I recently found out that newer Toyotas collect data about your driving habits and share it with insurance companies. This could lead to higher or lower insurance rates. There’s been a lot of controversy with GM on this issue, and now Toyota seems to be doing the same. If you’re uncomfortable with this, you can opt out through their app.
This should be opt-in, not opt-out. It’s sneaky to make people agree by default.
Darwin said:
This should be opt-in, not opt-out. It’s sneaky to make people agree by default.
It’s mentioned in the terms and conditions of the Toyota app. It also explains how to opt out, but most people don’t bother reading the agreements.
@Barrett
If I never download the app, am I automatically opted out?
Gracen said:
@Barrett
If I never download the app, am I automatically opted out?
Not necessarily. GM and Tesla collect data directly from the car and send it to Lexis Nexis, which shares it with insurance companies. The data collection doesn’t depend on having the app; it’s transmitted through the car’s system. The only way to stop this is by permanently disabling the car’s modem.
@Slate
This makes me glad I drive an older car.
@Slate
It’s less about sharing and more about selling the data to insurance companies.
@Slate
Google Maps also collects this kind of data, which might be why Toyota initially avoided adding Android Auto support.
@Slate
You can go to Lexis Nexis and request to opt out of their data collection.
Gracen said:
@Barrett
If I never download the app, am I automatically opted out?
Wait, which app are we talking about?
Gracen said:
@Barrett
If I never download the app, am I automatically opted out?
Wait, which app are we talking about?
The Toyota Connected Services app. Most people use it to remotely start their car (if equipped). It also notifies you about maintenance and recalls. Dealers are encouraged to sign people up for it, and in some cases, sales staff might lose commission if they don’t.
@Cass
I bought a used Lexus and couldn’t get the app to work. It seems tied to the previous owner, and honestly, I don’t plan to use it now. These apps feel like more hassle than they’re worth. I just installed a unit for Android Auto instead.
@Tory
Most people let the app’s trial period lapse. If I had a Toyota, I’d probably do the same. Dealers can remove the previous owner’s data, but it seems like they rarely bother.
@Cass
People aren’t forced to sign up. They can opt out if they want to. It’s just that many skip the step entirely and don’t realize they’ve been signed up.
ToyotaTim3 said:
@Cass
People aren’t forced to sign up. They can opt out if they want to. It’s just that many skip the step entirely and don’t realize they’ve been signed up.
You’re right. Customers are welcome to opt out if they prefer. I’ve helped a few people decline the services during setup.
Gracen said:
@Barrett
If I never download the app, am I automatically opted out?
You’re opting in by agreeing to the terms of service. You can opt out afterward if you prefer.
@Barrett
A lot of people just click through and unknowingly opt in. Dealers also rush through setup and click accept on everything, claiming it helps their commission.
Ronald said:
@Barrett
A lot of people just click through and unknowingly opt in. Dealers also rush through setup and click accept on everything, claiming it helps their commission.
My dealer activated several services before I even picked up the car. When I reported it, Toyota didn’t seem to care. It feels like they enable this behavior.
@Barrett
I had to specifically opt in for data sharing. It wasn’t automatic.
How do you opt out of this?