Wanted to install the gauges to keep an eye on the temperature now that summer is coming but I don't track so I'm wondering if it's overkill. From what I've read the dash gauge is a dummy and by the time it starts to reflect high temperature it's too late. Will using an ODB2 sensor and keeping an eye on the coolant temperature through my phone while I'm driving be sufficient in terms of preventing catastrophic damage? Thank you.

 

Phone and OBD is fine. The sensor reads correctly, it's just the gauge needle that's not super well calibrated.

 

Loki hope to buy you a beer someday. Thanks man.

 

This is exactly how I monitor my temps as well.

 

Phone and OBD are fine just like Loki said. Though gauges just look cool.

 

phone and OBD work just fine but I"m partial to gauges as they're less distracting than reaching for your phone all the time, you don't have to launch any apps, etc.
Lots of gauge pods out there if you choose to go that route.

 

I agree that a OBDII reader and ph app is .....adequate, if you're vigilant monitoring it.

However, for the investment we make in our cars ..., and the inherit risk associated w/ overheating...; I agree w/ Jedi...*actively* monitoring heat is worth extra effort. IMV for ~$75 and a little time it's worth installing a coolant gauge w/ threshold alarming capability that will actively sound an audible alarm if/when temp rises above my set temp. I've a turbo system and have this set up for all but one of my temp & pressure gauges. It's a much more enjoyable driving experience IMV being able to simply enjoy the drive, knowing my gauges...though of course I still check them for time to time... will "alert me" if my system departs my pre-defined "safe" parameters.