Removing the modem and GPS from my 2024 RAV4 hybrid

Overall reaction

• Many commenters praise the write-up and want similar guides for other models (Toyotas, Subarus, Kias, Rivians, Teslas, etc.).
• Others think the effort is “foil-hat” territory and prefer to accept telemetry for convenience (navigation, OTA updates, SOS, remote climate, etc.).

Privacy, telemetry, and data use

• Strong concern that modern cars resemble “smart TVs”: high purchase price plus ongoing monetization via behavioral data.
• Several point to existing evidence of automakers sharing driving data with insurers; some note specific opt‑in programs and dealer pressure to enroll buyers in apps.
• Others argue EU/UK privacy law (GDPR, eCall rules) should prevent pervasive tracking without explicit consent, but multiple automotive/EE commenters strongly dispute that in practice and claim “every car with GPS+cell reports telemetry.”
• Some see this as a systemic problem only solvable by regulation; others advocate individual resistance (older cars, cash, dumbphones, avoiding apps).

Technical methods and risks

• Approaches discussed:
  • Physically removing or bypassing the telematics module (DCM) or its fuse.
  • Disconnecting or terminating antennas, or adding dummy loads / resistors.
  • Using CAN tools to observe/inject traffic; some note CAN encryption and bus segmentation.
• Caveats:
  • Telematics units may have internal batteries, still log data, and affect other functions (e.g., in‑car mic, SOS, eCall).
  • Some fear future certificate‑based security schemes could eventually lock out cars that don’t phone home.
  • Modifications might create insurance or inspection issues in some jurisdictions.

Bluetooth, CarPlay/Android Auto, and data paths

• A key disputed claim: that, even with the modem removed, a Bluetooth‑paired phone can provide the car an internet connection and restore telemetry.
• Thread notes:
  • Bluetooth PAN/tethering exists; some cars and head units use it or create Wi‑Fi via CarPlay/Android Auto.
  • On many phones, tethering must be explicitly enabled; some report Kias/Toyotas auto‑using phone data, others are skeptical and call for packet captures.
• Consensus: wired CarPlay/Android Auto avoids using the phone as a data pipe for the car, but Apple/Google may still collect vehicle telemetry themselves.

Broader attitudes and alternatives

• Some argue partial defenses (removing modem, using older cars, GrapheneOS, cash) are still valuable even if other tracking persists.
• Others emphasize the futility of full anonymity given telecoms, payment data, cameras, and upcoming mandates (backup cameras, AEB, eCall).
• There is recurring desire for “dumb,” modular, or open‑source cars, but skepticism that such products are commercially viable.