Many are comparing the 3G sunset
to the shifts in home video we've seen in the last couple of decades. From VHS, to DVD, to streaming, technology improves
and we adapt, but this may be the most disruptive shift in the automotive world. If you need a little support navigating through it or are just curious which drivers got the short end of the stick, read on. If there's only one thing readers glean from this article, let it be this: no practical functions of any car will be affected by the loss of 3G wireless. All of these cars will still be able to drive, brake, and move as normal.
Be prepared
That being said, some manufacturers handled the sunset period better than others. BMW has been contacting drivers by mail and in-app communication since last year. The company made drivers aware and offered a solution for various disruptions.
Alex Knizek of Consumer Reports remarks
, “Shutting down the 3G network to prioritize newer technologies is positive in the long run. But it is disappointing that some automakers have failed to offer a solution to owners of 3G-connected vehicles, leaving them unable to take advantage of proven and valuable safety features, as well as other beneficial connectivity functions.” GM also took the bull by the horns, and many of its brands, including Chevrolet, Buick, and Cadillac, began to initiate wireless updates in the fall of 2021. Drivers were able to accept the update
request up until February 22 of this year. Which brands didn't plan?
Unfortunately, a handful of major automakers fumbled the ball on this:
Honda
Honda took the ahead-in-the-sand approach to 3G’s retirement and continued to install 3G antennas even up to 2022 models of select cars. At this point, updates for Honda and its more expensive brand Acura, require new hardware that owners will pay for it in their own pockets. Only certified Honda dealers can install it.
Toyota, Lexus
Toyota has notched the highest number of affected vehicles, even without including its luxury brand Lexus. While features won't go offline until November, Toyota has not presented owners with a way to transition Toyota Safety Connect, and its swath of functions, to 4G.
Meanwhile, Lexus is slated to lose all connectivity features in 2010-2018 models by Halloween.
Nissan
Nissan did not communicate any options to owners for upgraded hardware. Various 2013-2018 models are affected and the loss of 3G-based features is permanent.
Audi
Audi is throwing around a lot of smoke and mirrors, but there doesn't seem to be a solution to the loss of safety features anywhere in the mix. They are suggesting that owners of select 2014-2016 models purchase the $300 “Mojio,” an aftermarket device that offers subscription-based safety services. The alternative is to bring affected models to an Audi dealer so the disruptive warning messages can be disabled. Don't worry, though—disabling the features will be free.
If you have the option to receive a free or low-cost update from your dealer, take it. Even if you don't use the feature yourself, it will allow for a better resale price if you decide to sell your car down the line.
It can be unsettling to face change, even in switching your car insurance. Here at Jerry
we always have helpful agents ready to chat with you, whether through texting or over a phone call, to answer any questions you have. The average user will save nearly $900 per year! 
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