Scangauge Cheap Alternative

I searched a little bit and noticed that some folks mentioned this in other threads but didn't make one dedicated to it, so I wanted to share what I recently got instead of a Scangauge...

I picked up one of these OBD-II readers that outputs a wi-fi signal that your iphone can grab onto and read your system data.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00AOIM2CC/ref=oh_details_o05_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I then got DashCommand from itunes to read the wi-fi signal. The GUI on this app is pretty slick

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/dashcommand-obd-ii-gauge-dashboards/id321293183?mt=8

I've only had it long enough to test it on the way to work and so far it looks like it's running extremely well for a total input cost of $35. For Android users, I believe you can buy a dongle that transmits via Bluetooth and it's about $10 less. iPhones for some reason can't receive data over bluetooth, so the more expensive wi-fi is required.

So far I've monitored my mpg's and engine temps. Very cool for me since I've never had any experience reading OBD stuff. Interested to hear other folks' opinions and what all else I can check from the OBD


Edit: also, wanted to note that the dongle is 2-3 inches long and you can see the end of it when you get in your truck, but if you didn't know what it was it would look like it belonged there

 

For Android a $10 elm clone Bluetooth adapter and the app "torque" give me the gauges that my old Tacoma lacks. I keep a spare adapter in my tool box at work for resetting codes, reading factory pyros, and boost readings on vehicles that don't have the gauges. It's an awesome tool!