Setting Up Backup

Protect your data with local and cloud backup options

Beginner 5 min

Prerequisites

  • Some data recorded in the app
In this series (5 parts)

Your vehicle data is valuable. This guide shows you how to protect it with backups.

Backup Options

My Cars offers several backup methods:

MethodSubscriptionFeatures
Local BackupFreeManual backup to device storage
DropboxPROAutomatic cloud sync
Google DrivePRO+Automatic cloud sync
OneDrivePRO+Automatic cloud sync

Local Backup (Free)

Create a backup file on your device:

Local backup screen The backup screen lets you export and import your data

  1. Go to Menu > Backup & Restore
  2. Tap Create Backup
  3. Choose a location to save the file
  4. Tap Save

The backup file contains all your vehicles, refuels, services, bills, and settings.

Restoring from Local Backup

  1. Go to Menu > Backup & Restore
  2. Tap Restore Backup
  3. Select your backup file
  4. Confirm the restore

Warning: Restoring replaces your current data. Create a backup first if you have new data.

Best Practices for Local Backup

  • Create backups regularly (weekly or monthly)
  • Copy backup files to another device or cloud storage
  • Keep multiple backup versions
  • Test restoring occasionally

Cloud Backup (PRO/PRO+)

Cloud backup syncs automatically, keeping your data safe across devices.

Setting Up Cloud Backup

  1. Go to Menu > Backup & Restore
  2. Tap Cloud Backup
  3. Choose your provider:
    • Dropbox (PRO and PRO+)
    • Google Drive (PRO+ only)
    • OneDrive (PRO+ only)
  4. Sign in to your cloud account
  5. Grant My Cars permission to access the folder

Cloud Backup Features

  • Automatic Backup - Syncs after each change
  • Restore on New Device - Sign in and restore instantly
  • No File Management - Everything happens automatically
  • Encrypted - Your data is secure

Switching Cloud Providers

To change providers:

  1. Go to cloud backup settings
  2. Tap Change Provider
  3. Select your new provider
  4. Sign in and authorize

Your data transfers to the new provider automatically.

Restoring on a New Phone

When you get a new phone:

  1. Install My Cars
  2. On the Welcome screen, tap Restore Data
  3. Choose Cloud or Local File
  4. Sign in (for cloud) or select your backup file
  5. Wait for the restore to complete

All your vehicles, history, and settings are restored.

Troubleshooting

Backup fails:

  • Check your internet connection
  • Ensure you have cloud storage space
  • Try signing out and back in

Can’t find backup file:

  • Check the default Downloads folder
  • Search for files with “.mcb” extension
  • Ensure you have storage permissions granted

Congratulations!

You’ve completed the Getting Started series. You now know how to:

  • Add and manage vehicles
  • Track refuels accurately
  • Read your statistics
  • Protect your data with backups

Explore the Feature Guides to learn more about specific capabilities.

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