SYDNEY: Technological advances have been made for new cars and trucks and those gadgets are becoming available for older vehicles as well. These new advances range from assisting automobile owners in diagnosing their own car related problems without taking them to the dealership for an expensive diagnostic checkup to having heads up displays on the windshield.
BAFX makes a scan tool that is OBD2 compliant will allow owners to self diagnose their car’s glitch. It is a code reader that will spit out error codes to you within seconds. Most OBD2 scan tools work on cars all the way back to 1996.
It will show a code definition on the screen. It is small but powerful and produces the same code results as the larger scanners used by the dealership. The old “check engine” light usually appears on all cars after a few years. This code can be easily detected by an OBD2 scan tool as it easily determines the cause of the error. Prices vary but you can always find one for under $50.
Remote starters have been around for some time, but they continue to get smarter. They come in extremely handy on those hot sticky days or those freezing cold days. New remote starters work with your smartphone.
Viper SmartStart offers an advanced remote start that connects with your smartphone. It enables you to power most everything from your phone, including door locks. So, if you accidentally lock your keys in the car, no worries. As long as you have your smartphone on you, you are safe.
Navdy has come up with an interesting display that project onto your windshield. It is a heads up display that will ensure you never have to look down at your phone again. Although it sounds dangerous, many are indicating that it is a safe and revolutionary accessory to add to your car.
Apple has developed CarPlay, an aftermarket infotainment system. It is designed to act as a go between certain stereo decks (Alpine, Kenwood, Pioneer) and your Iphone. It will turn your deck into an Iphone with the same capabilities of your phone (maps, apps, Siri, texting, emailing, pictures, videos, etc.).
A gadget that is a must have for the car or for home is the Dyson V6 Absolute cordless vacuum. It is completely cordless and comes with attachments to ensure all messes in your car are easily cleaned up. There are various levels of suction and it is small enough to reach the tight, hard to clean spots in your car.
All of these items can be purchased online and some can be purchased in stores. If you desire the technology in a new car but do not want to pay the price, consider these upgrades as an alternative to a new car purchase. The box on the left gives you an idea of prices that you can expect to pay, pictures, and information about each product.
