We are now familiar with our PCs and smartphones needing to be restarted to initiate the update of the user interface, APPs and the operating system. Modern German cars are not dissimilar in the sense that they too, use computing power for smooth riding.
Controlled by a number of Electronic Control Units (ECUs), modern German Cars are controlled by computers. For instance, the amount of fuel injected into the combustion chamber depends on a number of variable and even going “full throttle” will not necessarily result in the fuel flood gates being fully opened as the vehicle is programmed to be as fuel efficient as possible.
With the use of ECUs comes the need to update them or a regular basis. Patches or performance enhancing changes need to be applied. Although the on-board software is ensuring driving pleasure, our technicians know that Modern German cars have tightly integrated electronic systems where one change can affect many others. Updates ensure these systems communicate properly.
One way to track the need to carry out any updates is to regularly check the infotainment system of the vehicle. Manufacturers may have scheduled notifications and as a driver, one should look out for these notifications.
In the case of un-scheduled updates being required, a car maker may issue a notice to owners to have the vehicle checked and its software updated. German Motors is monitoring these notices and pro-actively contacts customers who might be affected by any such update notice.
At German Motors, we will keep track of the updates required. Thanks to a full arsenal of sophisticated diagnostic tools, we are able to update most German vehicles’ software. Our team pro-actively checks for updates needed when you send in your German car for regular servicing.
You may want to keep track of the updates done yourself for peace of mind. Keeping good records of the work done to your car can only be helpful in assessing its value in case you would want to sell it.
