A dial gauge is a traditional analog instrument used in vehicle dashboards or diagnostic equipment. It features a physical needle that sweeps across a calibrated circular or semicircular face to indicate values like speed, engine RPM, temperature, or oil pressure. Digital instrument clusters often simulate the look of an analog dial gauge to maintain a familiar layout for the driver.
The customer prefers the classic look of a physical dial gauge over the new digital cluster.
Also heard as
- analog gauge
- sweep gauge
Related terms
Instrumentation
The collection of gauges, dials, and warning lights that display a vehicle's operating status to the driver.
Idiot light
A basic dashboard warning indicator replaces proper analog gauges to alert drivers of critical faults.
Trip computer
An electronic dashboard module that calculates and displays journey statistics.