It appears you’re encountering a frustrating situation with your 2014 Ford Fusion after a stereo shop worked on it, specifically concerning the OBD2 port. Let’s break down the issue and address your concerns regarding the OBD2 connector pins.
It sounds like you took your 2014 Ford Fusion to a stereo shop for some upgrades. During the installation, the technician needed better access under the dashboard and, in the process, disconnected the OBD2 port, described as a “Module – Smart Data Link – Ford (JG9Z-14F642-A)”. You mentioned the technician noted two flattened pins on the OBD2 connector but straightened them and reconnected everything. Unfortunately, after this, your Ford Fusion began experiencing electrical problems: windows, interior lights, dashboard, and blinkers stopped working, although the engine would still start.
After fuse checks proved fruitless, you had to tow your Fusion to a Ford dealer. The dealer diagnosed the issue by stating the OBD2 port pins were mismatched, implying the unit had been replaced. You’re understandably skeptical, as you witnessed the technician only disconnect and reconnect the original OBD2 port. The dealer’s $400 charge and the suggestion of dishonesty are adding to your frustration. You’re now questioning if Ford might have intentionally flattened pins on some OBD2 ports during manufacturing or if the stereo shop is responsible for the damage.
Let’s clarify a few points regarding your 2014 Ford Fusion Obd2 Pins:
Firstly, it’s highly unlikely Ford would intentionally flatten pins on OBD2 ports as a standard practice. The OBD2 (On-Board Diagnostics II) standard is designed to be universally consistent across vehicles for diagnostic purposes. Manufacturers adhere to strict specifications for the 16-pin OBD2 connector to ensure compatibility with diagnostic tools. Flattening pins would deviate from this standard and cause communication issues.
Secondly, the timeline of events strongly suggests the stereo shop’s work on your 2014 Ford Fusion’s OBD2 port is the likely cause of the subsequent electrical problems. Your vehicle was functioning correctly before you took it to the shop. The technician’s observation of flattened pins and the immediate onset of electrical malfunctions after reconnection point towards potential damage during the stereo installation process. Even if the technician straightened the pins, there could be underlying damage to the connector or the wiring harness.
When a dealer states the “pins didn’t match,” they might not necessarily be accusing you of lying. From their perspective, a damaged or improperly connected OBD2 port can present as a “mismatch” in terms of expected signal continuity and electrical readings. An experienced Ford technician would be able to identify if the OBD2 port has been tampered with or removed, as evidenced by disturbed wiring, tape, or connector seating. While it’s possible the dealer’s communication could have been clearer, their diagnosis likely reflects the condition they observed – a problem with the OBD2 port or its connection that arose after external work.
To directly answer your question: No, Ford does not flatten pins on OBD2 units as a standard practice or to make them work temporarily. The issue you are experiencing with your 2014 Ford Fusion most likely stemmed from the handling of the OBD2 port during the stereo installation.
While the $400 dealer bill is unwelcome, it’s important to understand they diagnosed and potentially corrected the issue. However, given the circumstances, you have a strong case to discuss reimbursement with the stereo shop. They worked on the area, noted pin damage, and the problems started immediately after their service. Politely explaining the situation and the dealer’s findings to the stereo shop manager is a reasonable next step to seek financial compensation for the repair costs. Hopefully, you can resolve this issue and get your 2014 Ford Fusion back to its proper working order.
