Unlocking Car Upgrades - Over-the-Air Updates Explained

Published Date: 24th Aug 2023

Over-the-air (OTA) updates are changing how we keep our cars up-to-date.

Image of a Security Key In the past, car owners were required to visit a dealership for software updates. However, with OTA updates, the process has become more convenient. Now, car owners can download and install new software directly into their car's computer system via the Internet.

This development is especially advantageous for prospective buyers and customers of UK Car Discount, as it allows them to effortlessly maintain up-to-date software without the need to visit a dealership. OTA updates serve multiple purposes, including bug fixes, performance enhancements, and new features, while also addressing security vulnerabilities to ensure your vehicle's safety.

If you are contemplating the purchase of a new car, inquire or research online to determine if the vehicle supports OTA updates. This highly valuable feature guarantees a smooth-running experience for your car in the future.

Convenience: You can update your car's software from the comfort of your home without taking it to the dealership.
Cost savings: OTA updates are typically free to save money on repair and maintenance costs.
Peace of mind: Knowing that your car's software is up-to-date can give you peace of mind, knowing that your vehicle is as safe and secure as possible.

How do OTA updates work?

OTA updates work by sending new software to your car over the Internet. The update is downloaded to your car's computer system and then installed.

Software over-the-air (SOTA) updates: These updates are for software that controls the infotainment system, such as the radio, navigation, and entertainment features.
Firmware over-the-air (FOTA) updates: These updates are for software that controls the car's vital systems, such as the engine, brakes, and airbags.

SOTA updates are typically less complex than FOTA updates and can be downloaded and installed more quickly. On the other hand, FOTA updates can be more difficult and may require the car to be switched off while the update is being installed.

Here is how OTA updates are downloaded and installed:

The car's computer system checks for updates over the Internet.
If an update is available, the vehicle downloads it to its memory.
The car installs the update when it is convenient, such as when it is parked and turned off.

The car will typically notify you when an update is available. You will then choose to install the update immediately or later.

It is important to keep your car's software up-to-date to ensure that it is running smoothly and safely. OTA updates are a convenient and easy way to do this.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind about OTA updates:

The frequency of OTA updates will vary depending on the car manufacturer and model.
Some car manufacturers may require you to opt in to receive OTA updates.
You may need battery power or a cellular data connection to download and install OTA updates.

Overall, OTA updates are a valuable tool that will help you keep your car running smoothly and safely. If your vehicle is capable of receiving OTA updates, be sure to take advantage of this feature.

Benefits of OTA updates

OTA updates offer several benefits, including:

Improved car performance: OTA updates can improve the performance of your car by fixing bugs and adding new features. For example, an OTA update could improve your car's fuel efficiency or make its infotainment system more responsive.
Fixed bugs and security vulnerabilities: Over-the-air (OTA) updates play a crucial role in rectifying software bugs and fortifying security vulnerabilities within your car's software. These updates serve as a powerful safeguard against potential cyber threats and hackers, ensuring the safety and security of your vehicle.
Added new features: Over-the-air (OTA) updates bring a host of exciting enhancements to your car, ranging from fresh navigation maps to upgraded driver assistance systems. These updates augment the convenience and delight of your driving experience, elevating it to new levels of sophistication and enjoyment.
Reduced need for recalls: OTA updates can help reduce recalls by fixing problems with a car's software before they become serious. This can save you time and money; you won't have to take your vehicle to the dealership for a recall.
Saved time and money: Over-the-air (OTA) updates offer the convenience of updating your car's software from the comfort of your home, saving you time and money—no need to take your vehicle to the dealership or bear the burden of labour costs. Stay in control and enjoy seamless software updates effortlessly.

Overall, OTA updates offer several benefits that will help you keep your car running smoothly and safely. If your vehicle can receive OTA updates, take advantage of this feature.

Security of OTA updates

OTA updates are generally secure. However, there may be some potential security risks associated with them, such as:

Data hacking: If the encryption used in OTA updates is weak, there is a potential vulnerability for hacking. Hackers could exploit this weakness to gain unauthorised access to your car's data, including sensitive personal and driving data. It is crucial to ensure robust encryption to safeguard against such threats and maintain the security of your vehicle's information.
Firmware tampering: Hackers can potentially tamper with OTA updates, allowing them to install malicious software on your car. This risks damaging your vehicle and jeopardises your data's security and privacy.
Privacy concerns: OTA updates can collect data about your car's use, such as your driving habits and location. Car manufacturers or third-party companies could use this data to track your movements or target you with advertising.

However, several measures can be taken to secure OTA updates, such as:

Encryption: OTA updates can be encrypted to protect them from data hacking.
Digital signatures: OTA updates can be digitally signed to verify their authenticity.
Vulnerability testing: OTA updates can be tested for vulnerabilities before release.
Security updates: Car manufacturers can release updates to patch vulnerabilities in OTA updates.
User education: Car owners should be educated about the possible security risks associated with OTA updates and how to protect themselves.

EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) will protect your privacy by requiring car manufacturers to obtain your consent before collecting and using data about your car.

Overall, OTA updates are generally secure. However, there may be some potential security risks associated with them. By securing OTA updates, car manufacturers and owners can help protect their cars and data.

Summary

Over-the-air (OTA) updates are important to keeping your car safe and up-to-date. They are secure and reliable, saving you time and money.

Here are some of the benefits of OTA updates:

Improved safety: OTA updates can fix bugs and security vulnerabilities in your car's software, which can help to keep your car safe from hackers and other cyber threats.
Added features: OTA updates can enhance your car with new features like updated navigation maps and improved driver assistance systems. This can significantly amplify the convenience and enjoyment of your driving experience.
Reduced need for recalls: OTA updates can help reduce recalls by fixing problems with a car's software before they become serious. This can save you time and money; you won't have to take your vehicle to the dealership for a recall.
Saved time and money: OTA updates can save you time and money by allowing you to update your car's software from the comfort of your home. You don't have to take your vehicle to the dealership, and you don't have to pay for labour costs.

If you are a new car buyer, Check with the manufacturer or ask us if the car you want can receive OTA updates. This valuable feature can help you keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely for years.

Here are some additional tips for our new car buyers:

Read the car's owner's manual: The owner's manual will tell you how to update your car's software and what to do if you have any problems.
Only install OTA updates from trusted sources: Only install OTA updates from the car manufacturer or a trusted third-party source.
Keep your car's software up-to-date: Car manufacturers release OTA updates to fix bugs and add new features. It is important to keep your car's software up-to-date to ensure it is safe and secure.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your new car safe and up-to-date.

New Car Deals Discounts Offers Prices from Uk Car Discount

Discover your perfect car with the guidance of our team of expert sales professionals. From start to finish, we'll work with you to find the ideal vehicle to match your needs. Contact UK Car Discount today and explore our wide selection of New Cars at Amazing Discounts.

Call us today at 0161 946 3500 to discuss how we can guide you with your Next New Car.