SPARQ DIAGNOSTICS
Introduced at the 2024 LA Auto Show, this device uses AI to allow drivers to obtain an instant diagnosis of its car.
Good health is important. Not just to us, but to our vehicles, as well. What if we could actually talk to our cars to find out what's wrong when there's a problem? Thanks to a seriously cool new automotive gadget, we can do just that!
By Reed Berry
Fri, Feb 28, 2025 09:00 AM PST
Featured image: The Lamborghini Murciélago driven by Bruce Wayne (Christian Bale) in the 2012 film "The Dark Knight Rises" on display at the SPARQ Diagnostics luanch event in Downtown Los Angeles (all images by the author, Reed Berry).
SPARQ Diagnostics is a small device that utilizes AI (artificial intelligence) to create an experience that allows drivers to zero in on existing mechanical issues, and can even direct you to highly-reviewed repair facilities nearby.
Communication with your vehicle is accomplished via an easy-to-use app on your phone. A Time-lapse feature provides a chronological timeline of the vehicle past present and future, including past repairs, recalls and upcoming services that need to be performed. The Glovebox feature within the SPARQ app allows you to upload your automotive documents, such as your driver license, registration and insurance policy.
SPARQ Diagnostics made its world debut at the 2024 Los Angeles Auto Show, but LA Car has been invited to a special launch event in the arts district of Downtown Los Angeles. The event, held in a unique venue called Rolling Greens, provides a full evening that would appeal to any automotive enthusiast, with a display of exotics and hyper cars, as well as a collection of iconic vehicles from popular movies, such as a 1981 DeLorean from "Back to the Future" (signed by the cast) and a 1999 Nissan Skyline GTR R34 as seen in "2 Fast 2 Furious" signed by actor Cody Walker, who is in attendance here at the event. There's even a sleek 2008 Lamborghini Murciélago, as driven by Bruce Wayne (Christian Bale) in the 2012 film, "The Dark Knight Rises."
An informative round table discussion on car culture past, present and future features actress and race car driver Emilia Hartford, hip-hop icon and TV host ("Pimp My Ride") Xzibit, actor and automotive enthusiast Sung Kung, NASCAR World Champion Kurt Busch, and former NFL star and Super Bowl champion Cliff Avril. A live SPARQ demo follows. Entertainment includes performances by popular young rapper 310babii and Grammy nominee Wiz Khalifa. Appropriately, Khalifa is performing his popular - and touching - song, "See You Again," which was written for the film "Furious 7" as a tribute to the late "Fast & Furious" actor Paul Walker.
The cool thing about the SPARQ app is that you can type in questions, speak to it or, in certain situations, simply upload a photo. The AI technology assesses the situation and almost instantly provides the diagnosis or information you need. There's no need to search for a repair shop whenever an issue arises. SPARQ serves as your personal AI mechanic.Unfortunately, I haven't been able to test SPARQ on my own car. Currently, the device is only compatible with iOS. Those of us with Android phones will be waiting for that version which, according to SPARQ reps, is currently in development.
The retail price of SPARQ is $499 without annual fees or subscription costs. For a limited time, the SPARQ device is being provided to driver free of charge. Check the SPARQ website for details: joinsparq.com.
About The Author
Known professionally as "The Traffic Guy," Reed Berry has been a driver safety educator for over 30 years. Reed has conducted traffic school classes and suspended license workshops throughout California, and has served as keynote speaker at safety conferences and corporate events across America. He has appeared on radio and television programs both in the U.S. and internationally to discuss safety-related issues. A contributor to LA Car since 2003, Reed Berry is a member of Motor Press Guild, the Los Angeles Press Club and SAG-AFTRA.
