Fiat Chrysler recalls 1.4M vehicles to prevent hacking

He noted that Internet-accessible cars have only been around for a few years, limiting the number of cars and trucks that could be affected.

Fiat Chrysler is getting ahead of regulation by updating 1.4 million vehicles in order to audit and update their firmware.

The company said that it is in unaware of any injuries related to what it calls “the software exploitation”.

On top of the recall, Fiat Chrysler has also applied network-level security measures to prevent this type of remote manipulation going forward.

The hackers were able to use the cellular connection to the Jeep’s entertainment system, or head unit, to gain access to other systems; the head unit is commonly connected to various electronic control units (ECUs) located throughout a modern vehicle.

Fiat Chrysler has created a lookup tool for owners to check whether their vehicles are covered by the recall, which can be found here. “Of course, sometimes there’s waiting until we get to them, but it’s a very easy process”.

The recall includes Dodge Rams, Dodge Chargers, and Jeep Cherokees manufactured between 2013 and 2015 that come equipped with 8.4-inch infotainment system touchscreens, the company said.

The interior of a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

“Today’s recall announcement essentially formalizes FCA’s campaign to address the vulnerability exposed earlier this week”. “It sets an important precedent for how NHTSA and the industry will respond to cybersecurity vulnerabilities”, the agency said in a statement. The automaker says the hackers had long periods of direct exposure to a Jeep Cherokee, and writing the hacking code was a time consuming job.

The recall covers nearly a million more models than those initially identified as needing a software patch.

As alarming as WIRED online report might have been, Edmunds.com consumer advice editor Ron Montoya took a measure approach when sharing reaction to Fiat Chrysler’s moves. Customers participating in the recall will receive a USB flash drive, which they can insert into their cars and upgrade their vehicles’ software. Ed Markey told CBS News that motorists should anticipate that hackers will target vehicles. They have been in contact with the hackers ahead of the release of the article and prepared a software fix.