People are only just realising what over-the-air updates do for their cars

Drivers have been left stunned as they realise how over-the-air updates affect their car.

As modern car tech becomes more advanced, we are increasingly reliant on computers rather than mechanics with spanners and screwdrivers to keep our motors on the road.

1

Most people are aware of the regular updates that happen with our mobile phones – we don’t have to take them into a shop, instead all the work is magically taken care of remotely and then we just get a quick message asking us to press ‘Accept.’

And it seems our cars are heading the same way.

Handily, experts at TopGear.com have put together some useful information explaining how a remote software update affects your car.

What is an ‘over-the-air’ update?

An update to your car’s software uploaded wirelessly via a SIM connection – which means you don’t have to visit and fork out for a technician to manually carry out the work.

Like with your phone, you might be required to confirm an update, though sometimes the car will automatically make the decision as soon as the update is available. 

What kind of updates?

Tesla has lots of experience with making OTA updates. 

For example, at Halloween, every Tesla X driver can download a special feature, so the car plays a ‘spooky’ track, opens its door and flashes its lights, ‘dancing’ in time to the music.

But Tesla is also able to send out more useful updates – like the controversial Full-Self-Driving package, which can be installed after you’ve bought the car.

And, in February this year, Kia and Hyundai released a remote update to four million cars at risk of being targeted by thieves, after a TikTok video showed how specific models could be stolen.

How long do updates take?

How long a OTA update takes depends on the number of updates, or overall size of the data. 

As a convenience, the car will usually initiate updates overnight, but TopGear.com recommends that you never accept an update if you’re on your way out – presumably because of the glitches and gremlins that might occur during or after the download.

How much do remote updates cost?

Updates of features you’ve already paid for – the standard equipment on your car – will generally be free, unless you’ve agreed on a subscription model and it’s coming to an end.

Extra features sent out over-the-air will become more common and could benefit the used market, in particular.

So, if the previous owner didn’t opt for a feature that you’d like to have in your car, you may be able to pay to activate it, as the new owner. 

Tech to stop our cars dating quite so quickly is good news for residual values.