J1962 16-pin OBD socket in BMW has a cap that shorts pins

Can somebody explain why BMW cars with the J1962 16-pin OBD socket have
a cap over this socket which shorts out Pin 7 (K-Line), Pin 8
(manufacturer specific) and Pin 16 (+12V unswitched)?

This means that if the OBD socket is covered with this cap (which is
normally the case) that Pins 7 and 8 are connected to +12V continuous
supply.

Is there a problem if I keep the cap removed because I want my scantool
being connected to the OBD socket for an unlimited time?

Many thanks for your help,
Roland

 
Received on Sun Oct 29 03:37:38 2006