1st gen 2001–2012
Under the bottom edge of the dash on the driver's side, almost directly below the steering column and tucked up high, beside the hood release handle; on 2008-2012 cars it sits between the parking brake release handle and the hood release. The 16-pin connector faces down toward the floor, so you have to get your head into the footwell and look up with a torch; you cannot see it from the seat. No cover. Same position on every 2001-2012 Escape, Escape Hybrid and Mariner trim; US cars are left-hand drive only. If a tool powers up but will not talk, check for a remote-start or telematics pass-through plugged in behind it.