×

Method of diagnosing vehicle malfunction using a telematics unit

  • US 8,515,616 B2
  • Filed: 03/31/2008
  • Issued: 08/20/2013
  • Est. Priority Date: 03/31/2008
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
Patent Images

1. A method of providing diagnostic assistance to a vehicle, comprising the steps of:

  • (a) obtaining indicator data representative of an illuminated warning light displayed on a vehicle instrument panel;

    (b) placing an occupant-initiated call to a call center using a telematics unit installed in the vehicle;

    (c) entering a data mode with the call center when the call is established between the telematics unit and call center and then carrying out the following steps (c1)-(c6);

    (c1) transmitting the indicator data to the call center via the call;

    (c2) identifying a diagnostic test for one or more specific vehicle modules using the indicator data; and

    (c3) transmitting a command to the vehicle telematics unit that initiates the diagnostic test on the vehicle module(s);

    (c4) carrying out the diagnostic test at the vehicle on the vehicle module(s);

    (c5) obtaining diagnostic data resulting from the diagnostic test; and

    (c6) sending the diagnostic data to the call center;

    (d) switching from the data mode to a voice mode with the call center and carrying out the following steps (d1)-(d2);

    (d1) transferring the call to an advisor at the call center; and

    (d2) providing diagnostic assistance to the vehicle occupant using the diagnostic data.

View all claims
  • 14 Assignments
Timeline View
Assignment View
    ×
    ×