You probably think you own your car. You paid for it, you drive it, and you keep it running. But when it comes to your car’s software, things aren’t so simple. Modern vehicles are powered by millions of lines of code, which automakers and software companies tightly control and manage. This matters because software now controls everything from your brakes to your radio. If you don’t control the software, you don’t really control your car. Here’s why this should matter to you, and what you can actually do about it.
1. You Don’t Own the Software in Your Car
When you buy a car, you own the physical parts. But the software? That’s usually licensed, not sold. Automakers and software vendors keep the rights to the code that runs your car. This means you’re just borrowing the software, even though you paid for the car. If you attempt to modify or copy the software, you may be in violation of the law. This is because of copyright rules and licensing agreements. So, even if you want to fix or upgrade your car’s software, you might not be allowed to.
2. Automakers Can Limit What You Do With Your Car
Because you don’t own the software, automakers can control what you can and can’t do. Want to install custom apps or change how your car’s features work? You might be blocked. Some companies even lock features behind paywalls or subscriptions. For example, BMW once tried to charge a monthly fee for heated seats that were already installed in the car. If the company decides to remove a feature or stop supporting your car, you have little say in the matter. This can leave you stuck with a car that doesn’t work the way you want.
3. Updates Are Out of Your Hands
Car software needs updates, just like your phone or computer. But you can’t always choose when or how these updates happen. Automakers can push updates over the air, sometimes without your permission. These updates can alter how your car functions, add new features, or even remove existing ones. In some cases, updates have caused problems, like disabling key functions or introducing new bugs. If you don’t like an update, you usually can’t roll it back. You’re at the mercy of the company that controls the code.
4. Repairs and Modifications Are Getting Harder
Remember when you could fix your car in your own garage? That’s getting harder. Modern cars need special tools and software access to diagnose and repair problems. Many automakers restrict access to this software, so only authorized dealers can do certain repairs. This can make repairs more expensive and less convenient. It also limits your choice of mechanics. Some states are fighting back with “right to repair” laws, but progress is slow.
5. Your Data Isn’t Really Yours
Your car collects a lot of data about you—where you drive, how fast you go, and even what music you listen to. This data is valuable, and automakers often keep control of it. They can use it to improve their products, sell you services, or even sell the data to third parties. You might not have much say in how your data is used or shared. In some cases, you can’t even access your own driving data without paying extra. This raises big questions about privacy and control.
6. Security Risks Are Real
If you don’t control your car’s software, you can’t control its security. Hackers have shown they can break into car systems and take control of critical functions. In 2015, researchers remotely hacked a Jeep and took over its steering and brakes, leading to a recall of 1.4 million vehicles. Automakers work to patch these holes, but you have to trust them to do it right. If a company stops supporting your car, you could be left with unpatched security risks.
7. Resale Value Can Suffer
Because software is so tightly controlled, selling your car can get complicated. Some features might be tied to your account and not transfer to the new owner. If the automaker stops supporting your model, updates and features could disappear. This can lower your car’s resale value. Buyers may be wary of older cars that can’t get updates or have missing features. It’s another way that a lack of software control can cost you money.
8. The Fight for Control Is Growing
People are starting to push back. “Right to repair” movements are gaining ground, and some lawmakers want to give car owners more control over their vehicles’ software. But automakers are fighting to keep control, citing safety and intellectual property concerns. The outcome will shape how much control you have over your car in the future. Staying informed and supporting consumer rights can help shift the balance.
Taking Back the Wheel: What You Can Do
You might not own your car’s software, but you’re not powerless. Read your car’s user agreements and know your rights. Support “right to repair” laws in your state. Ask your dealer about software updates and data privacy. If you’re shopping for a new car, ask how software and data are handled. The more you know, the better choices you can make. Control over your car’s software is about more than convenience—it’s about ownership, privacy, and safety.
Have you encountered issues with your car’s software or data? Share your story in the comments.
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