So, you’ve got your hands on the P3 V3 Obd2 Gauge for your BMW X3/X4 or other G0x/F9x models? Excellent choice! This digital gauge is a fantastic upgrade, offering a wealth of real-time vehicle data right at your fingertips. The best part? Installing it is surprisingly straightforward. Let’s dive into this simple DIY install guide to get your new P3 V3 OBD2 gauge up and running in no time.
Tools You’ll Need
Before we begin, gather these minimal tools. You likely already have most of these in your toolkit:
- Plastic trim removal tool
- Small pick tool or flathead screwdriver
- Zip ties (a few, small ones)
- Double-sided tape
That’s truly all you need! Let’s get started.
Step-by-Step P3 V3 OBD2 Gauge Installation
1. Weather Stripping Removal
Begin by gently removing the weather stripping located near the dashboard area on the driver’s side. It pulls off easily with a soft, even tug. This will give you access to the side dash panel we need to remove next.
2. Side Dash Panel Detachment
Next, we’ll remove the side dash panel. Using your plastic trim tool, carefully pry around the edges of the side dash panel. Work your way around to disengage the four clips holding it in place. Pull the panel towards the rear of the vehicle to remove it.
Important Note: Pay attention to the top of the panel. There’s a flap that tucks neatly behind the A-pillar trim. When you reinstall the panel later, ensure this flap is inserted first for a proper fit.
3. Vent Trim Disassembly
Now, let’s move to the vent trim piece where the P3 V3 OBD2 gauge will be housed. Using your trim tool again, gently pry under the silver trim at the bottom of the vent, near the door side. There are two clips here. Once those disengage, carefully work your way up the side of the vent. It might require a bit of pressure. Gently pull the vent assembly outwards; you’ll find a wire connector on its backside.
4. Disconnecting the Vent Wire
Disconnect the wire connector plugged into the rear of the vent assembly. You can usually do this by hand. If it’s a bit stubborn, a cloth and needle-nose pliers can help to gently pop it free without damaging the connector. Remove the vent completely.
5. LCD Screen Installation into Vent
For this step, we’ll refer to P3’s official guide for inserting the LCD screen into the vent housing. You can find their detailed instructions linked here: https://www.p3gauges.com/v3-install/
Correction Note: Be aware of a minor error in step 5b of P3’s guide. Instead of using the front peg for the top slat, you’ll need to use the peg located at the end for proper alignment.
Getting all six clips free on the vent slats can be a bit fiddly. A helpful technique is to start with the bottom two clips. Once those are free, gently pull downwards on the bottom slats to keep them disengaged while you work on the side clips, moving from the bottom corner upwards. The last two push clips on the right side can be the toughest. Sometimes, a firm pull is needed, so be prepared for the slats to pop out! Just ensure all four other clips are free before applying more force.
6. Wiring Harness Installation
Now for the wiring! The good news is there’s a direct path to the OBD port from the vent area. Fish the OBD connector of the P3 V3 OBD2 gauge wiring harness up through the vent opening towards the OBD port location under the dash. To manage cable slack and keep the OBD connector accessible (especially if you use your OBD port for other tools), use a piece of tape to secure the wires at your desired length. This prevents the OBD cable from dangling down into the footwell.
7. Reassembly and Gauge Connection
Reinstall the vent assembly, now with the P3 V3 OBD2 gauge screen in place. As you do, route the plug for the gauge screen along the left-hand side of the vent opening, keeping the wiring tidy. Connect both the OBD connector and the screen connector to the P3 control box. Use double-sided tape to secure the P3 control box. A perfect spot is on the topside of the cubby located under the dash. There’s a convenient shelf-like area there. Neaten up any excess wiring, tucking it into the side of the compartment to keep it out of sight and the way.
8. Final Panel Reinstallation
Finally, reinstall the side panel on the dash. Remember to tuck the top flap by the A-pillar behind the trim first for a flush fit. Once the side panel is securely in place, reinstall the weather stripping.
Congratulations! Installation is complete. Piece of cake, right?
Gauge Configuration
Your P3 V3 OBD2 gauge will likely come pre-configured for your vehicle. However, it’s always a good idea to verify the settings. A comprehensive configuration guide can be found here: https://www.p3gauges.com/v3-install/. For B58/S58 BMW engines, here are the key settings:
- Boost Settings (bSt.X): bSt.F – Intake MAP Sensor
- cc.X Settings: cc.F
The P3 V3 OBD2 gauge boasts a wide array of features and real-time readouts. You can customize the display to show the parameters most important to you, and remove any you don’t need. Take some time to review the user guide to fully understand its capabilities and customization options. It’s a powerful tool for monitoring your BMW’s performance!
Addressing the OBD Alarm
BMW vehicles are equipped with an OBD alarm system. If the car is locked and something is plugged into the OBD port drawing power or data, it can trigger the alarm. Here are two solutions to prevent this with your new P3 V3 OBD2 gauge:
- Delayed Locking: Wait approximately 30 seconds after turning off the ignition before locking your BMW. This allows the vehicle’s computers to enter sleep mode, preventing the alarm from being triggered by the gauge.
- Bimmercode Deactivation: Use Bimmercode or similar coding software to disable the OBD alarm feature. In Bimmercode, navigate to the Roof Function Center FZD_08 Module, find the “OBD Alarm” setting, and change it from “Active” (default) to “Not Active”.
With the OBD alarm addressed, you are now all set to enjoy the enhanced vehicle monitoring and performance insights provided by your new P3 V3 OBD2 gauge! Enjoy the drive!
