Patent ID: 8126862

Claim:
A computer system for maintaining a file related to repairs and service performed on a vehicle over the life of the vehicle, the computer system comprising: a communications interface; a processor remote to the vehicle, the processor coupled to the communications interface; and a memory remote to the vehicle, the memory coupled to the processor and storing instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: (a) receive an entry through the communications interface, the entry including data from a user, the data including the identification of the user, at least one of audio data and video data, reference information to identify the entry, and one or more of (i) information related to service or repair performed on the vehicle, (ii) recommended service or repair for the vehicle, and (iii) a customer's instructions concerning service or repair to be performed on the vehicle; (b) store a file on the computer system, the file comprising: the entry and a vehicle identifier; (c) make the file remotely retrievable by (i) any authorized user using either a user identifier or the vehicle identifier, and (ii) the customer by using either a customer identifier or the vehicle identifier.