A cloud-based vehicle diagnostic service is perhaps the most impressive offer for vehicle enthusiasts. Understanding this need, Verizon and Delphi have jointly launched a tool that goes beyond locking and unlocking doors to remote-start your engine, monitor fuel levels, track your car’s location, etc. right from your smartphone.

You can plug the device into the On Board Diagnostics II port (OBD II) on your car, truck, SUV or minivan and download apps to your smartphone to control your vehicle. The device connects your car and smartphone, tablet or Internet browser through a cloud system and is compatible with most U.S. vehicles beginning with Model Year 1996.

The device features Bluetooth 2.1 and a Qualcomm chipset. It connects to Verizon’s CDMA 1X network. The compatible smartphone app comes on Android 2.2 and iOS 5.0 and higher devices. A two-way link with your vehicle lets you make sure that your car is locked when you press the lock button on the phone.

To your amazement, the tool even lets you handle some repairs without a mechanic’s assistance! When you receive a Check Engine Light, verify the error code on the computer or phone, and if you can decipher the code, the problem is solved without hiring expensive repair services.

The system records your driving history and updates your vehicle health status. You can set alerts to notify performance issues and speed limits, and also monitor your vehicle location on a map. On a bitterly cold day, you can start your car even if you are far away from the parking to ensure that the vehicle warms up by the time you reach there.