A simple solution exists for displaying real-time car data like coolant and transmission temperatures on your car’s infotainment screen without purchasing expensive devices. The OBD Fusion app, compatible with both CarPlay and Android Auto, allows for custom sensor data display using a generic OBDII Bluetooth adapter. This eliminates the need for separate gauges and provides a convenient, integrated solution.
A key consideration is selecting a Bluetooth adapter that maintains your phone’s connection to the car, especially for iPhones that utilize both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for connectivity. Some older OBDII adapters may interfere with this dual connection.
The Veepeak OBDCheck BLE+ adapter is a potential solution, boasting compatibility with the OBD Fusion app and utilizing Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) for communication. This potentially allows for simultaneous connection with CarPlay or Android Auto without disrupting phone connectivity. Available for under $30 on Amazon, it presents an affordable option.
The Veepeak OBDCheck comes in two versions: BLE and BLE+. While both offer basic functionality, the BLE+ version leverages ELM327 v2.2 commands compared to the v1.4 commands used by the BLE version. This translates to additional features in the BLE+ version, including real-time sensor readings displayed graphically and a customizable dashboard for prioritizing specific Parameter IDs (PIDs).
This approach leverages the existing connection between the car’s head unit and the CAN network, which already possesses access to all necessary sensor data. It offers a practical and cost-effective method for accessing and displaying vital vehicle information directly on the infotainment system, enhancing the driving experience.
