A pair of hackers have shown just how easy it is to "pwn" modern car infotainment systems connected to cellular networks. Hackers Charlie Miller and Chris Valasek showed a Wired reporter how they were able to almost completely control a Jeep Cherokee, by taking advantage of a vulnerability in Chrysler/Fiat's Uconnect infotainment and in-car technology system. UConnect uses Sprint's cellular network.

As the two hackers remotely toyed with the air-conditioning, radio, and windshield wipers, I mentally congratulated myself on my courage under pressure. That’s when they cut the transmission.

Immediately my accelerator stopped working. As I frantically pressed the pedal and watched the RPMs climb, the Jeep lost half its speed, then slowed to a crawl. This occurred just as I reached a long overpass, with no shoulder to offer an escape. The experiment had ceased to be fun.


http://www.dslreports.com/shownews/Hackers-Again-Show-CellularConnected-Cars-Can-Be-Easily-Hacked-134547


My thought: so after it crashes/crushed by the following semi on the New Jersey Turnpike, will there be any "evidence" left to prove that the vehicle was hacked. And just like the Takata Airbags and the GM ignition switch...years and scars and lives later...It's the Bottom Line and Cheaper in the long run to Keep it Quiet.

The WaPost piece that jon_h posted is worth the read.

In particular to Art's comment is the graphic showing the number of ECUs modern cars -- up to 56 in a Ford. And the reluctance of Auto manufactures to let anyone see their software code - citing IP rights.

riverbend: a RWD volvo may help some, but not much when the 6000lb Cadillac Escalade you are driving next to at 70MPH on the NJTPike at 5PM suddenly "decides" that it wants to be in your lane. Jack-knife City Carnage.

well seems that front page article in the WashPost yesterday got some response

Fiat Chrysler annc recall of 1.4M vehicles for "Hacking Defense"

True, but I would worry more about the semi next to you that blows a tire on your side. You would be surprised how quickly they can be in your seat.

Greg

That's nothing compared to the obvious potential - hack into Onstar and tell it that all the vehicles are stolen. 20 million cars slowing down and coming to a stop, all at the same time.

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My back feels better when I sit in a Volvo seat

CB, the fear, uncertainty, and doubt this causes is exactly what is enabling our manufacturer's lawyers to be successful in arguing DMCA challenge rejections. We will no longer own our machines and not be free to fix them ourselves.

https://www.techdirt.com/articles/20150421/23581430744/gm-says-that-while-you-may-own-your-car-it-owns-software-it-thanks-to-copyright.shtml

"Hacks on the highway - Automakers rush to add wireless features, leaving our cars open to hackers"

http://www.washingtonpost.com/sf/business/2015/07/22/hacks-on-the-highway/
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240 drivers / parts cars - JH, Ohio