On-board computer diagnostics and viruses

["Greg McNair" <gmcnair@domain.elided>]

<<<In a message dated 10/2/2002 9:55:18 AM Pacific Daylight Time,
owner-alfa-digest@domain.elided writes:


> Sure glad cars don't get viruses, yet anyway. I wonder if technology
> will "let" cars communicate on wireless networks and become vulnerable
> to hacking and viruses.>>>

I was speaking with my mechanic yesterday, who has moved from Alfas to BMW's
(gotta follow the money flow) and he was telling me of the new 745 series that
is so advanced now that you can call a tech line from the car phone (similar
service to On Star), tell them you aren't happy with the shift points, and
WHILE you are on the phone they can modify the programming.  Kind of scary to
realize that they have enough control over our cars now to be able to shut it
off if wanted (in case of theft), change operating parameters, and worst of
all, track your location to within a few meters.  Unfortunately for many car
technicians not employed by dealerships, the future is looking dim for being
able to repair these 2003+ cars.  BMW is striving to get to a point that will
eliminate any repair facility not directly linked to the dealership, and
others are soon to follow if they get their way.  I suppose in 10 years when
the price of a 100k BMW is down to an affordable $8000, then I won't be able
to afford carrying it to the dealer for $80/hr service work!

As for viruses, computer equipped cars have had them for years.  They're
called "Check Engine" lights, set to detonate at certain times, be it mileage
or whatever trips the sensor.

Greg
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