A new service, Openbay Connect, works to tell drivers about breakdowns ahead of time.
The service uses a smartphone app to read alerts from vehicles' onboard computers and then gets bids on the repairs from local service shops. The goal is to present the driver with a diagnosis and a guaranteed price, service time and ratings on repair shops.
The service, which can be used by drivers with no charge, works with existing devices that monitor vehicles' diagnostic computers. Additionally, a version of the system is already in operation with commercial fleets and other customers.
Openbay will test the service with selected customers starting this spring, before making it widely available. Anyone interested in participating in the test can apply at OpenbayConnect.com.
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