Privacy Policy

Effective Date: June 26, 2026 | Last Updated: June 26, 2026

1. Introduction

MechanicAI ("we", "us", "our") describes here how we collect, use, and protect information when you use the MechanicAI mobile application.

2. Information We Collect

  • Vehicle Diagnostic Data: Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), freeze frame data, live sensor readings, and vehicle information (year, make, model, engine, modification profile). Collected only when you initiate a scan.
  • Test Drive Data: When you start a Test Drive, the App records live OBD-II sensor readings (such as RPM, speed, coolant temperature, and throttle) at approximately one sample per second, any diagnostic trouble codes that appear during the drive, and the vehicle's VIN. This drive data is stored on your device. To generate the optional AI drive summary, a downsampled summary of the readings (per-parameter minimum / average / maximum), the trouble codes, and vehicle information (including VIN) are sent to our backend for analysis (see Section 4). Collected only when you start a Test Drive.
  • Device Information: A per-install device identifier used to enforce rate limits. We do not collect name, email, phone, or location through the app unless voluntarily provided via our support form.

We do not use any third-party analytics, advertising, or tracking SDKs in the app, and we do not track you across other apps or websites.

3. How We Use Your Information

  • To provide AI-powered diagnostic analysis
  • To maintain scan history and conversation context
  • To improve diagnostic accuracy and AI quality
  • To enforce rate limits and prevent abuse
  • To respond to support requests

4. Third-Party Services

  • Anthropic (Claude API): When you request an AI diagnostic or an AI Test Drive summary, the app sends your per-install device identifier and vehicle diagnostic data (VIN, trouble codes, and sensor readings — for a Test Drive, a downsampled summary of the drive's readings) to our backend, which forwards it to Anthropic for AI analysis and returns the result. Anthropic does not use API inputs to train its models. A Test Drive report can also be generated entirely on your device with no network connection, in which case no drive data leaves your device.
  • Apple App Store: Subscription and payment processing is handled entirely by Apple. We do not access your payment information.

5. Data Storage & Retention

  • Scan history is stored on-device using Apple SwiftData. We do not access on-device data.
  • Our backend forwards your diagnostic data to Anthropic to generate a response and returns it to your device. It does not retain your scans, conversations, or drive telemetry; it stores only an anonymous per-install usage count to enforce monthly scan and Test Drive limits.
  • Test Drive sessions (the recorded readings, events, and the generated report) are stored on your device using Apple SwiftData. We do not access on-device data.

6. Sharing Reports You Create

A Test Drive report or scan you choose to share may contain vehicle-identifying information. The VIN is shown masked (for example, ••••LAST4) by default; unmasking it is your choice. You are responsible for what you share and with whom, including obtaining any consent required before sharing a vehicle's data or report.

7. Data Sharing

We do not sell or rent your personal information, and we do not share it for marketing purposes. The only third party your diagnostic data is sent to is Anthropic, solely to generate your AI analysis (see Section 4). We may disclose information if required by law or to protect our legal rights.

8. Your Rights

  • Access: View your scan history directly within the app.
  • Deletion: Delete your scan history at any time in the app settings. Because your scans are stored on your device, deleting them removes them entirely.
  • Questions: Email obdmechanic.ai@gmail.com with any privacy request or question.

9. Children's Privacy

MechanicAI is not directed at children under 13. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children under 13.

10. Security

We use industry-standard HTTPS encryption to protect data in transit. However, no method of electronic transmission or storage is 100% secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute security.

11. Changes to This Policy

We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time. We will notify you of any changes by posting the new policy on this page and through the app or website.

12. Contact Us

If you have questions about this Privacy Policy, please contact us at obdmechanic.ai@gmail.com.

MechanicAI
Alberta, Canada

MechanicAI

A data-driven second opinion on a used car's engine — before you buy.

Mount your phone or hand it to a passenger — never operate the app while driving. Recording runs hands-free.

© 2026 MechanicAI. An informational tool, not a substitute for professional mechanical inspection.