DIY Code Kit 1
Plan your build.
The source code and instructions to build your own gauge. A starting point for builders who want to customise their software and source their own enclosure.
Digital files only. Electronics, displays and printed parts are purchased or made separately.
What this kit includes
- Editable Ghost Gauge source code for your own DIY build.
- Wiring diagram to follow during assembly.
- Assembly and setup instructions.
Kit 1 does not include STL files, installation support or future software updates. Coding knowledge is recommended if you want to modify the software.
Supported displays & features
Choose your display
- 1.28-inch round TFT display.
- 1.9-inch rectangular TFT display. Round-screen features are also available on this format.
2.1-inch display support and the expanded three-round-plus-one-rectangular setup are Kit 3 features.
Core gauge functions
- Engine data
- RPM, speed, intake-air and coolant temperature, boost, engine load, throttle position and mass airflow.
- Electrical & fuel
- Battery voltage and voltage range, alternator charge, lambda voltage, battery-health screens, fuel consumption and fuel-rail pressure.
- Trip & last drive
- Drive time, distance, average and top speed, maximum temperatures and RPM, peak boost, voltage range, new engine codes and drive rating.
- Race & diagnostics
- Standing and rolling race countdowns and timers, recorded best times, plus reading and clearing engine fault codes.
- Themes & settings
- Ghost UI, BMW, Audi, Saab, Mercedes and VW styles. Adjust brightness, RPM ranges, warnings, startup pages, units and supported display settings.
Readings depend on your vehicle. The project was developed primarily around the BMW E46. Available data varies with the ECU, OBD-II implementation and sensors; some readings may be unavailable or inaccurate. Boost requires suitable pressure data, and some older Volkswagen Group vehicles using KWP1281 may not provide it. Gear and fuel-rail screens also need the relevant supported data.
Check a specific reading for my vehicle See the full feature referenceHardware you buy separately
This purchase contains no physical hardware. Choose the supported board and display for your build before ordering components.
For a round gauge
- ESP32 WROOM USB-C development board. The published parts list excludes SuperMini, C3 and C4 alternatives.
- Supported 1.28-inch, 7-pin round TFT. Use the exact display specified in the parts list.
For a rectangular gauge
- ESP32 WROOM development module with the supported 1.9-inch screen attached.
For either build
- Compatible ELM327 Bluetooth OBD2 adapter — one per vehicle.
- Push-button rotary encoder with four or five pins — one per vehicle.
- Wiring and suitable connectors for your installation.
- Automotive-grade 12/24V-to-5V buck converter when powering the board from the vehicle supply, plus appropriate fused wiring.
- An enclosure or mount you source or make yourself. Printable files are included with Kits 2 and 3.
Do not connect an ESP32 directly to 12V. Follow the supplied wiring diagram and use the regulated power setup specified in the parts list.
Full parts list & build optionsWhat choosing Kit 2 adds
Choose Kit 2 if you want printable case files. It adds the supported round, encoder-slot, E46 ashtray, ESP32 and Ghost Button STL files to the core software and instructions.
For 2.1-inch display support, the expanded multi-screen setup and future DIY software updates, choose Kit 3.
View DIY Code Kit 2Original product information & licence
Personal-Use Licence
Your purchase grants you a personal, non-transferable licence to use and modify the supplied files for your own private use.
You may not share, upload, redistribute, copy, resell, sublicense or commercially distribute the code, wiring diagram, instructions or any modified version of these materials.
All supplied content remains the intellectual property of Ghost Garage.