Automakers disable telematics over right-to-repair issues

Jan. 26, 2022

Kia is the second manufacturer to turn off their proprietary telematics system on vehicles sold in Massachusetts to comply with the state's Right to Repair law.

Kayla Nadler

Nilsbogdanovs Icu B09io J0 Unsplash 61f07b123a490

Kia is now the second automaker to disable their wireless telematics system, Kia Connect, on its model year 2022 and newer vehicles sold in Massachusetts to comply with the state's right-to-repair law.

The action stems from the legal challenge to Massachusetts' expanded right-to-repair law.

When the Massachusetts right-to-repair law was voted in favor of in November 2020, any OEM that sold a vehicle in the state would require a standardized, open access platform. This has since become effective starting with 2022 model year vehicles.

Kia is following Subaru's course of action as they did the same thing in November 2021. Subaru disabled their telematics system, Starlink, on all vehicles in Massachusetts.

According to a press release from Kia, their wireless feature, Kia Connect, "may currently not be available for model year 2022 and newer vehicles sold or purchased in Massachusetts”.

About the Author

Kayla Nadler | Associate Editor | Vehicle Repair Group

Kayla (Oschmann) Nadler was previously an associate editor for the Vehicle Repair Group.

With an education in journalism and public relations, Nadler contributed to Professional Tool & Equipment News (PTEN) and Professional Distributor magazines, as well as VehicleServicePros.com.