AI Diagnostic Disclaimer

Last updated: May 18, 2026

Important: Pitts diagnostic reports (whether AI-generated or human-reviewed) are for informational purposes only. They are not a substitute for a physical inspection by a qualified automotive technician. Do not make safety-critical decisions based solely on a Pitts report.

1. Nature of AI Diagnostics

Pitts uses large language model (LLM) technology developed by Anthropic to analyze vehicle symptoms described in text, audio recordings, images, and OBD scanner codes. The AI model generates a diagnostic assessment based on patterns learned from its training data and the information you provide.

AI-generated diagnostics are inherently probabilistic. The model estimates the most likely cause of a symptom, but it cannot physically inspect the vehicle, measure component tolerances, smell fluids, or observe intermittent behavior that may not be captured in the submitted evidence.

2. Human-Mechanic Review

For paid tiers, a Pitts mechanic reviews the AI-generated draft before publishing the final report. The mechanic may confirm, modify, or reject portions of the AI assessment based on their professional judgment.

Human review improves accuracy but does not eliminate all risk of error. The reviewing mechanic does not perform a physical inspection of your vehicle. Their review is based solely on the information and evidence you submitted.

3. Limitations and Known Error Sources

  • Incomplete information: The accuracy of any diagnosis depends on the quality and completeness of the information you provide. Vague symptom descriptions, low-quality audio, or missing OBD data will reduce accuracy.
  • Intermittent faults: Problems that occur only under specific conditions (temperature, load, speed) may not be reproducible in a remote session and could be missed or misattributed.
  • Multiple simultaneous faults: Vehicles with multiple issues may have symptoms that mask or mimic each other. The AI prioritizes the most likely single cause.
  • Unusual or rare conditions: The AI performs better on common failure modes. Rare faults, unusual vehicle configurations, or recent model-year vehicles may not be diagnosed as accurately.
  • Cost estimates: Labor and parts cost ranges are approximations based on typical market rates. Actual costs vary by region, shop, and the specific condition of your vehicle.
  • Parts recommendations: Part listings are suggestions, not authoritative specifications. Verify compatibility with your vehicle's exact year, trim, and engine before purchasing.

4. Safety-Critical Situations

If your vehicle exhibits any of the following conditions, stop driving immediately and seek professional help. Do not wait for a Pitts report:

  • Brake failure or significantly reduced braking performance.
  • Steering loss or abnormal steering behavior.
  • Visible flames, smoke from the engine bay, or burning smells.
  • Fluid leaks that are large or rapidly worsening.
  • Loss of control warning lights (ABS, airbag, traction control) combined with abnormal handling.
  • Unusual sounds or vibrations that significantly affect your ability to control the vehicle.

In an emergency, call your roadside assistance provider or emergency services. Pitts is not an emergency service.

5. No Liability for Repairs

Pitts reports are intended to help you have an informed conversation with your mechanic — not to guide DIY repairs on complex or safety-critical systems. Pitts accepts no liability for:

  • Any repair work performed based on a Pitts report.
  • Vehicle damage, personal injury, or property damage arising from reliance on a report.
  • Incorrect parts purchased based on report recommendations.
  • Delays in professional diagnosis caused by reliance on AI-only results.

6. Audio and Video Analysis

Pitts uses a proprietary audio model trained on vehicle sounds to assist in pre-diagnosing audio evidence. Audio analysis outputs are classified by predicted category (e.g., "engine knock", "brake squeal") and should be treated as a hypothesis to be confirmed by a mechanic, not a definitive finding.

The accuracy of audio analysis depends on recording quality, background noise, and the distinctiveness of the sound. Poor recording conditions significantly reduce reliability.

7. OBD / Scanner Codes

Diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) provide a starting point for diagnosis but do not identify root causes. A code like P0300 (random misfire) could result from dozens of different underlying faults. Pitts uses DTCs as one signal among many. They do not drive the diagnosis alone.

8. Acknowledgment

By submitting a case and receiving a Pitts diagnostic report, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this disclaimer. You agree to use the report as informational guidance only, and to have a qualified mechanic perform a physical inspection before undertaking any repairs on safety-critical systems.

9. Questions

If you have questions about this disclaimer or a specific report, contact us at support@pitts.app.