According to the experts, 50 percent of all Americans now own a smartphone. And if you already own an iPhone, you’re in the majority. You’re also in luck—and you may never have to visit the dyno, dragstrip, or dealership ever again. iMiken has developed a revolutionary iPhone application that can best be described as a brain scan for your vehicle. Called DashBoss, it’s the first truly integrated vehicle performance app for use with iPhones, iPad, or iPod touch. By connecting a Bluetooth gateway module to the OBDII (diagnostic) port under the dash and downloading the app online, it can be installed in a matter of minutes.
Price $169.99
- DashBoss Bluetooth gateway module with OBDII cable and accessory pigtail connector
- Assorted zip ties and Velcro for optional mounting of the gateway
- QuickStart Guide
Features
The ability to run your own quarter-mile and eighth-mile acceleration tests piqued our interest most, although 0 to 60 mph, 0 to 100 mph, and braking tests are available as well (PERF TESTS). You can also read and clear diagnostic trouble codes (DIAGS), and because you have access to every parameter your ECM monitors, you can use the dash view function to watch engine rpm, mph, coolant temp, intake temp, ambient air temp, commanded EGR percentage, and a host of other vitals—all in real time. You can also set alarms to go off when things like coolant and transmission temps get too toasty. As a bonus, you can data-log any parameter or test you choose and email it to someone right there on the spot.
Is It Accurate?
To find out how accurate the DashBoss application was, we tried it out in our 6.7L Power Stroke project truck. Since the ’11 Super Duty had been to the local eighth-mile dragstrip on several occasions, running a best of 8.99 seconds at 74 mph, we knew what to look for. Beginning with several eighth-mile tests, the DashBoss measured a 9.51-second pass at 73 mph, which was slower than our 8.99 at the dragstrip. But we also had an extra 560 pounds on board in the form of a passenger, camera equipment, a full fuel tank, the spare tire, and the tailgate. When you also factor in a 0.15-second-slower 60-foot time thanks to a paved road (vs. the traction found at the track), the 9.51-second eighth-mile looks quite accurate.
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To start any acceleration test, you simply hit the start button (top of screen), and the D
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For utmost accuracy, the DashBoss uses GPS positioning to track speed, weather, time, and