Cookies: Our site uses cookies in order to deliver better content. By continuing you accept these cookies.
See all devices compared
Expand your fleet with Mini
Upgrade your fleet's IQ with CM4
Increase fleet visibility and secure all your operations in real-time
Optimize your operations or projects by obtaining insightful telematics data
Secure your operations with precise localization and secure key management
Manage your code in a secure and standardized method
Strengthen your data flow with an All-in-one gateway
Explore some of our exiting topics
Explore our extensive Cloud API
Get answers to your questions in our documentation
Get inspired by the potential
Reach out to our support for extended help
Our shop offer a wide selection accesories to your project
Get an introduction to our cloud for businesses. Schedule your demo for FREE
Do you have any questions? We have compiled a list of very useful faqs
Learn more about what it means to be a part of AutoPi
Contact us about solutions for your business or projects
Check out our open positions
Login to your AutoPi cloud account here
4 min read
An Event Data Recorder (EDR) is a component of a vehicle's electronic system, often likened to an airplane's "black box". It continually records a range of data about the vehicle's operation, including speed, throttle position, airbag deployment, and brake application. When a triggering event, such as a crash or sudden braking, occurs, the EDR stores a snapshot of this data from the moments before, during, and after the event.
EDRs have become increasingly common in modern vehicles, being standard in most new cars sold in the United States. Notable manufacturers include Ford, Toyota, General Motors, and more. To find out if your specific vehicle model has an EDR, you may consult your vehicle's owner manual or contact the manufacturer.
The "event data recorder vehicle list" is not exhaustive because, while some countries have made it mandatory for all new vehicles to have EDRs installed, it is not a universal requirement. However, according to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), as of 2014, 96% of all new vehicles sold in the U.S. are equipped with an EDR.
To answer the question, "Does my car have an event data recorder?", you first need to refer to your vehicle's owner manual. Usually, it's explicitly mentioned if your car has an EDR. You can also check for an EDR presence via an OBD2 scanner if you have technical know-how.
The location of an EDR varies by manufacturer and model, but they are typically integrated with the airbag control module due to their shared interest in vehicle crash data.
In the end, EDRs serve a significant role in enhancing vehicle safety. They provide critical insights into the moments leading up to, during, and after a crash, helping investigators understand the sequence of events and contributing to the improvement of vehicle safety systems.
As a vehicle owner, it's essential to know whether your vehicle has an EDR, as this data can also be useful in resolving insurance claims and legal disputes related to road accidents. It's another layer of safety and reassurance in our increasingly digital world of motoring.
Remember, while this glossary serves as a beginner's guide, consulting with a professional for further clarification about the specifics of your vehicle's systems is always recommended.
Get in touch with us – We're ready to answer any and all questions.
* Mandatory fields
Email our engineers
We are here to help!
E-mail us at sales@autopi.io or use the form below. We will get back to you ASAP.