Question 1

What is ChatMecano?

Accepted Answer

ChatMecano is an AI-powered assistant designed specifically for auto repair shops and professional mechanics, 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. ChatMecano is supported by CPA Quebec for the improvement of integrated mechanic training within the app.

Question 2

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 3

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 4

How much does ChatMecano cost?

Accepted Answer

ChatMecano offers three options: 1) the OBD2 Connector at $95 USD (one-time purchase of the Bluetooth OBD2 connector with full app access for up to 3 vehicles for life); 2) the Pro plan at $9.99 USD/month per user with unlimited vehicles and a 7-day free trial; 3) the Pro + ChatMecano Device plan ($295 USD for the ultra-rugged device + $95 USD for the connector + Pro subscription), recommended for shops that want performance, durability, and stronger data privacy.

Question 5

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 mechanic directly in the app.

Question 6

How does ChatMecano help auto repair shops save time?

Accepted Answer

ChatMecano gives mechanics 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 7

How does the OBD2 Check Engine AI analysis work?

Accepted Answer

With the Pro plan, ChatMecano connects to the vehicle's computer via the ChatMecano Bluetooth OBD2 connector from any mobile phone or the dedicated device. 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 8

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 mechanics quickly understand what each code means, possible causes, and recommended repair procedures.

Question 9

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. The dedicated device plan offers an additional layer of security for client data privacy.

Question 10

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 11

Who is behind ChatMecano?

Accepted Answer

ChatMecano is led by a former shop owner who understands the daily reality of auto repair shops. The app is also supported by CPA Quebec for the improvement of mechanic training. It's a tool built by and for automotive professionals.