Why technology is the future of car care

In today's fast-paced world, technological advancements are transforming various industries, including the automotive sector. Car repairs have experienced a significant change, with modern technology enhancing the diagnosis and resolution of mechanical issues as never before.

Traditionally, identifying a malfunction in a vehicle required extensive mechanical knowledge, time-consuming inspections and often involved a frustrating trial-and-error process. Car owners relied on experienced mechanics to manually assess problems related to the engine, brakes, or electrical systems. However, advancements in automotive technology have made vehicle maintenance much more efficient, precise, and less stressful.

Daniel Ssemaganda, a service attendant at City Oil Fuel Station on Bombo Road in Kampala, highlights how technology has significantly transformed car maintenance.

"The tools and systems available today help in identifying irregularities and predicting potential failures. This allows for proactive maintenance, which is more reliable and cost-efficient for both car owners and technicians," he explains.

However, Ssemaganda also points out that while technology is a game-changer, it comes with its own set of challenges. "One of the biggest hurdles is the need for continuous learning. As cars become more advanced, we have to keep upgrading our skills through training. Mechanics who fail to adapt risk falling behind and struggling to handle the latest vehicle technologies."

Onboard Diagnostic Systems (OBD-II)

OBD-II is a standardised system installed in most modern vehicles to monitor and report engine performance, emissions and overall vehicle health. By plugging a diagnostic scanner into the OBD-II port (usually found under the dashboard), mechanics and car owners can access real-time error codes and pinpoint mechanical issues without the need for extensive dismantling.

"Before OBD-II, many people relied on guesswork, physical inspections, test drives and mechanical intuition to diagnose faults. This often led to misdiagnoses, unnecessary part replacements, and longer repair times. Today, with just a scan, you can know exactly what is wrong and fix it immediately. The adoption of OBD-II has made car maintenance more efficient and accurate," Ssemaganda says.

Other advanced diagnostic tools, such as multimeters and amperage testers, also play a crucial role in enhancing car maintenance.

Smart sensors

Smart sensors are another game-changing innovation embedded within a vehicle to monitor essential components such as the engine, brakes, tyres, and transmission. These sensors collect real-time data on a car’s performance, detect abnormalities and send alerts to the vehicle owner or technician during maintenance.

Smart sensors are revolutionising car maintenance by providing continuous monitoring and early detection of issues. They detect problems such as low tyre pressure, engine and oil temperature changes, and brake wear.

"These sensors ensure that even minor issues are flagged early, allowing for faster and more accurate maintenance. Car sensors can tell when something is off, often before the driver even notices. It is like having a constant check-up without needing to take your car to the garage every time," Ssemaganda notes.

These sensors work alongside telematics systems, which use GPS and wireless communication to provide remote diagnostics and maintenance alerts.

Mobile car repair apps

Just as ordering food from the Glovo mobile App, mobile car repair apps allow users to schedule appointments, request roadside assistance, compare prices and access diagnostic reports directly from their smartphones.

Although many car owners still rely on manual searches, phone calls, or physical visits to garages, digital platforms are making car maintenance faster, more transparent, and highly convenient. These apps connect car owners to professionals, eliminating the hassle of word-of-mouth recommendations.

Applications such as Makanika Dot Com have helped many vehicle owners book services with just a few taps. The app also connects users with trusted service providers, fuel stations, and car accessory suppliers.

As these apps streamline car maintenance, they enhance efficiency by reducing the time spent searching for mechanics or service centres. They also help mechanics reach more customers while giving car owners peace of mind, knowing they are dealing with verified service providers. With the integration of AI-driven diagnostics and remote vehicle monitoring, these apps are set to further revolutionise the industry.

Predictive maintenance

Most modern vehicles now incorporate predictive maintenance technology, which uses AI algorithms to analyse vehicle data and predict when certain parts are likely to fail. This allows mechanics to address issues before they become serious.

Predictive maintenance shifts car care from reactive to proactive, reducing emergency repairs and extending vehicle lifespan, ultimately lowering maintenance costs.

Keith Lubega, a mechanic in Kampala, highlights the benefits: "With predictive maintenance, you do not have to wait for something to break down. Mechanics used to rely on clients’ reports of symptoms or routine inspections, but AI now predicts failures and prevents unexpected breakdowns."

Many modern vehicles also come equipped with sensors that alert drivers to potential issues before they escalate. For example, dashboard warning lights indicate everything from low tyre pressure to engine misfires, and some vehicles even have apps that notify owners when it's time for servicing.

Augmented Reality (AR)

Augmented Reality (AR) provides technicians with a visual, interactive experience, helping them understand complex maintenance tasks through step-by-step instructions overlaid on actual vehicle components. AR displays information about the car’s inner workings, allowing technicians to visualise repair procedures in real time.

This technology simplifies complex repairs, enhances accuracy and boosts technicians’ confidence.

"Some repairs, such as electrical issues or engine component replacements, can be tricky. AR guides us through every step, reducing errors and speeding up the process, making car repairs more efficient and precise," Ssemaganda says.

EV AND HYBRID VEHICLE DIAGNOSTICS

Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Hybrid Vehicles (HVs) operate differently from traditional internal combustion engine (ICE) cars, using electric motors, battery packs, and advanced energy management systems. As they become more common, specialised diagnostic tools are being developed to handle their unique maintenance needs. ‘‘Unlike conventional cars, EVs and hybrids rely heavily on electronic systems, requiring technicians to use high-tech scanners to check battery performance, motor efficiency and software updates instead of just inspecting belts and fluids,’’ Keith Lubega, a mechanic, explains.