For car enthusiasts and especially those who love track days, accessing real-time vehicle data is crucial. Parameters like oil temperature, coolant temp, and engine load are vital for monitoring performance and ensuring engine health. While modern cars generate a wealth of data, accessing it conveniently, particularly through Apple CarPlay, has been a challenge. Many drivers have yearned for a seamless way to display this information directly on their CarPlay screen, eliminating the need for separate gauges or complicated setups.
Finally, a solution has emerged for those seeking to bridge the gap between OBD2 data and Apple CarPlay. The Ontrack OBD2 Scanner app is designed to display a wide array of data directly from your car’s OBD2 port onto your CarPlay display. This innovative app taps into the wealth of information available via your car’s OBD2 system and presents it in an accessible format right on your dashboard screen.
CarPlay display showcasing OBD2 data from the Ontrack OBD2 Scanner app
The beauty of the Ontrack OBD2 Scanner lies in its simplicity and broad compatibility. It works seamlessly with most generic Bluetooth OBD2 readers, avoiding the limitations of proprietary adapters. This means you can likely use a reader you may already own, or easily find an affordable option online. Once connected, the app can pull data from a vast range of sensors within your vehicle, giving you a comprehensive overview of your car’s performance in real-time.
Looking ahead, the developer is committed to enhancing the app further. A user interface refresh is planned to improve usability and aesthetics. Excitingly, session-based recording is on the roadmap. This feature will allow users to record specific driving sessions, such as track days, and analyze data like maximum oil temperature reached during that session. This will be invaluable for performance analysis and vehicle improvement.
For anyone wanting to get started, the Ontrack OBD2 Scanner app is available on the Apple App Store. It’s free to use for monitoring up to two data values, allowing you to experience the core functionality. This app opens up a new level of car data accessibility for CarPlay users, putting vital vehicle information directly in your line of sight.
