Question 1

What is ChatMecano?

Accepted Answer

ChatMecano is an AI-powered OBD2 scanner and automotive repair assistant for professional mechanics and DIY repairers, founded by a former shop owner. It speeds up the information lookup process — from VIN decoding to maintenance schedules, OBD fault codes, fluid specifications, and more.

Question 2

Is ChatMecano an OBD2 scanner?

Accepted Answer

Yes. With the ChatMecano Bluetooth OBD2 connector plugged into any phone, the app works as an AI OBD2 scanner: it reads active and stored Check Engine codes from the vehicle and analyzes them, giving you prioritized diagnostic paths instead of just a code number.

Question 3

What do I need to use the OBD2 scanner?

Accepted Answer

Only the ChatMecano Bluetooth OBD2 connector and a phone with the app. The connector plugs into the vehicle OBD-II port (standard on every vehicle since 1996) and works with both Android phones and iPhones.

Question 4

Can ChatMecano decode a VIN?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Simply snap a photo of the VIN with the app and ChatMecano decodes it ultra-fast — giving you the make, model, year, engine size, trim level, and full vehicle specifications. No manual typing required.

Question 5

Does ChatMecano work for US vehicles?

Accepted Answer

Yes, ChatMecano covers most vehicles sold in the United States and Canada, including domestic and import cars, light trucks, SUVs, and vans from all major manufacturers.

Question 6

How much does ChatMecano cost?

Accepted Answer

ChatMecano offers two per-user plans with unlimited questions and vehicles: 1) the recommended one-time purchase of the ChatMecano OBD2 connector at $119 USD — no subscription — including free shipping and 1 year of unlimited app access; 2) the $9.95 USD monthly subscription for long-term users, with the connector sold separately. Anyone can try the AI assistant free.

Question 7

Can ChatMecano help with tires?

Accepted Answer

Yes! ChatMecano can provide tire sizes, recommended pressures, lug nut specs in seconds, and can even analyze a tire from a photo taken by the user directly in the app.

Question 8

How does ChatMecano help auto repair shops save time?

Accepted Answer

ChatMecano gives users and service advisors instant access to information that would normally take minutes to look up manually: recommended maintenance intervals, fluid specifications, OBD trouble codes, TSBs, recalls, tire info and more. It's like having a technical research assistant available 24/7.

Question 9

How does the OBD2 Check Engine AI analysis work?

Accepted Answer

With the ChatMecano OBD2 scanner, the app connects to the vehicle's computer via the ChatMecano Bluetooth OBD2 connector from any mobile phone. It can read and analyze all active and historical Check Engine codes stored in the vehicle's computer using artificial intelligence, providing you with precise diagnostic leads and repair recommendations.

Question 10

What are OBD codes and how does ChatMecano help?

Accepted Answer

OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) codes are fault codes generated by a vehicle's computer system. ChatMecano helps users quickly understand what each code means, possible causes, and recommended repair procedures.

Question 11

Is ChatMecano compliant with US privacy laws?

Accepted Answer

Yes, ChatMecano follows Privacy by Design principles and is compliant with applicable US state privacy laws. Your shop's data is securely hosted and is not used for AI training.

Question 12

Can ChatMecano analyze repair photos?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can upload photos or documents directly into the conversation. The AI analyzes images to assist with diagnostics — whether it's parts, tires, or documents — and stores everything confidentially.

Question 13

Who is behind ChatMecano?

Accepted Answer

ChatMecano is led by a former shop owner who understands the daily reality of auto repair shops. It's a tool built by and for automotive professionals.