Smartphones trained us to expect regular software updates, and now cars are following suit. Over-the-air (OTA) vehicle software updates allow automakers to fix bugs, patch security flaws, and add new features without a dealership visit. This is transforming vehicle ownership by turning cars into evolving digital platforms. Over-the-air automotive updates enable manufacturers to repair security flaws, improve performance, and provide new features without a single trip to the service dealership, transforming the way cars continue to evolve after purchase.
But with this convenience comes new vehicle OTA security risks, including potential cyberattacks, privacy concerns, and the potential for updates to create new problems rather than solve existing ones.
The Technology Behind Wireless Vehicle Improvements
OTA vehicle software updates work by sending encrypted software packages via cellular networks or Wi-Fi connections to in-vehicle computer systems. New automotive standards and regulations set mandates for over-the-air software updates as a necessary mitigation measure to secure increasingly connected vehicles from imminent cyberattacks.Â
Key benefits driving OTA adoption across the industry include:
- Automakers like Tesla, Ford, and BMW use OTA updates to fix bugs for infotainment, driver assistance, battery management, and to add new featuresÂ
- OTA updates make trips to service centers unnecessary for most simple repairs and software upgrades
- Enhanced performance and safety upgrades can be transmitted via simple wireless internet connections
The technology relies on secure transmission protocols that encrypt data during transfer, protecting both updated content and vehicle systems from potential interference. Dozens of computer modules in new vehicles could benefit from remote updates, from entertainment systems to critical safety features.
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Security Challenges and Privacy Implications
Vehicle OTA security risks are a gigantic problem because the updates require complete access to the in-vehicle communication networks. The biggest problem with OTA updates is security vulnerabilities while exchanging data, which requires multi-layered security solutions to protect vehicle systems.
Over-the-air automotive updates are vulnerable to a host of security risks like spoofing, tampering, repudiation, privilege escalation, and information disclosure when left unprotected. The sheer amount of connectivity through cellular networks creates an enormous set of new security and privacy challenges for connected vehicles that legacy automotive ownership models did not have.
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Industry Leaders Setting OTA Standards
Tesla led the mass acceptance of OTA vehicle software updates, and the manufacturer has demonstrated how wireless upgrades can improve user experience and safety, and set a higher bar. Tesla’s over-the-air software updates are improving user experience and safety and challenging the rest of the automotive industry to do better.
Ford received the prize for most sophisticated OTA upgrade capability in 2024, surpassing Tesla’s head start in this space. BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and General Motors are some of the predominant manufacturers that have rolled out their OTA programs, differing by capability and frequency.
Navigating the Future of Connected Vehicle Ownership
OTA vehicle software updates are the normal transformation of car ownership, whereby the car becomes a living platform instead of a static product. Knowing both the benefits and motor vehicle OTA security risks, the owners can make the right updates and management decisions, as well as gain the full benefit of connected car technology.
Keep your update policy and security on your vehicle uncompromising without losing effective safety and performance updates. Ready to embrace OTA updates with safety? Research your vehicle manufacturer’s update policy and configure notification settings to stay in control of when and how to apply updates.
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