Method and apparatus for using components of a vehicle. The apparatus includes a computing device and a memory for instructions and an interface for components of the vehicle. The computing device is designed to control the components of the vehicle when the instructions are executed by the computing device. A first component is required for an automated driving mode of the vehicle and a second component are designed in a redundant manner with respect to one another. At least one load of the second component for an automated driving mode is either switched on or at least partially switched off depending on a condition. The condition characterizes the need for redundant operation of the first component and of the second component.