When you plug your tracking unit into the OBD-II port, the device should beep once to confirm it's receiving power. If there's no beep, the device isn't getting power.
Quick Check First
The most common cause is loose connections. Check that the device or cable is fully plugged in to the OBD-II port.
Direct Connection Troubleshooting
If you're plugging the device directly into the OBD-II port:
Unplug the tracker completely
Plug it back in firmly
Listen for the beep
Extension Cable Troubleshooting
If you're using an OBD-II extension cable, try these steps in order:
Check Cable to Port Connection
Turn off the engine
Unplug the cable from the vehicle's OBD-II port
Wait 5 minutes
Plug it back in firmly
Listen for the beep
Check Unit to Cable Connection
If no beep after step 1:
Turn off the engine
Unplug the unit from the cable
Wait 5 minutes
Plug the unit back into the cable
Listen for the beep
Test if the Unit Works
To isolate whether the problem is the cable or unit:
Disconnect the cable from both the OBD-II port and unit
Plug the unit directly into the OBD-II port
If it beeps, the problem is the cable or its fuse
Check the Cable Fuse
Extension cables have a 3A mini-blade fuse (available at auto parts stores):
Open the fuse holder cap
Remove the fuse
Test with a multimeter or replace the fuse
With cable connected to OBD-II port and unit, insert the replacement fuse
Advanced Troubleshooting
Check OBD-II Port Power
Use a digital multimeter to test the OBD-II port voltage on:
Pin 16 (power)
Pin 4 (chassis ground)
Pin 5 (signal ground)
Check Vehicle Fuses
If the multimeter shows 0 volts, check for blown fuses. The OBD-II port is often fused on the auxiliary circuit (usually labelled as "cigarette" on the fuse panel diagram).
If both the OBD-II port and power fuses are fine, the cable or unit may need replacement.
Still Having Problems?
If you've tried all these steps and the unit still isn't receiving power, contact our support team. They can perform additional troubleshooting and arrange a technician visit if needed.
Have this information ready:
Vehicle name and model
Date and time of last report from RAM Tracking
On-site contact name
Engineer visit location (if necessary)