Custom OBD & OBD2 Cable Assembly Manufacturer

Yihetai manufactures custom OBD and OBD2 cable assemblies for automotive diagnostic tools, vehicle tracking devices, fleet management systems, data loggers, aftermarket electronics and other automotive communication applications.

As an experienced wire harness and cable assembly manufacturer in China, we support OEM and ODM projects that require customized OBD connector types, pin assignments, cable lengths, wire gauges, jacket materials, shielding, overmolding, labeling and end terminations.

For broader vehicle wiring projects, Yihetai also manufactures custom automotive wire harness assemblies for automotive electronics, sensors, control modules and aftermarket devices.

What Is an OBD Cable Assembly?

An OBD cable assembly is a customized automotive diagnostic cable used to connect a vehicle OBD port with diagnostic tools, telematics devices, GPS trackers, data loggers, ECU testing equipment or OEM electronic devices.

OBD2 cable assemblies commonly use 16-pin diagnostic connectors. Depending on the application, the opposite end may be DB9, RJ45, USB, open wires, terminals, JST, Molex or another customer-specified connector.

 

OBD Cable Assembly Is More Than a Standard Diagnostic Cable

A standard OBD cable may be enough for simple diagnostic use, but OEM projects often require customized wiring, connector orientation, device-side interface and installation design.

For example, a fleet management device may need a short OBD pigtail cable with hidden installation. A GPS tracker may need power, ground and CAN signal wiring. A diagnostic tool may need an OBD to DB9 or OBD to USB cable. A telematics device may require an OBD splitter cable so that the vehicle diagnostic interface can still be accessed.

Design FactorWhy It Matters
OBD Connector TypeMust match the vehicle diagnostic port or device interface
Male / Female ConnectorDetermines connection direction and mating device
Pinout DefinitionPrevents wrong communication, power, or ground connection
Cable LengthAffects installation routing and device placement
Opposite-End ConnectorDB9, RJ45, USB, open-end, or custom connector may be required
Cable Exit DirectionStraight, angled, or side-exit design may affect installation space
ShieldingHelps maintain signal stability in automotive environments
OvermoldingImproves strain relief, durability, and professional appearance
LabelingSupports installation, device identification, and batch control
Electrical TestingConfirms continuity, pinout accuracy, and short/open status

This is why custom OBD cable assemblies should be designed according to the diagnostic device, vehicle installation environment and customer wiring requirement.

OBD Cable Assembly Types We Manufacture

Yihetai supports a wide range of OBD and OBD2 cable assembly designs, including:

OBD Pinout & Wiring Design

For OBD cable assemblies, pinout accuracy is critical. A wrong power, ground, CAN or signal connection may cause communication failure, unstable device operation or diagnostic errors.

Yihetai can manufacture OBD cables according to customer pinout drawings, device wiring requirements, samples or application-specific wiring definitions.

Wiring ItemWhy It Matters
Pin AssignmentDefines power, ground, and communication lines
CAN High / CAN LowCommonly used for vehicle communication
K-LineUsed in selected diagnostic communication applications
Battery PowerProvides power to diagnostic or telematics devices
Signal GroundImportant for stable electrical reference
Custom PinoutRequired when connecting to OEM devices
Wire Color CodingHelps assembly, installation, and maintenance
Shield ConnectionHelps signal stability when shielding is required
Pinout TestPrevents wrong wiring before shipment
Approved SampleHelps maintain batch wiring consistency

OBD Cable Pin Assignment & Wiring Definition

For custom OBD cable projects, wiring definition is one of the most important engineering details. A correct pin assignment helps ensure stable power connection, signal transmission and device communication.

Before production, Yihetai recommends confirming the OBD pin number, signal name, wire color, wire gauge, destination connector, destination pin, shielding requirement and label requirement according to the customer drawing, device interface or sample cable.

Example OBD Wiring Definition

The following is only an example. Final wiring should always follow the customer’s pinout drawing or approved sample.

OBD PinSignal NameWire ColorDestination
OBD Pin 6CAN HighGreen WireDevice Pin 3
OBD Pin 14CAN LowWhite WireDevice Pin 4
OBD Pin 16PowerRed WireDevice Pin 1
OBD Pin 4 / 5GroundBlack WireDevice Pin 2

For OBD to DB9, OBD to RJ45, OBD to USB, OBD to open-end or OBD splitter cable assemblies, pinout accuracy is critical. A wrong CAN, power or ground connection may cause communication failure, unstable device operation or diagnostic errors.

Yihetai can manufacture custom OBD cable assemblies according to your wiring table, pinout drawing, device connector definition or existing sample. Pinout verification, continuity testing and short/open testing can be arranged before shipment according to agreed inspection requirements.

OBD Connector, Overmolding & Cable Structure Options

Different OBD cable projects require different connector shapes, cable exit directions, opposite-end connectors and protection structures. Yihetai can customize OBD cable assemblies according to your device and installation requirement.

Custom ItemAvailable Options
OBD ConnectorJ1962 16-pin OBD2 male, female, Type A, Type B, or customer-specified
Connector GenderMale, female, male-to-female, splitter, or custom structure
Cable ExitStraight, angled, side-exit, or custom direction
HousingMolded housing, assembled shell, or custom design
Opposite EndDB9, RJ45, USB, open-end, terminal, JST, Molex, or custom
Cable TypeMulti-core cable, shielded cable, twisted pair, or custom cable
ProtectionOvermolding, heat shrink, sleeve, label, or strain relief
Branch StructureStraight cable, Y-splitter, branch harness, or pigtail cable
LabelingPart number label, barcode label, device label, or customer logo
PackagingBulk packing, individual packing, or customer-specified packing

OBD to DB9, RJ45, USB and Custom Connector Options

Many OBD cable assemblies are not simple OBD-to-OBD cables. OEM diagnostic and telematics projects often require OBD connectors combined with different device-side interfaces.

Cable Structure Typical Application
OBD to DB9 Cable Diagnostic equipment, serial interface, or CAN-related devices
OBD to RJ45 Cable Telematics gateway, fleet device, or custom data module
OBD to USB Cable Diagnostic interface, data transfer, or device connection
OBD to Open-End Cable OEM wiring, testing equipment, or custom device integration
OBD to Terminal Cable Control box, test fixture, or equipment wiring
OBD to JST / Molex Cable Internal electronic device or PCB connection
OBD Y-Splitter Cable Multi-device connection or shared diagnostic interface
OBD Pigtail Cable Short wiring adapter for hidden installation

Yihetai can customize connector combinations, pinout, cable length, labels and packaging according to customer device requirements. For diagnostic equipment and CAN-related test devices, Yihetai can also provide custom D-sub cable assemblies with defined pinout, shielding and overmolded connector options.

Vehicle Communication Protocols for OBD Cables

Different vehicles and diagnostic devices may use different communication protocols. The OBD cable structure should match the actual diagnostic device and vehicle system.

Common protocols include:

  • CAN Bus
  • CAN FD
  • K-Line
  • ISO9141
  • ISO14230
  • J1850 PWM
  • J1850 VPW
  • UDS
  • Manufacturer-specific communication

For CAN, CAN FD and other EMI-sensitive vehicle communication circuits, Yihetai can also design custom EMI shielded cable assemblies to help improve signal stability.

Application-Specific OBD Cable Design Notes

Different OBD applications require different cable structures, pinout and installation designs. Yihetai can help review your project and recommend a suitable OBD cable assembly solution.

ApplicationDesign Considerations
Vehicle Diagnostic ScannerOBD connector fit, pinout, and cable flexibility
OBD2 ScannerMale/female connector, cable length, and strain relief
GPS TrackerCable length, hidden installation, and stable power wiring
Fleet Management DeviceOBD connection, branch structure, and device-side connector
Telematics DevicePower, ground, CAN signal, and custom connector
ECU Testing ToolPinout accuracy, shielding, and repeated plugging durability
Data LoggerSignal stability, cable routing, and connector matching
Automotive Test EquipmentDurability, labeling, and electrical testing
OEM Automotive ElectronicsCustom pinout, sample matching, and batch consistency
Vehicle Interface AdapterConnector matching, cable exit direction, and device layout

OBD cable assemblies should not be selected only by connector shape. Correct design depends on vehicle interface, diagnostic device, wiring requirement, installation space and electrical test requirement.

Key Features of Our Custom OBD Cable Assemblies

  1. J1962 16-pin OBD2 male and female connector options
  2. OBD2 extension cable, splitter cable, pigtail cable and adapter cable structures
  3. OBD to DB9, RJ45, USB, open-end, terminal, JST, Molex or custom connector options
  4. Custom pinout, CAN wiring, power, ground and customer-specific wiring support
  5. Straight, angled, side-exit and molded cable exit options
  6. Multi-core cable, twisted pair and shielded cable options
  7. Custom cable length, wire gauge, label, barcode and packaging
  8. Overmolding, strain relief, heat shrink and sleeve protection available
  9. Suitable for diagnostic tools, GPS trackers, telematics devices and automotive electronics
  10. Continuity, pinout, short/open and visual inspection before shipment

Applications of Custom OBD Cable Assemblies

Custom OBD cable assemblies are widely used in automotive diagnostic, telematics, tracking and vehicle electronic device applications. For related vehicle wiring, Yihetai also provides custom automotive wire harness cable assembly and custom EV wire harness cable assembly solutions.

Vehicle Diagnostic Tools

Custom OBD cables for diagnostic scanners, vehicle testing tools and service equipment.

OBD2 Scanners

OBD2 male or female cable assemblies for scanners, readers and automotive diagnostic devices.

GPS Tracking Devices

OBD pigtail cables and custom OBD adapters for GPS trackers and hidden vehicle installation.

Fleet Management Systems

OBD splitter cables and device-side connector cables for fleet monitoring equipment.

Telematics Devices

OBD cable assemblies for vehicle data collection, power connection and communication modules.

ECU Testing Equipment

Custom OBD to DB9, OBD to open-end or special wiring cables for ECU testing and development.

Data Loggers

OBD cables for automotive data recording, monitoring and vehicle interface equipment.

OEM Automotive Electronics

Custom OBD wire harnesses for vehicle electronic devices, test modules and aftermarket products.

Ready to Discuss Your OBD Cable Application?

Send us your drawing, sample or basic requirements. Our engineering team will review your project and provide a quotation within 24 hours.

OBD Cable Assembly Quality Control

Yihetai implements full-process quality control with documented ISO systems, from incoming inspection to final packaging, ensuring every OBD cable assembly meets specs. Our engineers oversee each stage to prevent defects and maintain traceability. We are certified to ISO 9001:2015, UL, and IATF 16949 standards, validating our expertise as a wire harness manufacturer for automotive and electronics.

Specific inspection items include:

Why Choose Yihetai?

Example Custom OBD Cable Assembly Projects

Every OBD cable project has different connector, pinout, installation and device-side interface requirements. Yihetai can customize OBD cable assemblies according to customer drawings, samples or application requirements.

Case 1: OBD2 Extension Cable for Diagnostic Tool

Customer Requirement

The customer needed an OBD2 extension cable to connect a diagnostic scanner to the vehicle OBD port. The cable needed stable connection, suitable length and durable molded connector structure.

Yihetai Solution

Yihetai reviewed the customer’s sample and cable length requirement before production.

Our support included:

  • OBD2 male and female connector matching
  • Custom cable length
  • Molded strain relief design
  • Pinout confirmation
  • Continuity and short/open testing
  • Final visual inspection

Result

The finished cable supported diagnostic tool connection and provided stable extension between the vehicle port and scanner device.

Case 2: OBD2 Splitter Cable for Telematics Device

Customer Requirement

The customer needed an OBD2 splitter cable for a telematics device while keeping another diagnostic connection available.

Yihetai Solution

Yihetai customized the branch structure according to the device layout and wiring requirement.

Our support included:

  • OBD2 Y-splitter cable structure
  • Custom branch length
  • Device-side connector matching
  • Power, ground and signal wiring confirmation
  • Cable label support
  • Pinout and continuity testing

Result

The splitter cable helped the customer install a telematics device while maintaining practical vehicle diagnostic access.

Case 3: OBD to DB9 Cable for Test Equipment

Customer Requirement

The customer needed an OBD to DB9 cable for automotive test equipment with a defined pinout and stable signal wiring.

Yihetai Solution

Yihetai manufactured the cable according to the customer’s pinout table and connector requirements.

Our support included:

  • OBD connector selection
  • DB9 connector matching
  • Custom pinout wiring
  • Shielded cable option when required
  • Pinout verification
  • Final electrical inspection

Result

The cable was suitable for the customer’s automotive test equipment and helped support stable device connection.

 

How to Choose an OBD Cable Assembly

When choosing an OBD cable assembly, engineers should confirm the OBD connector type, male or female structure, cable length, wiring map, other-end connector type, device function, shielding requirement, jacket material and usage environment.

For diagnostic tools, connector durability and repeated plugging performance are important. For telematics or fleet management devices, cable routing, splitter structure, compact installation and stable data connection should be considered. For OBD to USB or OBD to DB9 cables, pin assignment and signal compatibility should be carefully confirmed before production.

If the cable is used in workshops, vehicles or repeated-use diagnostic devices, overmolded strain relief, flexible jacket material, clear labels and 100% electrical testing are recommended.

Selection ItemWhat to Confirm
Connector TypeOBD male, OBD female, OBD2 / J1962 connector
Cable StructureExtension cable, splitter cable, adapter cable, open-end cable
Cable LengthCustomized according to vehicle or device layout
Other EndOBD, USB, DB9, JST, Molex, terminal, open-end or custom connector
Pin AssignmentStandard or custom wiring map
Cable FunctionDiagnostics, telematics, data logging, testing, power/data connection
ShieldingShielded or non-shielded cable if required
Jacket MaterialPVC, TPE or customer-specified material
MoldingOvermolded connector, strain relief, custom mold shape
TestingContinuity, pin mapping, open/short test, insulation resistance

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Yihetai can customize the pinout according to your electrical diagram, vehicle interface, diagnostic device or communication module. You can send us a pinout table, sample cable, PCB connector requirement or wiring schematic. Our engineering team will review the wire sequence, signal definition, connector orientation and assembly feasibility before production.

Yes. Yihetai can manufacture OBD2 cable assemblies according to your custom pinout, wiring diagram, sample or device requirement. We can connect only the pins your device needs, such as power, ground, CAN-H, CAN-L, K-Line or other signal pins.

Yes. We can add fuse holders, switches, LED indicators or other components according to your electrical design and product structure.

For a fast quotation, please provide drawings, photos, samples or specifications showing the OBD connector type, cable length, wire gauge, pinout, device-side connector, jacket material, shielding requirement, labeling, testing standard and estimated order quantity. If you only have an application idea, our team can help evaluate a suitable custom wiring solution.

Yes. Yihetai supports prototype samples, engineering validation, small-batch production and mass production. For new OBD cable assembly projects, we can first make samples for fit, function and electrical testing. After your approval, we can move to batch production with controlled process documents, inspection standards and consistent quality requirements.

Custom OBD Cable Assembly for Your Device

A reliable OBD cable assembly must match your device design, vehicle connection requirements and production quality standards. Yihetai helps automotive electronics manufacturers, diagnostic equipment brands, telematics companies and OEM customers develop custom OBD cable assemblies from design review to mass production.

If you are looking for a custom OBD cable assembly manufacturer in China, Yihetai can support your project with engineering assistance, flexible customization, stable quality and competitive manufacturing cost.

Ask For A Quick Quote

We will contact you within 24 hours, please pay attention to the email with the suffix “info@yihetai-cable.com”