Fiat Chrysler is recalling nearly 8,000 extra Jeeps in the U.S. to patch a security flaw that could allow hackers to remotely control the vehicles.
Security concerns involving hack attacks have increased in recent times, as the fast pace of technology also allows hackers to exploit more vulnerabilities and flaws. The auto industry faces such concerns as well and a new batch of recalls again involves Chrysler Jeeps.
Not too long ago, Fiat Chrysler issued a recall for roughly 1.4 million vehicles using the Uconnect connected car system because a flaw could enable hackers to remotely control a car to perform a number of actions, including turning off the engine. Needless to mention, this would be a severe hazard to the driver's safety, and the automaker decided to pull any cars that could be at risk. The initial count, however, might have missed a few vehicles.
Fiat Chrysler has now announced that it is again voluntarily recalling roughly 7,810 vehicles sold in the U.S. in an effort to issue security patches to cars vulnerable to hacks. The new recall covers models of the 2015 Jeep Renegade SUVs touting 6.5-inch touchscreens. On the bright side, Fiat Chrysler notes that more than half of these vehicles are still at deals and will receive the necessary patches and service before going on sale.
The automaker explains that its new recall campaign does not involve the same radios that were related to "another, similar recall." Nevertheless, the new vehicle recall also aims to "protect connected vehicles from remote manipulation."
"The software manipulation addressed by this recall required unique and extensive technical knowledge, prolonged physical access to a subject vehicle and extended periods of time to write code," the company stated.
Fiat Chrysler car owners, meanwhile, can use their car's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to check online whether their vehicle is included in the recall. If it is, they can either download the software themselves, or have dealership technicians perform the update free of charge. Affected customers will also receive a USB device they can use to upgrade their car's software with additional security features.
Lastly, the carmaker notes that it's not aware of any injuries related to software hacks or of any related complaints, accidents or warranty claims, despite what the media may have tried to imply.
