After spending a couple of weeks with the AEM OBD2 Gauge, part of their new X-Series line, I’m ready to share my thoughts. Securing one of these wasn’t easy; my shop had to go directly through AEM because distributors across North America are largely sold out – a clear sign of its popularity. Having used the ScanGaugeII previously, I can confidently say the AEM gauge is a superior choice, justifying its slightly higher price point.
A close-up of the AEM OBD2 Gauge mounted in a car, showcasing its bright red digital display and green circular meter, highlighting its user-friendly interface and aesthetic appeal for monitoring vehicle parameters.
The user-friendliness is immediately noticeable. Unlike the ScanGaugeII, which relied on double-sided tape and awkward mounting due to its long, skinny design, the AEM gauge is designed for gauge pods. Currently, mine is temporarily housed in an inexpensive pod from Amazon, but the plan is to integrate it more seamlessly into the driver’s side vent for a cleaner look. This alone is a significant improvement in terms of installation and aesthetics.
Visually, the AEM gauge is a major step up. The bright red digital display is clear and easy to read at a glance. You can effortlessly toggle through different parameters you want to monitor, with the display intelligently flashing each function before settling on the numerical reading. While the ScanGaugeII offered similar functionality, the AEM’s presentation is simply more refined and visually appealing. The green “meter” encircling the gauge face feels a bit unnecessary to me, but it doesn’t detract significantly from the overall positive impression.
If I have one minor critique, it’s the OBD2 connector orientation. As it is, the cable naturally protrudes outwards from the dash when plugged in. For my current setup, I’ve looped it back and routed it up through the steering column to manage the cable. However, I’m considering sourcing an adapter to reverse the connector’s direction, which would allow for a cleaner, less obtrusive installation. This is a small point, but something to be aware of depending on your mounting preferences.
Despite this minor connector issue, the AEM OBD2 Gauge is undoubtedly a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about monitoring their vehicle’s performance. Beyond real-time data display, it also functions as a code reader, providing engine code diagnostics and even allowing you to clear codes directly. For its enhanced user experience, superior aesthetics, and expanded functionality, the AEM OBD2 Gauge is a solid upgrade over previous generation monitors and a valuable tool for any car enthusiast or DIY mechanic.
