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Vehicle data recording and privacy
13Vehicle data recording
and privacy
Electronic control units are installed in your
vehicle. These control units process data
received from the vehicle's sensors, for example,
or data they generate themselves or exchange
with each other. Some of these control units are
required for the correct operation of your vehicle,
some others assist you while driving (driving or
manoeuvring aids), while others provide comfort
or infotainment functions.
The following contains general information about
how data is processed within the vehicle.
You will find additional information about the
specific data which is downloaded, stored
and transmitted to third parties and what it is
used for in your vehicle under the keyword
"Data protection". This information is directly
associated with the references for the functions
in question contained in the corresponding
vehicle handbook, or in the general terms and
conditions of sale.
This information is also available online.
Vehicle operating data
The control units process the data used for the
operation of the vehicle.
This data includes, for example:
–
Information about the state of the vehicle
(e.g.
speed, travel time, lateral acceleration,
wheel rotation rate, fastened seat belts display). –
Environmental conditions (e.g.
temperature,
rain sensor, distance sensor).
As a general rule, this data is temporary, is
not stored for longer than one operating cycle
and is only used within the vehicle itself. The
control units often record this data (including the
vehicle's key). This function allows either the
temporary or permanent storage of information
about the state of the vehicle, stresses on
components, servicing requirements, as well as
events and technical errors.
Depending on the vehicle's equipment level, the
data stored is as follows:
–
Operating state of system components
(e.g.
filling level, tyre pressures, battery charge
status).
–
Faults and malfunctions in important system
components (e.g.
lamps, brakes).
–
System reactions in specific driving situations
(e.g.
deployment of an airbag, triggering of
stability control and braking systems).
–
Information about events which have
damaged the vehicle.
–
For electric and rechargeable hybrid vehicles,
the traction battery charge level and the
estimated driving range.
In particular circumstances (e.g.
if the vehicle
has detected a malfunction), it may be necessary
to record data which would otherwise simply not
be stored.
When taking your vehicle in for servicing
(e.g.
repairs, maintenance), the stored operating
data may be read along with the vehicle's identification number and used if necessary.
The personnel working for the servicing network
(e.g.
garages, manufacturers) or third parties
(e.g. roadside assistance agents) may read
the vehicle's data. This also applies to work
carried out under warranty and quality assurance
measures.
This data is generally read via the OBD
(On-Board Diagnostics) port fitted by law to
the vehicle. It is used to report on the technical
state of the vehicle or its components and
facilitates the diagnosis of malfunctions, in
compliance with warranty obligations and for
quality improvement. This data, in particular the
information relating to stress on components,
technical events, operator errors and other
malfunctions, is sent to the Manufacturer, if
necessary, along with the vehicle's identification
number. The Manufacturer's liability may also be
engaged. The Manufacturer may also use the
operating data taken from the vehicle for product
recalls. This data may also be used to check the
customer's warranty and any claims made under
warranty.
Any malfunctions stored in the vehicle may be
reset by an after-sales service company during
servicing or repair work, or at your request.
