I'd like to know more details about what's going on in my RX, and I'm thinking to fit a scangauge display or some other software with similar purpose which can run on a notebook or a smartphone.

I made a quick search on the forum, but couldn't find any specific threads on this topic, in the 2nd gen RX section.
Is there any experience around on this stuff? OBD port connection (where is it?), data available, location on the dashboard... anything else worth knowing?
My RX is a 400h, but I guess there isn't much difference with non-hybrid models...
Thanks in advance!

 

OBD port is under the dash near the center. Software will depend on what you're trying to do, scan for MIL codes, reset, etc. Software is better for Android than for iPod via bluetooth. scantools.net might help for windows based notebooks. Will need a OBD to USB cable

 

On this topic, do you know if the Heads Up Displays that plug into the OBDII ports would work on our cars?

 

There are a number of ODB-II adapters supporting bluetooth out there on the market. One of those and some software for an Android device and you would be all set. You can mount that as desired and use it as intended and for map use as well should you want to go that route.

 

I use Torque Pro app (Engine management diagnostics and tools) on my Android phone (Samsung Galaxy S) along with an OBDII scanner through a bluetooth connection. I suppose you can upload this app on your tablet device as well. Torque app was $4.99 from the app store.

 

Thanks, I'll look under the dash the next time I'll use the car.
Re. what I'd want to do, at the moment I'm just interested in knowing a bit better what's going on in the car while driving it, under different conditions: engine oil pressure and temp, transmission oil temp, engine RPM (which is missing on the 400h), ecc. - whatever is available via OBD port, really.
Maybe the Torque Pro app is already good enough, I'll have a look. The scantools.net software seems very extensive, but also rather pricey...
Btw, I only mentioned software because I've already got an ODB bluetooth adapter from my previous car, and I hope it will work also on the RX.

 

A small update, 'cause I just looked at my 2008 400h and found the port, right under the dashboard.
But actually, it's on the left side of the steering wheel, just to the right of the park brake pedal.
Not a clever location I must add, because my bluetooth adapter almost touches the brake pedal, when plugged in the OBD port.
In fact, if left always plugged, it would be at risk to be broken at any time the brake pedal is pressed...

 

Torque works well from what I've read, makes me want to get an android device just to try it!
Using a netbook with a wired adapter now since anything for an Apple device isn't worth the cost.
Are you able to reset any codes or just see actual conditions?

 

Yes, Cartman, I can reset the check engine codes (haven't had to do it yet, knock on the wood) through OBD-II tool. The tool itself is $12 on ebay or amazon.
Nice toy, but I wouldnt leave it plugged in and drive with it much - too much distraction and as it was mentioned above, risk of breaking it off with your leg while applying brakes.

 

I will second the Torque Pro App, it works really well. You can set up multiple vehicles as well. For $5.00, you can't beat it. I have reset the check engine light on a few of my friends vehicles, although AutoZone and some other places like that will read you the code for free. It will not help with other codes such as ABS.