Method and apparatus for translating vehicle diagnostic trouble codes
AssigneeAmerican Automobile Association, Inc.
InventorsFrederick Lorenz, John Nielsen, Dwayne Shumate
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Abstract
A method and apparatus for translating diagnostic trouble codes which are generated in response to faults in the performance of motor vehicles are characterized by the use of a diagnostic code translator which receives diagnostic trouble codes and other information relating to the operating parameters of the vehicle at the time of a fault and analyzes the information to generate messages relating to the fault. The messages are transmitted to the vehicle driver so that corrective action may be taken.
Claims16
A method for translating diagnostic trouble codes from motor vehicles, comprising the steps of
- (a) detecting a diagnostic code corresponding to a fault in the operation of the motor vehicle;
- (b) transmitting the detected code to a central server which identifies the vehicle and associates it with the detected code;
- (c) translating the detected code to produce a message which indicates the severity of the fault and provides information to remedy the fault;
- and
- (d) communicating the message to the operator of the vehicle.
Apparatus for translating diagnostic trouble codes from motor vehicles, comprising
- (a) a telematics device connected with a motor vehicle for detecting a diagnostic code in response to a fault in the performance of the vehicle and transmitting the diagnostic code and vehicle information;
- (b) a data server for receiving said diagnostic code and vehicle information from said telematics device and generating a query containing said diagnostic code and vehicle information;
- (c) a data code translator which receives said query and translates the diagnostic code to produce a message which indicates the severity of the fault and provides information to remedy the fault;
- (d) a communication device for transmitting the message to the operator of the vehicle.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.