CAN Plug Information – Installation & Usage Guide

Vehicle Info Submission

[Instructions] CAN Plug Information

by: Kevin Toped -

Installing L5P CAN Plugs After Emissions Removal

L5P CAN plugs are designed to maintain CAN network functionality after removing emissions components from your vehicle. These plugs have fine terminals that align with the factory harness, so handle them carefully during installation to prevent damage.

⚠️ Critical Safety Precaution

Always disconnect the vehicle’s battery before installing or removing CAN plugs to prevent communication errors in the CAN network.

Installation Best Practices

Before installing, clean the connector contacts on your vehicle. Use Electrical Contact Cleaner and apply Dielectric Grease to prevent corrosion and ensure a solid connection.

For best results, plug in the CAN connectors before reconnecting the battery. After flashing your SOTF tune, scan for error codes. This helps catch any connection problems while the emissions system is still active, making it easier to clear any errors.

Connection Preparation:

  • Clean contacts with Electrical Contact Cleaner
  • Apply Dielectric Grease

Detailed Installation Sequence

  1. Disconnect the Vehicle’s Battery: Before installing or removing CAN plugs, disconnect the battery to avoid communication errors in the CAN network.
  2. Clean the Connector Contacts: Use Electrical Contact Cleaner and apply Dielectric Grease on the contacts to ensure a secure and corrosion-free connection.
  3. Install the CAN Plugs: Install the CAN plugs while the battery is still disconnected.
  4. Reconnect the Batteries: After installing the CAN plugs, reconnect the battery.
  5. Flash Your SOTF Tune: Once the battery is reconnected, flash your SOTF tune to update the vehicle’s system.
  6. Scan for Error Codes: Finally, scan for error codes while the emissions system is active to identify any connection issues early.

NOx Module Replacement

The black 6-pin plugs are used to replace the NOx modules that get disconnected when the factory exhaust system is removed. For vehicles from 2017 to 2019, three NOx plugs are required. For models built in 2020 or later, only two NOx plugs are needed.

You will find the NOx modules during the exhaust removal process. If you’re unsure, trace the sensors from the exhaust to the module, which will look like this:

One of these modules can be found in the engine bay, typically near the driver-side corner of the firewall as shown below:

2017-2019 Models

2020+ Models

DEF Connector Specifications

For DEF connector replacement, use 16-pin plugs for 2017-2019 models and 30-pin plugs for 2020+ models. These plugs keep the CAN network working after removing factory modules and can be swapped back for testing if needed. You can leave the DEF connector plugged in, but keeping the NOx modules installed may lead to sensor failure over time.

Other modules are located under the vehicle. On 2017-2019 models, the DEF connector is on the passenger-side frame rail. For 2020+ models, it’s on the driver-side frame rail.

2017-2019: 16-pin plugs
(Passenger side frame rail)

2020+: 30-pin plugs
(Driver-side frame rail)

Module Identification Gallery

⚠️ Long-Term Maintenance Notes

  • DEF connectors can remain installed permanently
  • Retained NOx modules may experience sensor degradation
  • Original modules can be reinstalled for diagnostic testing