rely on constant power to maintain settings in various control modules. These modules “learn” and store data to optimize engine performance and other vehicle functions. When power is lost, these learned settings can be erased. Furthermore, you’ll lose radio presets and clock settings, which is a minor inconvenience.
While some vehicles allow you to use the accessory power outlet to maintain power during battery changes, this method doesn’t work on Subarus because the accessory outlets are not constantly powered. However, the OBD2 port offers an alternative solution. Pin 16 of the OBD2 connector is designed to be constantly powered, making it a potential point to introduce external power to preserve vehicle memory during battery disconnection.
Using the OBD2 Port to Maintain Power: A Temporary Solution
Automotive service centers often utilize the OBD2 port for memory saving during battery replacement. They use specialized adapters that connect a 12V power source, like a jump starter or battery maintainer, to the OBD2 port, specifically pin 16. This provides enough power to the vehicle’s electrical system to keep the modules and memory alive while the main battery is disconnected.
This method is effective as long as you avoid turning on any power-drawing accessories in the car during the process. The modules and computer systems require minimal amperage to retain memory. A typical memory saver setup often uses a 7.5 Amp fuse for protection.
Important Consideration: The 7.5 Amp Fuse
The 7.5 Amp fuse is crucial. It’s designed to protect the system from overload. If you accidentally open a door, turn on the interior lights, or activate any other significant electrical load while the battery is disconnected and power is supplied through the OBD2 port, you risk blowing this fuse. If the fuse blows, you will lose power, and the result is the same as if you had simply disconnected the battery without any memory saving method – settings will be lost.
A blown fuse in this scenario is not related to check engine lights or diagnostic trouble codes. However, if the fuse blows, and you then try to use an OBD2 code reader that relies on the car’s power, it may not function because it won’t receive power through the port.
Avoiding Memory Loss and Potential Issues
To successfully maintain power through the OBD2 port when replacing your 2015 Subaru WRX battery:
- Locate the OBD2 port: As described earlier, it’s under the dash on the driver’s side.
- Use a Memory Saver: Purchase a dedicated OBD2 memory saver tool. These are readily available and inexpensive.
- Connect the Power Source: Connect the memory saver to an external 12V power source before disconnecting the car battery.
- Ensure All Accessories are OFF: Make absolutely sure that all lights, radio, and accessories are turned off. Keep the doors closed to prevent interior lights from coming on.
- Disconnect and Replace Battery: Carefully disconnect and remove the old battery and install the new one.
- Reconnect Battery and Disconnect Memory Saver: After securely installing the new battery, disconnect the memory saver.
By understanding the 2015 Subaru WRX OBD2 port location and utilizing it correctly with a memory saver, you can prevent the inconvenience of resetting your car’s computer and losing important settings during battery replacement. This simple step can contribute to a smoother car maintenance experience. Always consult your vehicle’s repair manual and follow safety precautions when working on your car’s electrical system.
