Set Up an OBD2 Live Data Dashboard

What the dashboard shows

OBD CAN’s live dashboard presents supported standard OBD2 sensor values as gauges. The default shows engine speed, vehicle speed, coolant temperature, and intake air temperature. Add numeric Mode 01 signals from the catalog, arrange them, and use up to eight gauges per dashboard. The dashboard catalog covers standard numeric Mode 01 signals; it does not include custom OEM PIDs or manufacturer-specific parameters.

Configure it before a drive

1. Open OBD CAN and go to the live dashboard from the vehicle connection screen.
2. Enter edit mode to rename the current dashboard, add a gauge, or arrange the displayed gauges. Select only signals that help answer a question you have about the vehicle.
3. Save the layout. You can do this setup without a connected car; it creates a dashboard configuration, not an offline copy of vehicle data.
4. When you are ready to see values, connect a compatible BLE OBD2 adapter and let the app identify which selected standard signals the vehicle supports.

Example: focus on a rising temperature

Suppose a driver wants to watch coolant temperature during a long climb. Before setting off, they select coolant temperature, engine speed, and vehicle speed, then connect and check which signals the car supports. They observe whether temperature rises with sustained engine load, then stop safely and consult vehicle service guidance if it remains unusually high. This pattern cannot identify the cause or prove overheating by itself.

Read support status correctly

Before polling the gauges, OBD CAN checks support through the vehicle’s standard OBD2 support information. A supported gauge can show a live value when the connection and vehicle response allow it. An unsupported gauge can remain in the layout with an unsupported label. If support discovery fails or remains incomplete, the app reports that support is unverified and does not treat that as permission to poll the gauges. Reconnect and retry the check; a blank or unverified value is not a measurement of zero.

Readings vary by vehicle, control unit, adapter, and protocol. A gauge displays vehicle data; it is not a diagnosis. Confirm unusual values with service information and testing.

Account and membership limits

Prepare your layout before connecting, then sign in to use features that require an account. Creating or opening additional dashboard pages requires sign-in and paid membership. Terms appear in the app. A BLE OBD2 adapter is sold separately; iOS does not support classic Bluetooth or Wi-Fi adapters.

Frequently asked questions

Can I prepare a dashboard without the car?

Yes. You can configure a layout before connecting. Actual values and vehicle support are checked only after a compatible adapter connects to the car.

Can I add an OEM parameter here?

No. The dashboard catalog contains selectable standard numeric OBD2 Mode 01 signals. Use the OEM PID guide for manufacturer-specific parameters and their separate workflow.

Why is a gauge unverified?

Support discovery did not complete. Reconnect and retry before reading.