Add trip computer to 2004 Camry Altise - is it possible?

[hoges]

I have a 2004 Toyota Camry Altise (base model), and have seen some reports of US models having the wiring in place to simply insert the trip computer module. Does anybody know if this is possible with aus cars?

I figure that I could probably find one in a scrap yard somewhere, but it won't do me much good if the sensors it needs aren't already installed. I've heard of some model commodores having a similar thing with the radio, so I figure it's possible?

Has anyone had experience with this?

[lateralus]

if youre talking about the trip computer that has average fuel consumption, driving range, average speed, etc. thenas far as i know, if you have a 4 cyl then it wont work at all. if you have a v6, youll have to get the ECM as well.

[crinkles]

I have tried a scanguage II with my 05 altise 4 cylinder. The australian camry is NOT OBD -II compatible. it is mandated int he US that all cars should be, but not in australia. if it were, the scanguage would make an excellent trip computer.

My service guy at Toyota said, (can you believe it) Toyota Australia made the OBD-II connector propriety on Australian models in order to necessitate owners to go to toyota for servicing.

On an imported '00 echo, it works though (built in Japan)

[hoges]

Ah, bugger. Oh well, plan B then. I think there's a few gps units that can do a similar thing, so I'll look into those. Why you would go to the effort of making a proprietary plug though is beyond me. I also have the 4cyl, so it doesn't look like it's worth the effort. Thanks.

[mbruce]

The 4cyl Ateva had the trip computer, so it must be doable. Maybe you should go and talk to your Toyota pars department and see what extra parts are required. But knowing Toyota the price would make it unviable.

[sjez]

The 4cyl Ateva had the trip computer, so it must be doable. Maybe you should go and talk to your Toyota pars department and see what extra parts are required. But knowing Toyota the price would make it unviable.

I know that this is a reply to a post which is old, but I'm sue that there are a number of Toyota Owners out there who, like me are generally happy with the car but are somewhat annoyed at the skimpish attitude of Toyota to it's Australian customers.

So... if you're happy to put up with my rave... read on.

A trip computer is one of those items that Toyota feels is unnecessary for it's buyers.

It's truly amazing that in virtually every other make of car the trip computer is standard. Distance to empty, instant km/100 etc. (Temp indoor/ outdoor)

Ok... before I get a reply that the Coralla has one ( I know) why is it that it's not standard on all Toyotas?

I've owned 5 Toyotas and am considering purchasing a PRADO next. Guess what?.... no trip computer (unless you buy the top of the range!)

OK next option. Buy an item like "Scan Gauge" ... that would just fit into the OBD 2 connector and should work... right? Nope! they have their own propriety On Board Diagnostic port cleverly disguised as an OBD2 connector. Won't work on my Camry or my RAV4 (Works ok on US models though)

Won't work on a 2003-4 Landcruiser... but I've yet to check out any of the vehicles produced since 2006. Connect it to a Holden or a Nissan and it's good.

Today I went to an auto specialist and checked out a Japanese made OBD2 unit (http://greddy.com/home/?id=282) Now that looks cool... but are you prepared for a $780 price tag? Watch the video. I tried out a similar unit and it works but is virtually too small to view and is unreadable in bright daylight.

Some years ago I came across an automotive site which gave instructions of adding a trip computer to a different model vehicle. I've long lost that link but I do remember that the connection wasn't so involved. All it needed were 3 connections.

And... now to top it off, last night on the Ch 10 News there was a item which talked about ways in which car owners could be informed about their driving style. Info such as braking, fuel consumption, engine information all displayed on a unit that can be attached GPS style to your windscreen.

Now, what's the bet it plugs into the OBD2 connector (which is, as they say "Found on virtually every car.)? And of course... I suspect Toyota owners miss out again.

If you are aware of any after market products that work on Toyota's.. let us know.