Many people can relate to the feeling of getting into a car and seeing the “Check Engine” light staring at them. Unfortunately, staring back doesn’t make it go away.
What makes matters worse is that the light can mean anything from a loose gas cap to a damaged fuel injector. So what if wireless technology could diagnose a car in your own garage and walk in to a mechanics knowing what needs fixing?
The Vehicle Diagnostics by Delphi plugs into your car and turns it into a self-diagnosing connected vehicle. Compatible with most cars built after 1996, you can double check to see if it will work for you through the fitment guide.
The device takes advantage of the Verizon Wireless network and securely uploads
vehicle data to the cloud so you can track your car’s health on a smartphone via a downloadable app. The app lets you check vital information, including fuel level and battery voltage, and has the capability to turn certain smartphones into key fobs used to lock or unlock doors on compatible cars.
If you’re a parent, you may appreciate keeping tabs on first time drivers through email alerts. A virtual geo-fence can be set up so when a connected vehicle leaves the designated area, an alert is sent. Vehicle Diagnostics will let you know if your car is exceeding 75 mph on the road, helping you keep track of lead foot drivers behind the wheel.
The module will be available online starting March 28 for $249.99. Verizon Wireless customers can add the Vehicle Diagnostics by Delphi to Share Everything accounts for $5 per month. The first two years of Delphi Connected Car Account access is included.
