In this blog post, we go over what a Wideband sensor is and why we recommend it for your Subaru.
What is a Wideband Sensor and Why Do I Need It?
A wideband sensor measures the air/fuel ratio in exhaust gases to determine how the engine is running. When modifying the engine (IE new exhaust or big turbo), the tuner needs to know the true air/fuel mixture to recalibrate the ECU properly for the new setup. Although the factory front O2 sensor does this and is a considered a "wideband" O2 sensor, it's not as precise as a true wideband O2 sensor.
What makes the iWire Wideband Kit Different?
There are two reasons our wideband kits differ from what you would get with other wideband products, or even the AEM wideband kits directly from the manufacturer.
1. Plug-and-Play! No soldering, crimping, or wiring diagrams here. An easier install means more time behind the wheel.
2. The iWire wideband is prewired for data logging. If you have an ECU configured for datalogging input, no extra setup or wiring is needed. The wideband without gauge sends information directly to the ECU, and the wideband with gauge has a toggle switch that can switch between logging and not logging.
NOTE: For Cobb AP tunes post green speed, data logging would not be an option. An alternative tuning method is required.
Which Wideband Should I Get?
iWire currently offers two versions of the AEM Wideband.
Since this setup doesn't have any wires running from the engine bay to the cabin, it's a very quick and easy install. The only issue is that if you want a live readout, there aren't many easy ways to do so.
Adding a Gauge to a Non-Gauge Kit
The most important thing to note is that it is not possible to add the gauge to a non-gauged setup. This is because the control module is built into the wideband gauge, so it's not just a matter of attaching a gauge to the wideband without a gauge kit.
What if I Already Have a Wideband? Can iWire Make It Plug-and-Play?
Unfortunately, this is not possible because we need the wideband kits, brand new from AEM, to modify the harnesses that come with them.
We have the rear 02 sensor connectors available on our website if you want to try to modify your existing kit.
- https://iwireusa.com/products/rear-oxygen-sensor-plug-a?_pos=1&_sid=4f68aebf5&_ss=r
- https://iwireusa.com/products/rear-oxygen-sensor-receptacle-a
Check Out Our Install Videos
iWire Wideband without Gauge Install Video
