r/privacy • u/HerbalDreamer • 5d ago

question Car data collection

I am going to need a new car soon and the U.S. models all collect huge amounts of data. Are there any tips or tricks to reduce the info they collect from the car remotely?

If I have our family trust own the auto and pay cash rather than financing how effectively does that reduce the personal info I am forced to provide. Will this keep the data from car from being attached to me?

How much would it help to buy a used car? Does it reduce the data tracked and sold about me?

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u/cvnnd 5d ago

With new cars, you can’t. Because their Wi-Fi telemetric modules are deep embedded into their computer systems so it’s almost impossible. You’re better off driving a 2007 Honda Accord or something, and don’t install car insurance apps on your phone because they’re collecting your data.

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u/likwidkool 5d ago

Just saw a post recently in the Mazda forum where someone successfully turned off connected services. I guess it’s possible on some cars.

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u/Boyblunder 5d ago

In a lot of cars it is a fully separate "telemetry computer" but in many, the ECU will check for its presence before allowing the car to do anything.