Mobile data connections are revolutionizing car maintenance and management. Most car companies now offer telematics services, even in economy cars, allowing you to monitor your vehicle’s status remotely via a smartphone app. But what if your car isn’t equipped with these modern features? Enter the Audiovox Obd2 Car Connection. This device bridges the gap, bringing telematics capabilities to older vehicles.
Retrofitting Telematics with Audiovox OBD2
The Audiovox Car Connection is a compact device that plugs into your car’s OBD-II port, transmitting data to a central server. Compatible with vehicles manufactured in 1996 and later, this device opens up a world of information about your car’s performance and location. Similar to other diagnostic tools, the Audiovox OBD2 solution stands out with its competitive pricing, sleek design, and unique features.
Features of Audiovox OBD2 Car Connection
The Audiovox OBD2 system provides access to vital information through a user-friendly website and a companion smartphone app. Key features include:
Real-Time Location Tracking:
With the Audiovox OBD2 device, you can monitor your car’s location in real-time, with updates every 5 minutes while driving and hourly when parked. This feature is invaluable for parents wanting to keep tabs on their teen drivers or for fleet managers tracking vehicle movements. The website allows you to review past journeys, providing a detailed history of your car’s travels.
Customizable Safety Zones (Geofencing):
The Audiovox OBD2 Car Connection allows you to define up to five geographical zones and receive alerts whenever your car enters or exits these designated areas. This geofencing capability provides an extra layer of security and peace of mind.
Driving Behavior Monitoring:
The Driving Scoring feature tracks driving habits such as hard acceleration and speeding. While potentially controversial for some, this functionality offers valuable insights for parents monitoring young drivers or for businesses aiming to improve driver safety and fuel efficiency.
Engine Health Alerts:
By reading diagnostic trouble codes from your car’s OBD-II port, the Audiovox OBD2 system can alert you to potential engine problems. While it can’t replace a professional mechanic, it can provide early warning signs, potentially saving you from costly repairs down the line.
Maintenance Reminders:
Set mileage-based reminders for essential maintenance tasks, ensuring your car stays in top condition.
Fuel Economy Monitoring:
Track your average fuel economy over a 30-day period. While more detailed trip-by-trip data would be beneficial, this feature provides a general overview of your car’s fuel consumption.
Simple Setup and Affordable Pricing:
Setting up the Audiovox OBD2 device is straightforward: plug it in, create an account, and you’re ready to go. The device itself costs around $170, with a reasonable monthly data plan fee of $10.
Conclusion: Is Audiovox OBD2 Right for You?
The Audiovox OBD2 Car Connection might not be packed with features like remote engine start or door unlock. However, its core strengths lie in its affordability, ease of use, and focus on location tracking and driving behavior monitoring. For parents of teen drivers or those seeking a simple and cost-effective way to add telematics to an older vehicle, the Audiovox OBD2 Car Connection provides a compelling solution. Its ability to monitor location, driving behavior, and basic engine health offers valuable peace of mind and could potentially save you money in the long run.
