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Recording event data
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
