Mikieboyblue, thanks for that site. I had checked it before I bought my phone, but it lists:
Handsfree system displays the cellular network signal strength: Yes

for the w810i. As I said, it gives the meter, but never updates it for as long as the phone stays paired to the car. If I turn off the car and then restart it, I get an updated meter. Anyway, my Motorola V551 updated almost constantly.

Chestr, the meter displays the phone's signal strength with respect to the cellular network. It's not displaying the Bluetooth strength.

B. Goodman