Frequently Asked Questions: PedalMonster

What does the PedalMonster do?

PedalMonster is the first OBD-II connected throttle sensitivity controller for gas and diesel vehicles. In basic terms, it changes the pedal position in relation to the throttle to eliminate that mushy feel. In many of today's cars and trucks, auto manufacturers have implemented what's known as "throttle enrichment delay." This is a fancy term for sponge pedal. Why would manufacturers want your car or truck to have a pedal that feels like your stepping on a wet sponge? If manufacturers gave you the immediate response you wanted, you'd likely use more fuel launching at green lights and squirting around town. In theory, by making the pedal input slower to react, it saves fuel. But the byproduct is a boring driving experience.

Why is PedalMonster's OBD connectivity significant? 

All modern cars and trucks have onboard diagnostics (OBD) ports located under the dashboard, typically above the driver's left leg. This port not only provides a safe source of +12v power for the PedalMonster, but it also offers a real-time connection to the vehicle's engine control module (ECM). This data stream provides vital information like vehicle speed and transmission gear. This data makes PedalMonster's Adjustable Speed Trim and Reverse Safety possible (more on these features below).

What is Active Safety?

Like all Banks electronic devices, PedalMonster features normally closed relays. These relays are controlled by Banks patented watchdog circuitry. If the system details an internal or external failure, the relays are instantly closed, allow data and/or current to seamlessly bypass the Banks device. In other words, if a problem occurs, PedalMonster returns your pedal to stock.

What is Reverse Safety? 

Thanks to its unique OBD connectivity, PedalMonster knows when you shift into reverse gear and seamlessly returns the pedal to stock. This prevents you from backing up too quickly. This feature is invaluable when hitching to a trailer or backing up in a parking lot. Reverse Safety is available in most vehicles.

What is Speed Trim? 

Again, thanks to its OBD connectivity, PedalMonster knows what speed the vehicle is traveling. Speed Trim is a user-adjustable menu setting that allows the driver to restrict, or "trim", the amount of sensitivity added at slow speed. As the vehicle exceeds 10 mph, sensitivity is gradually added until it reaches the user's preset sensitivity level. This feature is handy when towing, or driving on slick roads.

What's the difference between the PedalMonster and the Derringer?

PedalMonster, in basic terms, changes the pedal position in relation to the throttle to get rid of that mushy feel. The Derringer is an OBD-II connected inline tuner that connects to the fuel rail pressure sensor (FRP) and manifold absolute pressure sensor (MAP) to increase fuel and boost to provide more horsepower and torque.

PedalMonster Overview, what is the difference between the kits?

Install Guide - PedalMonster owners manual

> PedalMonster Install <

> PedalMonster Uninstall <

How does PedalMonster effect fuel economy?

The PedalMonster was designed to deliver throttle boost when you need it. It was not designed to increase fuel economy. Therefore, we do not advertise fuel economy gains. Fuel economy will depend on many variables including how you drive, how hard you mash the throttle, or PedalMonster level/environment you drive in.

How much power does the Pedal Monster add?

PedalMonster does not increase horsepower or torque, but it does give you complete control over the throttle responsiveness. It removes response delays on your electronic accelerator pedal. In other words, it gets rid of the dreaded "sponge pedal" found in so many of today's cars and trucks.

Does the PedalMonster void my warranty?

The PedalMonster intercepts signals from your pedal and alters them before sending them to the vehicle's computer. The vehicle's computer has no clue it's receiving altered signals. PedalMonster does not alter the vehicle's ECM (computer) in any way. Treat the PedalMonster as you would with altering the truck’s wheels or suspension. While most dealerships understand most aftermarket accessories are harmless, some dealers are not as forgiving. Always check with your service advisor prior to dropping off your truck. When in doubt, simply remove the PedalMonster and its harness. It takes less than 10 minutes. After removal its presence is undetectable; it does not leave a footprint in your ECM.

What iDash firmware do I need in order to use the PedalMonster?

iDash version 1.19 or higher is required to view and control PedalMonster. However, an iDash is not required to control a PedalMonster. You can also monitor and control it with the free iPhone or Android apps.

Where do I download the PedalMonster App?

> Banks Mobile App Download & Tutorial <

> PedalMonster for Apple devices <

> PedalMonster for Andriod Devices <

Can I adjust power levels with the PedalMonster standalone (mobile app) while vehicle is in motion?

No, PedalMonster with mobile app will not allow a user to change power levels unless the vehicle is at a complete stop. In order to change power levels on the fly, you must pair the PedalMonster with our iDash. Apple and Google have strict vehicle safety and liability policies for mobile apps that prevent us from allowing this feature.

What happens if I forget my phone and I am using the standalone PedalMonster?

The PedalMonster will revert to the last setting you left it on.

I want to order the PedalMonster. I already have a Derringer with iDash. It says an OBD splitter is required. Is this included?

An OBD splitter is only required when adding PedalMonster to existing Derringer with 3-position Switch (Derringer with Switch has been discontinued). Derringer with Switch is different than Derringer with iDash. Today, all Derringers are coupled with an iDash. See the owner's manual for a simple wiring diagram.

What safety features does the PedalMonster offer over everyone else?

Currently, no other throttle sensitivity controller has any safety features of any kind, at least any that will actually protect your vehicle from going into limp mode in the event of a failure.

• ActiveSafety failsafe circuitry
• Reverse Safety returns pedal to stock in reverse gear
• Adjustable Low-Speed Trim controls how fast sensitivity is added at slow speeds
• Module powered by +12v via OBD, not low-overhead pedal circuit like Pedal Commander, Sprint Booster and others.

How do I update the firmware?

You can update the Pedal Monster through the mobile app (iOS and Android) or iDash using a microSD card. Instructions can be found in the owner's manual.

How do I calibrate the PedalMonster with the iDash?

First, press the Right Arrow on the iDash to navigate into MENU–>BANKS MODULES–>PEDAL MONSTER–>CALIBRATE. After, press the Right Arrow to acknowledge YES and confirm the calibration process. Fully depress the accelerator pedal and release the pedal. Repeat the process by fully depressing and releasing the pedal. You should see “SUCCESS. CALIBRATION PROCESS IS COMPLETE.”

Do I have to use an iDash or can I use another OBD monitor that is currently installed?

Although the experience and user-interface are far better with an iDash, you can use the PedalMonster with another monitor or electronic logging device (ELD). An OBD splitter can be used to run a PedalMonster stand-alone system with a third-party OBD device. In this scenario, you will control the PedalMonster via the free iPhone or Android mobile app. If you choose to use another OBD device, it will likely fight with the PedalMonster for OBD data. Most modern vehicle engine control modules (ECMs) will only communicate with one diagnostic device at a time. If you choose to pair PedalMonster with another non-Banks OBD device, simply open the PedalMonster's menu and select No-OBD mode. This will disable PedalMonster's OBD connectivity and allow the other device to communicate freely with the vehicle's ECM. The downside to this method is that PedalMonster will no longer know the vehicle's speed and gear and will not return the vehicle to stock throttle response when shifted into reverse gear. 

If I buy the PedalMonster stand-alone, can I add the iDash later?

Yes indeed.

How do I check the firmware version?

> menu > system info > PedalMonster >
> menu > system info > iDash >
> menu > system info > Derringer >

What is Gear Sense?
Gear Sense is software allows PedalMonster to detect when you are in reverse gear to activate the patented Reverse Safety feature.

What is Transmission Select?
This that allows the user to toggle between manual vs automatic transmissions selections. PedalMonster's software will slightly adjust the sensitivity curve for manual transmissions to assist with shifting gears and rev matching.

Can the Derringer tuner and the Pedal Monster work together?

Not only can they work together, they're designed to work as a team, increasing horsepower, torque and pedal sensitivity. The combination dramatically changes the driving experience.

What sets the PedalMonster apart from all the other throttle sensitivity controllers?

PedalMonster vs. Pedal Commander and everyone else