Best Wideband Gauge for Your Tuned Vehicle [2022 Review]

Tuning your car can be all fun and games until you end up with a blown engine or other powertrain issues, along with a long list of parts you need to replace just because you did not know the limits of your mods. However, keep in mind that there is no such thing as a problem-free tuned car. So, the next best thing you can do is monitor certain vital engine parameters to minimize the risk of potential damage. You may already have oil and boost pressure monitoring gauges, but by far, the most important tool for your tuner is a wideband air/fuel gauge.

Wideband gauges are instruments that measure the air/fuel ratio entering your engine’s combustion chamber. Especially in turbocharged cars, the air/fuel ratio is an essential parameter that must be kept within tight safe working limits. Significant variation out of the acceptable threshold can be potentially harmful to your engine—not to mention that it will also significantly reduce the performance of all those expensive mods.

Since it has several critical responsibilities, choosing the best wideband gauge for your car is important. Now, that can be pretty tedious, considering the plethora of choices available out there. So, to make your life easier, we have taken the liberty to pick 7 of the best wideband gauges we could find. These are all high-quality models handpicked by expert mechanics with years of experience in the field (mostly yours truly here).

Of course, it’s really hard to pick only one “best” air/fuel gauge for every car. Every tuned vehicles are different, operate on different setup and belong to people with different budgets. So, I tried to include a little something for everyone, from budget-friendly ones suitable for your Golf with a bigger snail to high-end racetrack-only professional models that you can fit on you 800hp Supra.

I hope it helps!

7 Best Wideband Gauge Reviews

1. Innovate Motorsports 3918 MTX Series MTX-L Plus Wideband Gauge

The 3918 MTX-L Plus is the latest and most advanced wideband gauge from release by Innovate Motorsports. It is a 2 1/16” diameter digital wideband gauge with a large center readout display that works in conjunction with the brand’s programmable digital needle technology. The setup uses a highly reliable and accurate Bosch LSU 4.9 wideband O2 sensor to provide precise readings based on frequent inputs.

The 3918 MTX-L Plus initially comes with a black bezel and black faceplate. However, if that does not go with the overall theme of your car’s cabin, you can simply mix and match colors with the included interchangeable parts. For example, Innovate Motorsports will send a silver bezel and a white faceplate with the purchase but there are also more options to choose from if you look around a little. Other included accessories consist of an exhaust bung, a programming cable, a 10′ sensor cable, and a detailed instruction manual.

The Innovate Motorsports 3918 MTX-L Plus Wideband Gauge is a budget-friendly option for those looking to enter the world of car tuning. It also has a fast output speed that reflects changes in the air/fuel ratio instantly. It’s definitely not the most advanced AF gauge out there but if you are looking to enter the field without breaking the bank or buying one of those cheap eBay things, this one is a pretty good option.

Highlighted features

• Digital wideband gauge
• 2 1/16” or 52.4 mm size
• Gauge weight: 1 lb
• Uses Bosch LSU 4.9 wideband O2 sensor
• Comes with a 10′ sensor cable, interchangeable bezels & faceplates, exhaust bung, program cable, and instruction manual
• Budget option

Pros

• Digital readout and needle for seamless and quick viewing
• Interchangeable aesthetic parts
• Accurate and reliable readings
• High-quality O2 sensor compatible with different fuels
• Data logging functionality
• Fast and frequent inputs for readings in real-time
• Comes with a detailed instruction manual
• Long O2 sensor cable
• Reasonably priced

Cons

• Installation and calibration process can be a bit tedious for first-timers

2. AEM 30-4110 UEGO Air/Fuel Ratio Gauge

The second wideband gauge on our list is the AEM 304110 Uego model. It is also a digital gauge equipped with a central digital readout and a sweeping digital needle configuration. The 304110 can measure the air/fuel ratio of different fuel types thanks to a wide measuring range of 10 to 20 AFR. Also, you are sure to get accurate readings since, just like the previous model, AEM’s wideband gauge also uses the Bosch LSU 4.9 O2 sensor.

The best part about the AEM 304110 Uego wideband gauge is the fact that it does not need to be calibrated, like ever; this can save a lot of time and effort when hooking it up to your car. In addition, the AEM 304410 has a 0-5V analog output which makes it compatible with nearly every engine management system and data logger.

The AEM 2 1/16” wideband gauge does not fail to impress in the aesthetics department either; it comes with interchangeable black & white faceplates and black & silver bezels. Thus, you can customize your gauge as you wish.

The 304110 wideband gauge is a marginally better version of the previous model with a slight price increase. However, the pre-calibrated O2 sensor alone makes it worth paying extra and going for the upgrade.

Highlighted features

• Digital wideband gauge
• 2 1/16” or 52.4 mm size
• Gauge weight: 0.88 lbs
• Uses Bosch LSU 4.9 wideband O2 sensor
• Comes with the sensor cable, interchangeable bezels & faceplates, weld-in exhaust bung, other electrical cables, and an instruction manual
• Budget option

Pros

• No free-air calibration required
• Wide AFR measurement range
• Accurate and prompt readings
• Latest Bosch O2 sensor
• Suitable for several fuel types
• Interchangeable aesthetic components allow for flexibility
• Color-changing digital needle
• 1 year limited manufacturer warranty

Cons

• You just can’t go wrong with AEM

3. GlowShift Elite GSET02W Wideband Air/Fuel Ratio AFR Gauge Kit

In the sea of digital wideband gauges, analog ones like the GlowShift GSET02W stand out like a sore thumb—but make no mistake, it is just as good as its digital counterparts. What makes this wideband so good is the addition of several features enhancing usability. For example, the GSET02W lets you set low and high threshold warnings; if any is passed, the driver will be alerted by an audible tone accompanied by a red light.

This 2 1/16” wideband gauge has a black bezel and a black faceplate along with a dark tinted lens that looks incredibly stealthy when turned off. If stealth is not your cup of tea, you’ll be happy to hear that, when turned on, you can choose from 10 different colors for the display for easy readability. And if you are willing to make a few extra connections, the GlowShift gauge will also dim itself by 30% at night to prevent eye strain.

The faceplate features two buttons, one to change the display color and the other labeled as “set” will recall the last maximum AFR value. You can then use the reading to carry out diagnostics and repairs or cross-compare different air/fuel settings and time slips during your next day at the track.

Unsurprisingly, GlowShift Elite also uses the familiar Bosch 4.9 LSU O2 sensor to provide accurate readings. Of course, Bosch is the largest O2 sensor manufacturer by a mile so it’s not that surprising that most aftermarket AF gauge companies go with the 4.9 LSU—when it’s good, it’s good, right? The kit also comes with a control box with extra ports making it perfect for working with data loggers and engine management systems.

GlowShift’s Elite wideband gauge is one of the most feature-loaded and practical models on our list. The long list of features and the high-quality Bosch sensor make up for an unbeatable package perfect for many tuners somewhat starting in the field. Furthermore, the ability to customize the gauge by changing the dial face color is icing on the cake.

Highlighted features

• Analog wideband gauge
• 2 1/16” or 52.4 mm size
• Gauge weight: 2 lbs
• Uses Bosch LSU 4.9 wideband O2 sensor
• Comes with a 13′ sensor harness, 6′ control unit wiring harness, 5′ power connection, weld-in exhaust bung, installation fittings, and instruction manual
• Feature-loaded option
• 10 colors changeable dial face

Pros

• High and low pre-set AFR warnings by visual and audible cues
• Separate control box makes operations easy
• Nighttime dimming functionality
• Peak recall function
• Flexibility in selecting dial face color
• Accurate and reliable readings
• Stealthy look when off
• 1 year manufacturer limited warranty with free lifetime technical support

Cons

• Slightly expensive for an analog model

4. AEM 30-0300 X-Series Wideband UEGO AFR Sensor Controller Gauge

If an analog wideband gauge does not tickle your fancy, then there is a good chance that the AEM 300300 X-series will. AEM Performance Electronics claims this to be the fastest responding wideband gauge when independently tested against 17 others. Such an accomplishment using the same Bosch 4.9 LSU O2 sensor also used by competitors is no easy task. Significantly responsible for achieving this herculean feat is the brand’s patented X-digital wideband technology.

Coming to the housing, the AEM 300300 wideband gauge also features an all-black stealthy appearance, but without interchangeable parts included in the kit. The black dial face has a 7-segment central digital readout surrounded by the familiar “digital needle” found in many other models. Moreover, the main gauge unit measures 2 1/16” in diameter, meaning it can fit easily into a dashboard vent or even A-pillar pods.

Another significant advantage of AEM’s wideband gauge is compatibility; you can hook up this device with vehicles having up to 16V power and several fuel types such as gasoline, methanol, ethanol, diesel, propane, and CNG. All you have to do is use the ‘mode’ button on the dial face to select the appropriate fuel type.

AEM’s X-series is a little more expensive than others but quality comes at a price. Still, it’s pretty impressive at what it does and well, AEM doesn’t really need any more introduction. It simply doesn’t make bade stuff…

Highlighted features

• Digital wideband gauge
• 2 1/16” or 52.4 mm size
• Gauge weight: 1.43 lbs
• Uses Bosch LSU 4.9 wideband O2 sensor
• Comes with wiring harness, exhaust bung, and instruction manual
• Patented X-digital technology
• Editor’s pick

Pros

• Auto-dimming functionality
• Compact gauge dimensions
• Fastest response time
• Low dead time
• Accurate and reliable measurements
• Locking wiring connections for secure and safe operation
• Cost-effective and efficient wideband gauge
• 1 year manufacturer limited warranty

Cons

• Interchangeable bezel and faceplate have to be bought separately
• Calibration required

5. PLX Devices Gen4 SM-AFR Wideband DM-6 Gauge

The PLX Devices DM6 is a wideband gauge with a unique and innovative approach to displaying the recorded measurements. Where most digital gauges usually have a central 7-segment readout display, the DM6 gauge features a high contrast touchscreen OLED digital display. Depending on the inputs received, the gauge will automatically detect the parameter being measured and adjust the range accordingly to display accurate readings. And worth mentioning, you can use the DM6 gauge to measure any number of parameters such as RMP, air/fuel ratio, sensor health, battery voltage, etc—that’s a couple of gauges you won’t have to buy at all right there!

The DM6 also uses Bosch’s LSU 4.9 wideband O2 sensor to obtain accurate and reliable readings in the wideband gauge setup. In addition, PLX Devices has equipped this gauge with something it likes to call “IntelliHealth” functionality that effectively monitors the sensor’s reaction time and remaining life.

The DM6 wideband gauge can do everything any other digital or analog model can, but even better. It is compatible with several fuel types such as ethanol, gasoline, methanol, E85, LPG, and CNG. Moreover, you can also connect it to aftermarket engine management systems and data loggers for detailed diagnostics.

The PLX Devices DM6 wideband gauge is the most technologically advanced gauge on this list. It can measure parameters no other model can, like sensor health, reaction timing, etc. Oh! And did we mention it has a touchscreen display? Hence, if you are willing to spend the money, there aren’t many wideband gauges that can do what the DM6 does.

Highlighted features

• Touchscreen wideband gauge with OLED display
• 2 1/16” or 52.4 mm size
• Gauge weight: 1 lb
• Uses Bosch LSU 4.9 wideband O2 sensor
• Comes with the main controller unit, 10′ O2 sensor harness, sensor module connection kit, termination jumper, and instruction manual
• Technologically-advanced model

Pros

• Can daisy-chain up to 16 parameters in one gauge
• Touchscreen controls are intuitive
• Ergonomic design
• Can measure O2 sensor health and reaction timing
• 3 capacitive touch buttons for seamless operation
• Accurate and reliable AFR readings
• Fully designed and made in the USA

Cons

• On the expensive side
• Complex construction and operation means more things could potentially go wrong

6. Innovate Motorsports 3873 DB Series Complete Wideband Gauge Kit

Another solid offering from Innovate Motorsports is the 3873 DB series wideband gauge kit. Much like all other wideband gauge kits, you also get an LC2 wideband controller, a Bosch LSU 4.9 O2 sensor, and a weld-in bung. However, when using other gauges, you will have to purchase data logging software separately to store and analyze AFR readings over a specific period successfully. But that won’t be necessary since the 3873 AF gauge includes an award-winning LogWorks engine tuning software for fast and easy data logging.

The Innovate Motorsports 3873 is a fully digital wideband gauge with a large center 7-segment readout. Even though this particular model is fitted with green LEDs, you can also opt for one with blue or red lights if that’s more your thing. Innovate Motorsport’s wideband gauge features a simple yet effective dial face design with no distractions or unnecessary elements to clutter the gauge. All you have is the brand logo, AFT label, and digital readout. In addition, the bezel and dial face are blacked out to make for a super cool look.

If you are looking for something much better and offering more features than most, look no further; the Innovate Motorsports is the 3873 DB series wideband gauge is what you need! The included data logging and engine tuning software is also a huge plus point, along with high tuning customization possibilities.

Highlighted features

• Digital wideband gauge
• 2 1/16” or 52.4 mm size
• Gauge weight: 2.05 lbs
• Uses Bosch LSU 4.9 wideband O2 sensor
• Comes with 8′ sensor cable, LC2 wideband controller, exhaust bung, serial cable, and instruction manual
• Highly technical model

Pros

• Attractive all-black color scheme
• Also available with red or blue lighting
• Comes with award-winning engine tuning software LogWorks
• Easy to install with all mounting components included
• Bright and straightforward LED display
• Can log up to 5 parameters to your laptop or PC
• Easy to recalibrate

Cons

• You will need to be a pro tuner to really unlock this gauge’s full potential
• Not compatible with all cars
• Frequent calibration necessary

7. AutoMeter 4378 Ultra-Lite Digital Wideband Air and Fuel Ratio Kit

When it comes to high-performance electronic equipment, AutoMeter is a name that always takes center stage. The brand has built a solid reputation of consistently developing premium gauging equipment throughout its 60-year history, and the 4378 wideband gauge stands true to this reputation. Part of the brand’s Ultra-Lite series, the 4378 is a digital gauge with a 7-segment main readout that works in conjunction with the familiar LED lights.

A unique feature about this premium wideband gauge is the level of customization it offers. For example, you can configure the display to monitor the exact AFR range you are interested in. You can also pre-set certain high and low warning thresholds, so when the AFR crosses them, the driver is alerted immediately. Another helpful feature is the peak recall function that shows the highest recorded AFR value since the last reset.

The only downside is that the AutoMeter 4378 Ultra-Lite wideband gauge uses Bosch’s older 4.2 LSU Oxygen wideband sensor when most competitors employ the latest 4.9 sensor. However, if you are willing to let that slide and don’t mind the extra cost, it’s definitely worth considering. The level of customization it offers goes a long way in making up for the outdated sensor setup.

Highlighted features

• Digital wideband gauge
• 2 1/16” or 52.4 mm size
• Gauge weight: 1 lb
• Uses custom-tuned Bosch LSU 4.2 wideband O2 sensor
• Comes with mounting hardware, stainless steel weld-in bung, 8’ wiring harness, and detailed instruction manual
• Premium option

Pros

• Easy to read digital readout
• Ability to pre-program low, high, and normal AFR values
• Auto-dimming functionality
• Premium feel and finish
• Attractive silver and white color scheme
• Compatible with ECUs, EMS, and data loggers
• Compatible with 12V and 16V electrical systems

Cons

• Does not come with the latest Bosch O2 sensor
• On the expensive side

Difference Between a Wideband and Narrowband Air/Fuel Ratio Gauge

Many of you may have heard of narrowband air-fuel ratio gauges and how cheap they are compared to wideband models. Narrowband air-fuel ratio gauges use your car’s stock O2 sensor for data acquisition. Hence, they are only capable of telling you whether your car’s air/fuel ratio is rich, lean, or stoich without any specific readings that wideband gauges provide. Therefore, you really cannot find out much information based on inputs from narrowband gauges. On the other hand, wideband gauges are much more helpful as they use specific O2 sensors that provide much more accurate and specific AFR readings.

A narrowband air-fuel ratio gauge typically has a voltage range of 0-1V, limiting its working capacity in extreme conditions such as wide-open throttle. Thankfully, wideband gauges usually have a much larger voltage range (0-5V), allowing them to measure and display specific AFR values painting a better picture of your engine’s overall health and functioning.

As the name suggests, wideband air-fuel ratio gauges are meant to accurately measure AFR values over a wide range of working conditions. At the same time, a narrowband model is simply no match to the former’s capabilities, which is why we would recommend you never buy a narrowband model even if the low price seems tempting. If you are serious about tuning and engine mods, spend a few extra bucks instead and go for a high-quality wideband air-fuel ratio gauge that shows your engine’s accurate AFR values in real-time. Narrowband gauges are nothing more than fancy ornaments, while wideband models will actually help you save thousands of dollars in potential future engine damage.

If you drive your car hard, you need a wideband air/fuel gauges—simple as that!

What to Consider When Selecting an AFR Gauge for Your Car

When it comes to tuning cars, poor reliability is almost always an unwelcome guest. To ensure no major damage is incurred to your engine, we rely on gauges that measure important parameters such as the air/fuel ratio to reflect the engine’s performance. An AFR gauge has an important job which makes it even more important to pick the right model for your car. Here are a few things you should consider while selecting the best wideband gauge possible:

Compatibility

A brand-new wideband AFR gauge is of no use to you if it is not compatible with your tuned car. So always make sure that the product you are interested in will work with your vehicle beforehand. You can easily check this by comparing your car’s and the product’s rated fuel type, system voltage, etc. Most manufacturers will also provide a detailed compatibility list so keep an eye out for that.

Included O2 sensor quality and accuracy

Most wideband gauges these days come with a wideband O2 sensor included in the kit, so you don’t have to purchase one separately. Almost all models in our list use Bosch’s 4.9 LSU O2 wideband sensor. It is the latest and probably the best wideband O2 sensor out there and it’s not only affordable but also incredibly accurate and reliable.

AFR range

The usual AFR value for gasoline engines is 14.7:1, meaning for every one part of fuel, there are 14.7 parts of air. However, optimum AFR values can vary depending on factors such as the type of fuel used. So pick a wideband gauge that can accommodate the working range of your engine’s AFR values.

Additional features

Some wideband gauges will offer certain additional features to make the gauge more usable and desirable for tuners. These include the ability to set low & high threshold warnings, auto-dimming functionality, touchscreen displays, audible & and visual alerts, interchangeable bezel & dial face, multiple LED colors, etc. Though these are quite desirable, you must prioritize more important factors such as accuracy and reliability when choosing a wideband gauge.

The Verdict

Much like car tuning, choosing a wideband gauge for your car also depends on personal taste, preferences, and more importantly, the ultimate objective. Put simply, how fast do you want to go? Luckily, as long as you analyze your needs by considering all factors, and plan accordingly, you should be just fine.

I personally prefer the AEM 30-0300 X-Series for all my tuned cars (actually bought 3 AEM air/fuel gauges over the years). It has a clear and readable display along with a high degree of compatibility. And best of all, this wideband gauge comes with detailed yet easy-to-follow instructions and everything else you would need to get the setup up & running in just a few hours.

Of course, if you plan to go for a truly hardcore setup, you might want to go with the PLX DM-6 model. On the other hand, if you are looking for an entry-level model just to keep an eye on your engine’s AF ratio without costing an arm and a leg, get the Innovate Motorsports 3918 MTX Series—trust me; you won’t regret it!

Happy tuning!