The UltraGauge OBD2 scanner has emerged as a popular choice for car enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike, seeking a comprehensive vehicle monitoring solution without breaking the bank. As a cost-effective alternative to pricier scan tools like the ScanGauge II, the UltraGauge offers a plethora of features, from real-time gauges to diagnostic capabilities. This in-depth review will explore the UltraGauge OBD2, examining its functionalities, ease of use, and overall performance, to help you determine if it’s the right tool for your automotive needs.
Unboxing and Initial Setup
Ordering the UltraGauge is a straightforward process through their official website, http://www.ultra-gauge.com/. The ordering experience, as highlighted in user feedback, is commendable, with prompt email confirmations for payment, order placement, and shipping updates. Shipping is reasonably priced and efficient, typically via Priority Mail.
The product packaging includes the UltraGauge unit itself, a high-quality windshield mount, and Velcro strips for alternative mounting options. The windshield mount is particularly noteworthy for its robust build and secure adhesion, ensuring the gauge stays firmly in place even on bumpy roads. A lock ring is also provided for the mount, intended for users who might experience excessive pivoting, although most users find it unnecessary for regular use.
Image showing a typical lower driver’s side windshield mount location for the UltraGauge OBD2 scanner, emphasizing ease of visibility and access.
Comprehensive Gauge Support and Customization
One of the standout features of the UltraGauge is its extensive support for up to 74 different gauges. The actual number of gauges readable will depend on your vehicle’s make and model, specifically if it’s OBD-II compliant. For instance, a ’96 LX450 and an older 80 series Land Cruiser both reported 33 available gauges upon initial scan.
The supported gauges cover a wide spectrum of vehicle parameters, providing valuable insights into your car’s real-time performance. These include:
- Engine Performance: % Engine Load, RPM, Timing Advance, Throttle Position %
- Temperature Monitoring: Coolant Temp (°F), Intake Air Temp (°F), UltraGauge Temperature (°F)
- Fuel System: Short fuel trim bank 1, Long fuel trim bank 1, Bank1 O2 1 & 2 Voltage, Mass Airflow (g/s), Instantaneous MPG, Average MPG, Fuel Level (gallons), Fuel Used (gallons/hour)
- Trip and Distance Data: Average MPH (general/trip), Run Time (general/trip), Distance (general/trip/oil/service), Distance to Empty, Time to Empty
A detailed user manual, available at http://ultra-gauge.com/ultragauge/support/ultragauge_user_manual.pdf, provides comprehensive explanations for each gauge, enhancing user understanding and effective utilization.
Beyond the numerical gauges, the UltraGauge incorporates two permanent indicators: a heartbeat icon, confirming continuous data reception from the ECU, and an open/closed loop indicator, located in the display’s upper right corner.
Users can customize the display to show up to six gauges per page across three available pages. While the gauge selection process can be slightly intricate, it allows for tailored information display. However, a limitation is that each gauge can only be displayed on one page at a time, requiring careful planning for optimal information organization.
Image illustrating an alternative mounting location for the UltraGauge, positioned near the rearview mirror to minimize visual obstruction and maintain a clean dashboard.
Configurable Alarms for Vehicle Protection
The UltraGauge enhances vehicle monitoring with customizable alarms, offering both visual and audible alerts for critical parameters. Users can adjust the alarm sound frequency within a 3,000 to 5,000 Hz range to suit individual hearing preferences. However, the alarm volume has been noted to be relatively quiet, potentially challenging to hear at higher speeds or for those with mild hearing impairments. Despite the volume, the gauge repetitively triggers alarms until the issue is addressed or manually dismissed, ensuring attention to potential problems.
Alarm triggers can be set for trouble codes (CEL) and, theoretically, pending trouble codes, although pending code alarm functionality may vary across different ECU types. Min and max alert thresholds can be configured for any monitored gauge. Default alarm settings include:
- Temperature: Engine Coolant Temperature (Max 250°F), Intake Air Temperature (Max 210°F), UltraGauge Internal Temperature (Max 145°F)
- Performance: RPM (Max 4000), MPH (Max 90)
- Maintenance: Oil Change Distance (Max 3,000 miles), Service Distance (Max 30,000 miles)
- Fuel: Fuel Level (Min 0.5 gallons), Distance to Empty (Min 5 miles)
These default settings are generally conservative and may need adjustment based on specific vehicle requirements and user preferences. For example, adjusting the Coolant Temp alarm to 210°F provides an earlier warning signal, well below critical overheating thresholds.
Mounting Flexibility and Considerations
The included windshield mount offers considerable flexibility in mounting locations. While the lower driver’s side corner is a common initial placement, factors like direct sunlight exposure can lead to elevated gauge temperatures, as reported in user experiences where the gauge reached 180°F on a hot day.
Alternative mounting positions, such as near the rearview mirror, can mitigate heat issues and offer less obstructed visibility. This location keeps the gauge out of direct sunlight and within the driver’s line of sight, albeit requiring a slightly different viewing habit similar to checking the rearview mirror. The cable length is sufficient for various mounting positions.
Image showcasing another mounting option, possibly on the dashboard or using a custom mount, to illustrate the versatility of the UltraGauge OBD2 in different vehicle interiors.
Calibration for Accuracy
For accurate MPG and distance readings, the UltraGauge allows for calibration adjustments based on factors like gear ratio and tire size. Users have shared calibration settings for various tire sizes:
- Stock Gearing, 315/75r16 Tires: MPG 1.1, Distance 1.15
- Stock Gearing, 285/75r16 Tires: Distance 1.054
- Stock Gearing, 37×12.5×16.5 Tires: Distance 1.215
These figures serve as starting points, and fine-tuning may be necessary based on tire wear, tire pressure, and driving conditions.
CIMG_2010-08-25-091834.jpg
Conclusion: Is the UltraGauge OBD2 Right for You?
The UltraGauge OBD2 presents a compelling package for vehicle owners seeking an affordable yet feature-rich OBD2 scanner. Its extensive gauge support, customizable alarms, and flexible mounting options make it a versatile tool for monitoring vehicle health and performance. While the alarm volume and gauge selection process could be improved, the UltraGauge delivers significant value, particularly for its price point. For users looking for a comprehensive OBD2 monitoring solution without the premium price tag of high-end scan tools, the UltraGauge OBD2 is definitely worth considering.
