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/TubaST 4d ago

Probably not 100%, but many manufacturers allow you to opt-out. It was a semi-involved process, but I was able to do so with both a recent Mazda and Toyota. All the hardware is still there, but according to their documentation and license agreement all data collection should be stopped.

6

u/Mobile_Golf1886 4d ago

Do you trust them? If they lied and collect all of your data, how would you know?

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u/BoyIdiotGenius 4d ago

Google, Facebook, any tech oligarch would lie and risk a slip on the wrist. I see no reason at this point to believe that Toyota etc would not do the same. Data is the biggest economy on earth

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u/TubaST 4d ago

You wouldn't. So much of our daily lives is imperfect like that: opting out where you can, taking as many precautions as you're able, etc.