Automakers are selling your data

Hello! We hope you’ve had a great weekend. Thanks to everyone who listened to our podcast.

On this issue, we’re covering a concerning bit out data, that had us wondering. Cars are becoming more of a data provider, than just a vehicle.

We wonder what could happen in the future. What do you think?

Key Takeaways

Don’t have much time? Here’s the summary of what we’re talking about:

• Major automakers are selling driver data to insurers, impacting rates. There's controversy over driver consent and regulatory scrutiny.

• GM faces fines for selling cars with high emissions, similar to Volkswagen's Dieselgate.

• Diesel SUVs are fuel-efficient and powerful. Our article reviews four top used models.

• Using compounds in car detailing may risk clear coat removal. Learn how to use them safely.

IN THE KNOW

These automakers are spying on you and selling your data

Data has become the most valuable asset for companies. Everyone from telecoms to healthcare providers wants to know what you're doing.

Once they find a source of information that can help them sell more, they're willing to pay big bucks for it. We shouldn't say we were surprised; however, the problem is that we never thought of cars this way. Until now. 

Automakers are selling our data to insurance providers, and many questions arise. The first question you might have is, "Which automakers are they?" 

The answer might shock you (spoiler: they're some big names)

You might wonder, "What data are we talking about?" If you think about it, our cars could provide insurers with tons of information, from driving locations to much more compromising information.

Such data can be critical in determining how much we pay for insurance, which isn't cheap. We've covered how expensive insurance is getting in our previous issues. 

Then, there's the big question. Drivers have said, "Wait, did I sign up for this?"

The answer has many sides arguing, so much so that authorities such as the Federal Trade Commission demand that automakers correct this.

However, the future is still uncertain, and this case is only bound to get more complicated. Check out the link below for more on how automakers use our data. 

GM to pay millions in emissions scandal.

We've all heard of Dieselgate, the Volkswagen emissions scandal that led to the CEO resigning and key personnel getting suspended. It rocked the automotive industry.

The short version is that Volkswagen created a device to modify emissions when tested and fitted in 11 million vehicles worldwide. VW's reputation was tarnished, and it is just recovering. 

So, we wonder why GM didn't get the same treatment. You might be scratching your head, wondering what we're talking about.

It turns out that GM did the same thing but differently. GM sold 6 million cars that emitted more carbon dioxide than permitted. Check out this article on the vehicles involved. 

Last week, GM agreed to pay a hefty fine, which raises the question of how authorities let this happen in the first place. 

BEST AND WORST

What are the best used diesel SUVs?

Diesel SUVs are becoming more common in the US, and for good reason. They provide excellent fuel economy and torquey acceleration. Plus, the noisy engine is long gone.

Thanks to improving technology, modern diesel engines are just as quiet as their gasoline counterparts. 

These traits have made diesel SUVs much more appealing to the buying public. Those who can't afford a new one or don't want to spend so much money are looking for used models.

That's why "what's the best used diesel SUV?" is a common search term. Our article covers four excellent used diesel models that you can buy. Read more about them here.

TIPS AND KNOW-HOW

 Does compound remove clear coat?

You're looking at your car's paint and notice a scratch. Working on your car's paint is one of the easiest and most entertaining projects to undertake by yourself.

However, you may have several questions, one of which is: Which material should you use? 

Compounds are common when detailing a car. They work as an abrasive, which leads to the question: Does compound remove clear coat?

Our article covers all the essential questions about using compound on your car. Read more to learn how to care for your paint!

NEWSBITES

Every week, we scour the web for the most essential news. Here’s what you need to know this week:

• The big three are facing a tough second half when it comes to sales

• If you sell cars for a living, should you consider influencers?

• Are EVs really cheaper in the long run?

• As always, listen to our podcast here