New methods for aftermarket diagnostics and software updates

     Vector announced vService, a new approach to aftermarket diagnostics and programming. vService redefines diagnostics from engineering to aftermarket, using collaboration, connectivity, and data to initiate agile transformation and prepare for the aftermarket of the next generation of software-defined vehicles.

     Emerging automotive technologies bring new challenges to after-sales service. The service addresses these challenges by combining OTW and OTA connectivity, providing diagnostics, fleet observability, and software updates that can be operated remotely on the shop floor or anywhere in the world. The service is open connectivity, wired using the J2534 and D-PDU apis, and can connect to OTAs via service-oriented vehicle diagnostics (SOVD) or existing vehicle apis.

     The solution allows continuous delivery of diagnostic content directly from design data and supports remote collaboration between shop floor and plant for faster problem resolution. Encourage technicians to share diagnostic insights and results to create a collaborative service environment. This innovative approach minimizes vehicle downtime and improves operational efficiency.

     The solution brings visibility to the aftermarket fleet. OTA and OTW data are aggregated to provide actionable insights that give manufacturers a head start on emerging issues. Based on these insights, the problem can be traced back to a single vehicle, where historical data and remote commands help find the root of the problem without having to visit the workshop.

     To simplify software update management and R156 compliance, the service supports mixed OTA and OTW delivered update activities. This allows Oems to choose the best download channel for updates without duplication or coordination between systems. With the option to deliver updates over the network, support for independent repair procedures is standard.

     "With vService, we set out to create something transformative. Matt Monnington, product Manager at Vector vService, said, "Instead of doing the same old thing with new technology and making additional systems for OTAs, we built a solution that makes it easier to develop diagnostic content, manage updates, find issues, and resolve issues. Regardless of how the vehicle is connected, this creates a huge opportunity to make after-sales service more flexible."