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Frequently asked questions

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General Questions
What is Moticar?

Moticar is a mobile app that helps you understand the true cost of owning and running your car. It tracks expenses, logs trips, monitors vehicle health, and reminds you about maintenance — all in one place.

With motiBuddie (our optional plug-in device), most of this happens automatically.

Is Moticar free?

Yes. The core app is free to download and use. You can track expenses, set budgets, get document expiry reminders, and view monthly reports at no cost.

Premium features like automatic trip logging, live diagnostics, and cost-per-mile calculations come with the motiBuddie device.

What's the difference between Moticar and motiBuddie?

Moticar is the mobile app (free on iOS and Android). motiBuddie is an optional hardware device that plugs into your car's diagnostic port.

The app works on its own with manual input. motiBuddie automates everything — trip logging, mileage tracking, fuel consumption, engine health, and vehicle security.

What cars does Moticar work with?

The app works with any car — just enter your vehicle details and start tracking. The motiBuddie device works with most petrol and diesel vehicles built after 1996 that have a standard diagnostic port.

This includes Toyota, Honda, Mercedes, BMW, VW, Hyundai, Lexus, Ford, Kia, Nissan, and most other major brands.

Is Moticar available in my country?

The app is available worldwide on the App Store and Google Play. The motiBuddie device ships to most countries — delivery times and costs vary by region and are shown at checkout.

motiBuddie Device
How do I install motiBuddie?

It plugs directly into your car's diagnostic port — usually under the dashboard near the steering column. No tools or mechanic needed.

  1. Find the port (use the locator card in the box)
  2. Plug motiBuddie in
  3. Turn your ignition to ON
  4. Open the Moticar app and tap "Connect motiBuddie"
  5. It pairs via Bluetooth in under 30 seconds

The whole process takes less than 5 minutes.

Will it drain my car battery?

No. It draws less power than your car's clock. It monitors battery voltage and enters sleep mode automatically if it drops below safe levels. For extended non-use (2+ weeks), we recommend unplugging it.

Does it need to stay plugged in?

Yes, for the best experience. It works in the background — logging trips, monitoring health, and sending security alerts. If you unplug it, those features pause. All recorded data stays safe in the app.

Can I use one device in multiple cars?

You can move it between cars, but it pairs with one vehicle at a time. To switch, unplug it, re-pair in the app, and plug into the new car. For simultaneous tracking, each car needs its own device.

Is the SIM card included?

Yes. Every motiBuddie ships with a pre-installed 4G SIM. Cellular connectivity for GPS and alerts is included for the first 12 months — no extra cost.

What's in the box?
  • 1× motiBuddie smart device
  • 1× Pre-installed 4G SIM card
  • 1× Quick start guide
  • 1× Port locator card
Mobile App
Where can I download the app?

Free on the App Store (iOS 14+) and Google Play (Android 8+). Search for "Moticar" or use the links on our website.

Does the app work without motiBuddie?

Yes. You can manually log expenses, set reminders, track documents, and view reports. motiBuddie adds automation — trips, diagnostics, GPS, and security.

Does the app work offline?

Yes. Expense logging, reminders, trip viewing, and document storage all work without internet. Data syncs when you're back online.

Can I track more than one car?

Free plan: 1 vehicle. Moticar Pro: up to 3 vehicles with separate tracking for each. Fleet plans available for larger numbers.

Can I share access with someone?

Yes. Invite family members, drivers, or fleet managers to view or log expenses for a specific vehicle. They get their own login without access to your other cars.

Account
How do I create an account?

Download the app, tap "Get Started," and sign up with email or social login (Google/Apple). Verify with a 6-digit code. Takes under 30 seconds.

I forgot my password

On the login screen, tap "Forgot password?" and enter your email. You'll get a reset link within minutes. Check spam if you don't see it.

How do I change my email?

Settings → Profile → Update email. You'll need to verify the new address.

How do I delete my account?

Settings → Account → "Delete my account." This permanently removes all data. It cannot be undone.

Is my data secure?

Yes. All data is encrypted in transit and at rest. We don't sell or share personal information. You can export or delete your data anytime.

Billing & Shipping
How much does motiBuddie cost?

One-time purchase, no subscriptions. Price includes device, SIM, 12 months data, and Moticar Pro access. See the motiBuddie page for pricing.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes. We ship to most countries. Delivery times and costs vary by region and are shown at checkout. Most orders arrive within 5–7 business days.

What payment methods do you accept?

Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. All payments processed securely.

What's the return policy?

30-day money-back guarantee. Doesn't work with your car or not satisfied? Return in original condition for a full refund. Email support@usemoticar.com to start.

Who pays customs duties?

International orders: the recipient covers local customs fees, duties, or taxes. These vary by country and aren't included in the price.

How do I track my order?

You'll get a tracking email after shipment. If you haven't received it within 3 business days, contact support@usemoticar.com.

Technical Issues
My phone can't find the motiBuddie device
  1. Turn ignition to ON (engine off is fine)
  2. Check motiBuddie is firmly plugged in
  3. Enable Bluetooth (Android: also Location Services)
  4. In the app, tap "Connect motiBuddie"
  5. Try unplugging, waiting 10 seconds, plugging back in
  6. Restart your phone and the app

Still stuck? Email support@usemoticar.com with your phone model and car details.

The app isn't recording my trips

Check that:

  • motiBuddie is firmly plugged in and LEDs are active
  • Bluetooth is enabled on your phone
  • The app has background activity permissions

On Android: Settings → Apps → Moticar → Battery → "Don't optimise."

Fuel consumption data isn't showing

Not all cars share fuel data through the diagnostic port — it depends on the manufacturer. Moticar will still track trips, mileage, and fault codes. You can log fuel expenses manually.

The app crashes when I open it
  1. Update to the latest version
  2. Close completely and reopen
  3. Restart your phone
  4. Uninstall and reinstall (data is saved in the cloud)

Still happening? Email support@usemoticar.com with your phone model and OS version.

How do I update motiBuddie firmware?

Updates happen automatically through the app. When available, you'll see a notification. Keep motiBuddie plugged in with ignition ON and phone connected to internet. Takes 2–3 minutes.

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