I’d bet at some point we have all had one of those mysterious lights glow on the dash of our cars. The lights are very vague and what most want to know when they see them is how serious the problem might be. A device has hit Kickstarter called FIXD that aims to make it easy to understand what is wrong with your car.
Fixd is a hardware device that slips into the OBDII port of all vehicles made since 1996. The hardware device links with iOS or Android smartphones via Bluetooth to share diagnostic data with the app. The idea is that the app will decipher the diagnostic codes and tell you in plain language what is wrong with the car.
How FIXD Works
The FIXD device is designed to be user-friendly and accessible to everyone, regardless of their technical expertise. Once plugged into the OBDII port, which is typically located under the dashboard, the device begins to communicate with the car’s onboard computer. This port has been a standard feature in all vehicles manufactured since 1996, making FIXD compatible with a wide range of cars.
The app that accompanies the FIXD device is available for both iOS and Android platforms. After downloading the app, users can pair their smartphones with the FIXD device via Bluetooth. The app then starts to receive diagnostic data from the car in real-time. This data includes error codes that are usually difficult to interpret without specialized knowledge. FIXD translates these codes into simple, understandable terms, allowing car owners to know exactly what is wrong with their vehicle.
Additional Features and Benefits
One of the standout features of the FIXD app is its ability to provide cost estimates for repairs. This feature is particularly useful for those who are not familiar with car maintenance costs. By offering a ballpark figure, the app helps users avoid being overcharged by mechanics. The issues detected by FIXD are color-coded based on their severity, making it easy to prioritize repairs. For example, a red alert indicates a serious issue that needs immediate attention, while a yellow alert suggests a problem that should be addressed soon but is not urgent.
Another valuable feature of the FIXD app is its service timeline tracker. This function keeps a record of all the maintenance and repairs performed on the vehicle. It can remind users when it’s time for routine services like oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections. This proactive approach to car maintenance can extend the lifespan of the vehicle and prevent costly repairs down the line.
FIXD is seeking $30,000 in funding on Kickstarter and has already raised over $14,000. To get a FIXD device, backers need to pledge $50. Shipping is estimated to start in November 2014 for Android users and in April 2015 for iOS users. The device and app combination offers a comprehensive solution for car owners who want to take control of their vehicle’s health without needing to be automotive experts.
In summary, FIXD is a revolutionary tool that demystifies car diagnostics for the average driver. By translating complex error codes into plain language and providing cost estimates for repairs, it empowers car owners to make informed decisions about their vehicle’s maintenance. The additional features like severity color-coding and service timeline tracking further enhance its utility, making it a must-have for anyone looking to keep their car in optimal condition. With its successful Kickstarter campaign, FIXD is well on its way to becoming an essential gadget for car owners everywhere.
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