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Replacement OBD2 connector/cable?

Discussion in '3rd Gen. Tacomas (2016-2023)' started by Ruminator, Aug 3, 2021.

  1. Aug 3, 2021 at 2:30 PM
    #1
    Ruminator

    Ruminator [OP] Chairman of the Bored

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    Alright doll-face, c'mon and bore me!
    Does anyone make an OBD2 splitter or "T" cable that mounts the same as, and can replace the under-dash connector?

    Reason I'm asking is that I have a SyncUp device from T-Mobile that plugs into the OBD port and acts as a wi-fi hotspot and also a tracker. I'd like to tuck it up under the dash (I keep hitting it with my knee), yet leave a connector in the factory spot for service and EPA testing.

    I've heard of people replacing the factory under-dash connector with a dummy because, apparently, there is some OBD hack that can allow a (really smart) thief to start the vehicle. I guess I'm not really worried about this (haven't met many really smart thieves).
     
  2. Aug 3, 2021 at 3:25 PM
    #2
    chstaco

    chstaco Well-Known Member

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    Seems to be a bunch of options on Amazon and eBay if you search 'obd2 splitter' $10-$15 is probably worth the gamble.
     
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    Ruminator[OP] likes this.
  3. Aug 3, 2021 at 3:29 PM
    #3
    Mike402

    Mike402 Well-Known Member

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    That's actually pretty cool. I'll have to see if Verizon offers a similar device
     
  4. Aug 3, 2021 at 3:30 PM
    #4
    Ruminator

    Ruminator [OP] Chairman of the Bored

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    Alright doll-face, c'mon and bore me!
    Oh yeah, they've got quite a selection. I was wondering if anyone had actually done this and could tell me which cable will mount in place of the factory connector. It would save some time.
     
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  5. Aug 3, 2021 at 3:35 PM
    #5
    Ruminator

    Ruminator [OP] Chairman of the Bored

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    Alright doll-face, c'mon and bore me!
    Note sure about Verizon, but I think Sprint has something similar.

    I'm looking for an app that will work with my Android phone location data and the SyncUp Drive. In theory, such an app could guide you to your truck. No more wondering "Now where the hell did I park?".

    Pro Tip: For anyone else interested, you can get the hardware for cheap off evilBay (from someone who dropped the service). No need to pay full price for the dongle from the carrier.
     
    Last edited: Aug 3, 2021
  6. Aug 3, 2021 at 4:15 PM
    #6
    Mike402

    Mike402 Well-Known Member

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    Ok yea, Verizon has the 'hum' device, which gives you a wifi hotspot and real time tracking. Just ordered it.

    Now let me know what you find out on a splitter lol
     
    Ruminator[QUOTED][OP] likes this.
  7. Aug 3, 2021 at 4:38 PM
    #7
    Mike402

    Mike402 Well-Known Member

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    Just reading up on it, doesn't look like you can split the data coming from the OBD port. If you have two devices connected, one will receive the data, the other will only get power. So I'm not sure your idea will work if you want to leave your device connected, and then also allow a tech to access your vehicle data at the same time.

    Someone with more knowledge please correct me if I am misunderstanding
     
  8. Aug 3, 2021 at 5:26 PM
    #8
    Ruminator

    Ruminator [OP] Chairman of the Bored

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    2017 Red TRD-Sport, ACLB, MT!!!
    Alright doll-face, c'mon and bore me!
    I'll have to look into it. Seems like there's a large selection of OBD splitter cables out there for a configuration that won't work.

    <edit> I'll need to read up on this further, but a quick scan of the intarwebs says that 2 devices on the OBD port might be a problem (or might not). An easy workaround could be to wire the socket for the SyncUp-type device with a power switch on the dash. Need to take the truck in for service or testing? Shut that device off. I think I'd remove it completely if I were doing something touchy, like updating the ECU.

    <edit again> Simplest solution... Just use an extension cable to get the device out of the way. One with a right-angle plug would be nice, like this one.
     
    Last edited: Aug 3, 2021
  9. Aug 3, 2021 at 8:48 PM
    #9
    Ruminator

    Ruminator [OP] Chairman of the Bored

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    2017 Red TRD-Sport, ACLB, MT!!!
    Alright doll-face, c'mon and bore me!
    Mike402[QUOTED] likes this.

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