2013 Ford F-150 OBD2 Fuse Location: Finding and Fixing Diagnostic Port Issues

Diagnosing issues with your 2013 Ford F-150 often starts with connecting an OBD2 scanner to the diagnostic port. However, if your scanner isn’t powering up or communicating with your truck’s computer, a blown fuse might be the culprit. Locating the correct fuse for the OBD2 port is crucial for quick troubleshooting and repair. This guide will walk you through finding the 2013 Ford F-150 OBD2 fuse location and understanding the fuse box diagrams to resolve potential diagnostic communication problems.

Your 2013 Ford F-150, like the 2014 model, is equipped with two primary fuse boxes. Knowing where these are located is the first step in identifying and checking the OBD2 fuse. These fuse panels are designed to protect your vehicle’s electrical circuits from overloads, and the OBD2 system is no exception.

The two main fuse box locations in your 2013 Ford F-150 are:

• Passenger Compartment Fuse Panel: Located inside the cabin of your F-150.
• Power Distribution Box: Situated in the engine compartment.

Let’s explore each of these locations in detail to help you pinpoint the fuse related to your OBD2 port.

2014 Ford F-150 fuse box diagram Passenger Compartment Fuse Panel

The Passenger Compartment Fuse Panel is typically the first place to check for fuses related to interior electronics and diagnostic systems. In the 2014 Ford F-150, and likely similarly in the 2013 model, this panel is often located beneath the dashboard on the driver’s side. You may need to look under the steering wheel and possibly remove a small access panel to fully expose the fuse box.

While the diagram provided is for a 2014 model, fuse box layouts for vehicles within the same generation often remain very similar. Consulting your 2013 Ford F-150 owner’s manual is always recommended for the most accurate fuse designations, but the 2014 diagram can serve as a highly indicative reference.

According to the 2014 diagram for the Passenger Compartment Fuse Panel, several fuses could potentially be linked to the OBD2 port, as it’s part of the vehicle’s data communication network. Fuses related to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), data link connector, or instrument cluster could indirectly affect the OBD2 port’s functionality if they are blown.

Here’s a table detailing the fuses in the Passenger Compartment Fuse Panel of a 2014 Ford F-150. While referencing this for your 2013 model, always double-check with your owner’s manual for precise assignments.

Looking at the table, Fuse 24 (15A), labeled “Datalink connector, Steering wheel control module,” is a prime candidate for the OBD2 fuse location in the Passenger Compartment Fuse Panel. The “Datalink connector” is another term for the OBD2 port. Therefore, if your OBD2 scanner is not working, checking this fuse should be one of your first steps.

2014 Ford F-150 fuse box diagram Power Distribution Box

The Power Distribution Box, located under the hood, generally houses fuses and relays for high-power systems in your 2013 Ford F-150, such as the engine, transmission, and braking systems. While less likely to directly house the OBD2 port fuse, it’s still worth understanding its layout in case related issues arise.

Again, while this diagram is for the 2014 F-150, the Power Distribution Box layout is likely to be similar for the 2013 model year. Always refer to your 2013 owner’s manual for the definitive fuse chart.

Below is the fuse and relay listing for the Power Distribution Box of a 2014 Ford F-150.

While the Power Distribution Box may not directly contain a fuse labeled “OBD2” or “Datalink connector,” fuses powering the PCM are located here. For instance, Fuses 26, 75, 76, 77, and 78 in the Power Distribution Box are all related to the Powertrain Control Module. If the PCM is not receiving power due to a blown fuse in this box, it could indirectly prevent the OBD2 port from functioning.

Troubleshooting Steps for a Non-Functioning OBD2 Port in your 2013 Ford F-150:

1. Locate the Passenger Compartment Fuse Panel: Refer to your 2013 Ford F-150 owner’s manual for the exact location, but it’s generally under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
2. Identify Fuse 24 (Datalink Connector): Using your owner’s manual’s fuse diagram or the 2014 diagram as a guide, locate Fuse 24, which is designated for the “Datalink connector” (OBD2 port).
3. Inspect Fuse 24: Carefully remove the fuse and check if the internal wire is broken or melted. A blown fuse will need replacement.
4. Check PCM Related Fuses: If Fuse 24 is intact, investigate the Power Distribution Box under the hood. Examine fuses related to the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) as listed above (Fuses 26, 75, 76, 77, 78 in the 2014 diagram). A problem with PCM power can also disable the OBD2 port.
5. Replace Blown Fuses: If you find any blown fuses, replace them with fuses of the exact same type and amperage rating.
6. Test your OBD2 Scanner: After replacing any blown fuses, try connecting your OBD2 scanner again to see if it now powers up and communicates with your 2013 Ford F-150.

Important Notes:

• Always Consult Your Owner’s Manual: Fuse box diagrams and fuse assignments can vary slightly between model years and trim levels. Your 2013 Ford F-150 owner’s manual is the most accurate resource for your specific vehicle.
• Fuse Amperage: Never replace a fuse with one of a higher amperage rating. Doing so can damage your vehicle’s electrical system and create a fire hazard.
• Underlying Issues: If you repeatedly blow the OBD2 port fuse or PCM fuses, there is likely an underlying electrical problem in your 2013 Ford F-150 that needs professional diagnosis and repair. A short circuit or wiring issue could be overloading the fuse.

By systematically checking these fuse locations and diagrams, you can effectively troubleshoot and often resolve issues related to a non-functional OBD2 port in your 2013 Ford F-150, getting you back to diagnosing and maintaining your truck efficiently. If the problem persists after checking and replacing fuses, it’s recommended to consult a qualified automotive technician for further diagnosis.