You probably know your phone, computer and other devices are constantly collecting your data. Did you know your vehicle does this, too?
Most newer model vehicles collect data and send it wirelessly to the vehicle manufacturer. Your vehicle gathers information on:
- how you drive, including things like steering, acceleration and braking when it needs repair and maintenance and what it needs done
- your GPS location
- vehicle health, including fuel use, emissions and engine hours
- and more.
Why You Should Care
For years, members of the auto care industry have been able to access customers’ onboard computer to get data to help with maintenance and repair. However, because of advanced technologies, vehicle data is now transmitted wirelessly and sent directly only to vehicle manufacturers, which denies technicians the ability to do their jobs.
For vehicle manufacturers, they’re the only ones who have direct access to and control of your car data. This means they could control who gets the data.
For vehicle owners, this means greater inconvenience, greater costs and fewer maintenance and repair options.
Who Should Have Direct Access And Control?
Regardless of what they know or expect about vehicle data, the vast majority of consumers believe vehicle owners should have direct access to their vehicle’s data and control over who has access to this data.
The Independent Auto Care Industry’s Position On Vehicle Data
Auto Care Association believes drivers should demand the right to transparency around the data collected from their vehicles, including what was collected, how it was used and with whom it was shared, among other rights. Drivers unwittingly generate new revenue streams for vehicle manufacturers every time they get behind the wheel. Read the full Driver Bill of Rights at YourCarYourData.org.
Demand Direct Access And Control
Visit YourCarYourData.org to sign our petition, and autocare.org/telematics to learn more about the aftermarket’s role in helping increase awareness regarding vehicle data and its impact on consumers.
Courtesy of the Auto Care Association