The move to faster, more modern internet connectivity has left some older vehicles in the lurch. Here’s our guide to the issue.
You’ve probably heard about 5G’s promise of faster data rates on our digital devices for years. Fantastic. However, cellular companies and the Federal Communications Commission claim that they will have to shut down older 3G networks to get there. The issue: Every 3G device, including the 3G modems in potentially millions of cars sold over the last decade, will be cut off—dead, bricked, and worthless.
We hadn’t been paying attention to this until we heard that AT&T was shutting down its 3G network on February 22. T-Mobile (together with Sprint) will cease operations on March 31. Verizon’s deadline is December 31. Depending on which network they use, all other low-tier mobile operators (such as Cricket) are subject to the same timelines.
Despite submitting a petition with the FCC last August to postpone the “3G sunset,” the widespread availability of 4G LTE service in the past seven years, and the certainty of this day, the world’s manufacturers have continued to install cheaper 3G modems in new automobiles. They’ve had plenty of time to devise solutions for car owners who will see services they enjoy—and in some cases, services that are vital for accident safety—either vanish or demand costly updates.
“We worked with automobile manufacturers for three years to assist them move their connected cars to newer technologies before 3G services ceased,” AT&T stated in a statement to Car and Driver. Was your vehicle’s manufacturer able to make that transition?
The automakers listed below have made public information available (we copied what the automakers published they would cancel word for word, to avoid any confusion between their various brand-specific services and subscriptions). To learn more about refunds, incentives, and available fixes, contact your local dealer or national customer service.
Read More: Car & Driver
