What does the check engine light mean and when is it dangerous to drive further?
A check engine light can mean a number of different problems. Find out when to do car diagnostics and when not to force driving.
AutoBit Tips
Practical guides to diagnostics, coding and auto electronics.
Short texts for drivers who want to understand the problem before sending an inquiry or making an appointment.
The car pulls less: is the problem with the turbine, DPF, EGR or something else?
Lower traction can have several causes: turbine, DPF, EGR, sensors, airflow or software. First of all, diagnostics are required.
DPF light comes on: what to do before the problem becomes more expensive?
The DPF light may indicate a clogged filter, a regeneration problem, or a sensor. Find out what to check before going any further.
EGR error on diagnostics: what does it mean and what are the possible causes?
An EGR fault can be related to the valve, intake, sensors, installation, or software. First, the actual cause should be determined.
AdBlue error: why does the mileage countdown appear?
The AdBlue error and the countdown may be related to sensors, the pump, the heater, the fluid level, or the NOx system.
What is vehicle diagnostics and why isn't it the same as just deleting errors?
vehicle diagnostics is not just about erasing errors. The right check involves reading, interpreting and linking the symptoms to the condition of the vehicle.
Why does the error come back after deleting on diagnostics?
If the error returns after deletion, the cause is not resolved. Find out why this is happening and what you need to check.
What is vehicle coding and what options can be activated?
Vehicle coding activates or adjusts the functions that the vehicle supports. Find out what can be coded and why the equipment check goes first.
The most common functions encoded on VW, Audi, Skoda and Seat vehicles
VW, Audi, Skoda and SEAT vehicles often support additional comfort and multimedia functions, depending on the model and equipment.
CarPlay and Android Auto: The Difference Between Factory Support and Activation
CarPlay and Android Auto support depend on the equipment, software and multimedia unit. Find out what it means to be activated.
App-Connect does not work: what to check before activation?
If App-Connect doesn't work, the problem may be system support, software, coding, licensing, or multimedia settings.
Navigation does not work or asks to update the maps: what can be done?
The navigation can ask for map updates, activation, SD card or multimedia checks. Find out what to send for checking.
The radio asks for a code after removing the battery: what to do?
If the radio asks for a code after removing the battery, do not enter random codes. Find out what to prepare for decoding the radio.
FRM module on BMW: symptoms of malfunction and when service is required
The FRM module on BMW vehicles can cause problems with lights, windows and communications. Find out the symptoms and when to do the check.
BCM module: what does it do and what are the symptoms of the problem?
The BCM module manages many body functions. Problems may affect the lights, wipers, central lock, and module communications.
ECU problem or sensor: how does diagnostics help not to change parts by heart?
A fault in the ECU or sensor does not always mean that this part is broken. Diagnostics helps to separate cause from effect.
What is Stage 1 optimization and who does it make sense?
Stage 1 optimization improves the responsiveness and performance of the vehicle, but is only done after checking the technical condition, errors and software.
Stage 1 Before and After: What to Expect and What Not to Expect?
Stage 1 can bring better response and a more comfortable ride, but it is not a magic solution to the vehicle's mechanical problems.
Does Stage 1 increase fuel economy?
Consumption after Stage 1 optimisation depends on the driving style, the condition of the vehicle and how the additional performance is used.
Why is factory software backup important before chiptuning?
Backing up the factory software before chiptuning preserves the original state and gives more control over the software operation.
BMW FRM3 module: symptoms of malfunction, diagnostics and repair options
The BMW FRM3 module can cause lights, windows and central locks to malfunction. Find out what symptoms to check before repairing or coding.
BMW CAS, FEM and BDC module: what are they for and what symptoms indicate a problem?
BMW CAS, FEM and BDC modules are involved in the actuation and functions of the body. Find out the symptoms and why detailed diagnostics are important.
Mercedes SAM module: symptoms of malfunction and what to check before replacement
The Mercedes SAM module distributes the power supply and manages a number of functions. Find out the symptoms of malfunction and what diagnostics need to check.
Peugeot and Citroën BSI module: symptoms of problems and proper diagnostics
The BSI module on Peugeot and Citroën vehicles controls the functions of the body. Find out the symptoms and why voltage and communication are checked first.
Opel CIM module: symptoms of problems with the steering wheel, key and communication
The Opel CIM module connects steering wheel controls, key and other systems. Find out what symptoms require diagnostics before repair or replacement.
Renault UCH module: symptoms of central electronics malfunction
The Renault UCH module controls locking, lighting and other body functions. Find out the symptoms and course of diagnosis.
VW, Audi, Skoda and Seat Gateway module: can it drain the battery?
The gateway module connects the vehicle's electronic VAG systems. Find out when it may be related to battery drain and how the problem is measured.
Decoding multimedia and radio code: what data is needed?
Radio or multimedia is looking for a code? Find out what information is needed to verify, why the serial number needs to be correct, and what not to try.
Auto navigation does not find maps or SD card: what to check?
Navigation does not see the maps, SD card or keeps asking for activation? Learn how to differentiate between data, card, license, and device issues.
Android Auto does not connect the phone: cable, settings or multimedia?
Android Auto won't connect or disconnect? Check the cable, USB port, phone permissions, and multimedia system support.
Start-Stop does not work: the most common reasons why the system does not activate
The start-stop system is not activated? The condition of the battery, temperature, DPF regeneration and climate requirements are just some possible reasons.
Can a low battery cause multiple electronic faults at once?
A low battery and voltage drop can report faults in multiple modules. Learn how to distinguish the consequence of low voltage from an actual failure.
Stage 1 on diesel and petrol: where is the difference felt the most?
Stage 1 does not give the same result on every engine. Find out the difference between turbo diesel, turbo petrol and naturally aspirated engine.
How much does it cost to drive and what does the price depend on?
The cost of car diagnostics depends on the scope of the check and the complexity of the problem. Learn the difference between reading an error and looking for the cause.
How long does it take to code a vehicle and what is needed before the appointment?
The duration of vehicle coding depends on the function, module and software. Find out what to send before the appointment and why the equipment is checked first.