this post was submitted on 04 Nov 2024
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[–] [email protected] 3 points 1 week ago (1 children)

Well, there are some strategies:

  • data collection - remove/disable the antenna/broadcasting chip - in some cars it's as easy as removing a fuse, in others you need to take things apart to remove the TCU or modem
  • subscription-based features - don't buy them and look for hacks to enabled them w/o buying
  • death of sedans - buy sedans

Unfortunately, that's a drop in the bucket since it seems the market in general wants larger cars with more spyware, and aren't pushing back enough on subscription BS.

I'm actively looking for a car, and unfortunately the process is:

  1. find models we want to try out
  2. look up online about how to disable the spyware nonsense
  3. actually go look at cars
  4. repeat from 1 as necessary
  5. play dealership games because the private used market is essentially gone
  6. actually remove spyware

We're on step 3, and I'm not looking forward to step 5. I've actually never purchased from a dealer before, because I've bought everything before now from a private seller. Wish me luck...

[–] [email protected] 2 points 1 week ago (1 children)

Can I suggest auction sites for used cars. Government is always getting rid of old cars.

[–] [email protected] 2 points 1 week ago

I'll have to check those out, I keep forgetting all about them. We don't urgently need a new car, so that's probably a good idea.