A car that is connected to the internet is called a ‘connected car’. Nowadays, most new cars are already connected. But you can also connect your old car to the internet.
A connected car collects all sorts of data. For example, about your fuel consumption, your driving behaviour and the routes you take. This data allows you to drive more safely and economically. It is also a convenient way to register your journeys for tax purposes. Garages, in turn, can detect a fault before you break down at the roadside.
So, a connected car is very handy. But can you also make a car that isn't factory-connected to the internet, connected? Yes. Even if your car isn't standardly equipped with the necessary hardware and software, you can make your car connected. This can be done in several ways.
Dongle
The simplest way to make your car connected is with a dongle. This stick connects to the OBD port in your car, giving you access to the software in your car. Garages use this port to read errors, for example. Cars produced after 2005 have an OBD port. Cars a few years older sometimes do too.
You can opt for a Bluetooth dongle or a SIM card dongle, both of which send data to an app on your smartphone. However, Bluetooth requires you to be close to your car. This means you cannot determine your car's location remotely, which is useful if you can't remember exactly where you parked.
Black box
Another way to make your car connected is by installing a black box: a small unit that is fitted under your bonnet. You will need to have this done by a garage.
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