The package came with everything we needed to use the CarChip.  The CD contains the initialization and data plotting software for the CarChip, as well as the documentation.

The CarChip can be used right out of the box. The initialization allowed us to select more parameters to track and to personalize the CarChip.  The standard CarChip can record up to 75 hours of vehicle data.  The CarChip E/X that we got will record up to 300 hours of vehicle data.

The CarChip is designed to fit into a port called the OBDII (On Board Diagnotic, second generation).  Most cars built after 1996 has one near the dash somewhere.

Data is recorded every 5-60 seconds (user adjustible via the computer).  Users can choose 4 out of 23 possible parameters to track (RPM, speed, coolant temperature, etc...)

The CarChip can also record any "Check Engine" or other fault codes, but the CarChip must be in place prior to the event.  The CarChip can also clear the code and reset the light.

The recorded data is transferred to a PC via the supplied USB cable.  The software will work only on a Windows PC.

The CarChip is a great device to have in the car...so much so that we think it should be standard equipment in ALL cars!  Go write your Congressman and Senators now :-)

In the meantime, we are going to let the folks at the RainyDayGarage plug this into the Boxster and take it out for a spin.  Go check out the results of the FirstUse here.

Our cars are getting ever more sophisticated, especially in their ability to detect, record, and signal when something may be amiss.

However, most car manufacturers won't give the consumers the means to access the information on the status of their vehicles other than the "idiot lights" on the dash.  When a "check engine" light comes on, it usually means a trip to the dealer and a $50-$80 fee to plug in a cable and have them tell you what the problem iss.  This is not only annoying, it's a rip-off. 

Apparently, the good folks at DriveRight thought the same thing.  DriveRight is the maker of a product called the CarChip.  This device is like a "flight recorder" for your car.

It will record up to 300 hours of driving information (car speed, engine performance, trouble codes, etc...) so you can finally get a better idea of WHAT is going on under the hood! 

Review:

1. FirstLook

2. FirstUse

3. InTheWild

Review Summary:

Initial Impression- Plug&Play

Usability- Windows ONLY

Durability- Test in progress

Price- $140-$200

Other Boxster Projects:

- Mac mini Carputer installation

- PVC Rear Speakers installation

- Aluminum Pedals installation

- Radar Detector installation

- iPod installation