Data Items

Using telematics devices, cars can distribute data for many purposes for an end-user. Car data is created by electrical sensors linked to the ECU or Electronic Control Unit. An ECU is linked to an onboard telematics device which transmits live data. A user in a central location receives this data over the air, with an end interface that can be configured in a way that works for their business.Many attributes of a car can be transmitted live or at set intervals using GPS and mobile data networks.

Using car data, fleet management companies analyse their vehicles to help reduce costs, prevent maintenance issues and schedule service appointments in advance. Governments and councils can use car technical data to better manage traffic. Insurance companies can have real-world use cases for their customers and the introduction of smart cities with connected cars results in more efficient infrastructure. Most importantly, emergency services receive live vehicle data to accurately locate an accident, with automatic triggers to call ambulances if the vehicle senses it is in a severe accident.

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Our connected car data catalogue grows with every new manufacturer. Explore the variety of data items available via our Auto API.

Full Data Catalog

Our data catalog on Airtable contains technical information specific to each data category, including its properties and their production availability.

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What is Trouble Codes Data?

Diagnostic trouble codes also referred to as engine fault codes, are five-digit codes that showcase certain problems and issues with the vehicle. These codes can be seen by using a scanning tool where codes are displayed after the tool scans the OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) system. These five-digit codes usually contain one letter and four numbers, an example being D-4532.

The first number in the DTC lets you know specific vehicle manufacturer codes or an SAE generic code that applies to all OBD II systems. The last three numbers provide information regarding the specific vehicle circuit and sub-category.

Use Cases

The scanned trouble codes can be retrieved by the telematics device and forwarded to the fleet management company. Here they undergo a detailed inspection to determine what the issue is and how it can be solved. This can range anywhere from minor issues such as exhaust gas temperature sensor failure to ignition problems and much more. Major issues such as fuel injectors, ignition timing or brake pad wear pose a greater threat to vehicle function.

Fleet management after receiving fault codes can suggest where and what kind of fix is required. Or if it is likely the car is on its last journey and a total engine refurb is needed.

It is primarily beneficial for the owners of vehicles because timely indication of the problem helps them find a fast solution. Saving them from any major accidents as well as long trips to the mechanic reduces fleet numbers and costs businesses time and money.

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