236Customer informationOperating data in the vehicleControl units process data for
operation of the vehicle.
This data includes, e.g.: ● vehicle status information (e.g. speed, movement delay, lateral
acceleration, wheel rotation rate, "seat belts fastened" display)
● ambient conditions (e.g. temperature, rain sensor,
distance sensor)
As a rule such data is transient, not
stored for longer than an operational
cycle, and only processed on board the vehicle itself. Control units often
include data storage (including the
vehicle key). This is used to allow
information to be documented
temporarily or permanently on vehicle
condition, component stress,
maintenance requirements and
technical events and errors.Depending on technical equipment
level, the data stored is as follows:
● system component operating states (e.g. fill level, tyre
pressure, battery status)
● faults and defects in important system components (e.g. lights,
brakes)
● system reactions in special driving situations (e.g. triggering
of an airbag, actuation of the
stability control systems)
● information on events damaging the vehicle
● for electric vehicles the amount of
charge in the high-voltage
battery, estimated range
In special cases (e.g. if the vehicle
has detected a malfunction), it may be
necessary to save data that would
otherwise just be volatile.
When you use services (e.g. repairs,
maintenance), the operating data
saved can be read together with the
vehicle identification number and
used when necessary. Staff working
for the service network ( e.g. garages,
manufacturers) or third parties (e.g.breakdown services) can read the
data from the vehicle. The same
applies to warranty work and quality
assurance measures.
Data is generally read via the OBD
(On-Board Diagnostics) port
prescribed by law in the vehicle. The operating data which is read out,
documents the technical condition of
the vehicle or individual components
and assists with fault diagnosis,
compliance with warranty obligations
and quality improvement. This data,
in particular information on
component stress, technical events,
operator errors and other faults, is
transmitted to the manufacturer
where appropriate, together with the
vehicle identification number. The
manufacturer is also subject to
product liability. The manufacturer
potentially also uses operating data
from vehicles for product recalls. This
data can also be used to check
customer warranty and guarantee
claims.
Fault memories in the vehicle can be
reset by a service company when
carrying out servicing or repairs or at
your request.
