So Toyota is testing subscription-based remote start from your keyfob. They want $80/year, but an aftermarket "alarm and immobilizer bypass module" can listen for the key's message, and then transmit the same "missing" remote start messages on the CAN bus to remote start your car. Cost wise, you're in the black by the time your car note is up, without the hassle of a subscription. If you have pushbutton start, you can also add remote start to a car that didn't come with the option enabled. If people knew the option existed, of course.
Today, those messages are not really encrypted or obfuscated (much) so it's reasonably easy to extend or recover lost functionality. Going forward it will be a cat and mouse game as manufacturers lock things down much more in the name of 'security.' If it gets too bad, and cars can't be repaired for reasonable amount of money, those brands will see their resale values plummet and the manufacturer reputation tank with it. People may not know or care about car tech, but they are very sensitive to repair costs.
Toyota is testing the waters, and the blowback has been pretty swift and harsh. They thought $8/mo. or $80/year was within peoples' comfort zone. People expect their car to keep doing the things they did when the bought them, and consider something broken if it doesn't. It's going to be interesting to see how this plays out.
BMW got a lot of crap too when they decided that Apple CarPlay integration was a subscription feature too, and they reversed course.
The reality is supporting the "right to repair" laws are important. Very important.
Today, those messages are not really encrypted or obfuscated (much) so it's reasonably easy to extend or recover lost functionality. Going forward it will be a cat and mouse game as manufacturers lock things down much more in the name of 'security.' If it gets too bad, and cars can't be repaired for reasonable amount of money, those brands will see their resale values plummet and the manufacturer reputation tank with it. People may not know or care about car tech, but they are very sensitive to repair costs.
Toyota is testing the waters, and the blowback has been pretty swift and harsh. They thought $8/mo. or $80/year was within peoples' comfort zone. People expect their car to keep doing the things they did when the bought them, and consider something broken if it doesn't. It's going to be interesting to see how this plays out.
BMW got a lot of crap too when they decided that Apple CarPlay integration was a subscription feature too, and they reversed course.
The reality is supporting the "right to repair" laws are important. Very important.
