MAHLE has entered into an agreement with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) that allows it to access FCA’s servers without any hindrance.

As explained in a release, FCA has added a security gateway to protect its OBD interfaces. With the agreement in place between MAHLE and FCA, users of MAHLE’s diagnostic tools, such as TechPRO (MAHLE) or Connex (BRAIN BEE) will be able to access the auto manufacturer’s servers to look up all the information required by them for diagnostics and service.

FCA decided on taking up extensive security measures and added the security gateway when they realized that it was possible for third parties to use diagnostic and connectivity protocols to access security-relevant functions of vehicles. With the gateway in place, users may now read the OBD interface but are not allowed to write or erase entries. Earlier, it was possible to make changes to vehicle systems only by using original FCA testers.

“The workshop will be able to purchase access from us in the form of an annual subscription and subsequently access the FCA portal. All relevant diagnostic additions will then be available and can be fully used. Users will be able to work with their diagnostic tool from MAHLE as usual, switching quickly to the FCA server in order to download the certificate that is required for certain service functions,” explains Joachim Schneeweiss, EMEA Sales Manager at MAHLE Aftermarket Service Solutions.