What FA contains
FA, or Fahrzeugauftrag / Vehicle Order, describes the vehicle configuration, including identifiers and equipment codes. It is used when calculating coding data.
FA is not the complete inventory of installed software components. SVT provides that additional information.
Factory FA by VIN
Factory FA in BMW Online Tool requests the factory vehicle order by VIN. It provides a reference for comparing equipment.
Do not assume it includes every later retrofit. Changes made after production need to be considered separately.
FA read from the vehicle
This is the data stored in the vehicle when it is read. It may differ from the factory configuration after previous work. Reading it does not establish that every earlier edit was correct.
Keep separate copies of factory FA and the FA read from the vehicle. Record the source and date so you can identify the intended version.
Comparing the files
- Verify the full VIN.
- Compare vehicle type, production criteria and equipment codes.
- Identify why entries differ: repair, retrofit or an earlier edit.
- Check the intended configuration against the installed ECUs.
- Retain the original files and keep any working version separately.
Which FA to use for NCD
Use the FA describing the intended coding configuration, together with a consistent SVT. For work on the current vehicle state, start with fresh vehicle data.
For example, a retrofit may add a control unit not represented in the original factory configuration. Verify the configuration and ECU inventory first; uploading factory FA does not complete the retrofit.
Do not resolve a VIN mismatch by inserting another vehicle’s identifier. Obtain the correct source data.
Keeping useful records
Use separate folders for factory data, pre-work readings and post-work readings. This is a filing method, not a service filename requirement.
For support, prepare both FA versions, the relevant SVT and a short description of the changes. Keep each file’s source clear.
Requesting and checking FA
Factory FA and vehicle information in the application · Export FA and SVT from E-Sys. Check module availability against your license.
Frequently asked questions
Is factory FA always preferable to current FA?
No. Use the configuration required for the task. Factory FA is a useful reference but may not reflect retrofits.
Can FA replace SVT?
No. FA describes configuration; SVT describes ECUs and software components. An NCD request requires both.
Does requesting FA write it to the vehicle?
No. Obtaining a file and writing vehicle configuration are separate actions.