8 Brands Whose Infotainment Systems Are Harvesting Driver Data Daily

June 25, 2025

Every time you get behind the wheel, your car’s infotainment system does more than play music or give directions. It’s collecting data about you, sometimes a lot more than you realize. From your location to your driving habits, these systems quietly gather information daily. This matters because your personal data can be shared, sold, or even hacked. And most drivers have no idea how much is being collected or what’s being done with it. If you care about your privacy, it’s important to know which brands are most active in harvesting driver data daily.

Here are eight car brands whose infotainment systems are collecting driver data every day, what they’re collecting, and what you can do about it.

1. Tesla

Tesla’s infotainment system is one of the most advanced on the market, but it’s also one of the most data-hungry. Every time you drive, Tesla collects information about your location, speed, navigation history, and even how you use the touchscreen. The company uses this data to improve features and develop new ones, but it also stores detailed records of your driving behavior. Tesla’s privacy policy states that it may share data with third parties for research or legal reasons. If you want to limit what Tesla collects, you can adjust some privacy settings, but you can’t turn off data collection completely.

2. General Motors (Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, Buick)

General Motors brands like Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, and Buick use infotainment systems that collect a wide range of data. This includes your location, call logs, contacts, and even text messages if you sync your phone. GM says it uses this data to provide better services and safety features, but it also shares information with insurance companies and marketers. You can opt out of some data sharing, but not all. If you use OnStar, even more data is collected, including crash data and vehicle diagnostics. Always review the privacy settings in your GM vehicle and consider what you connect to the system.

3. Ford

Ford’s SYNC infotainment system collects data on your driving habits, location, and how you interact with the system. If you use FordPass, the company can track your vehicle’s location in real time. Ford uses this data to improve its products and offer personalized services, but it also shares information with business partners. You can limit some data collection by not using certain features, but basic data collection happens as long as the system is active. Ford’s privacy policy is clear about what’s collected, so it’s worth reading if you drive a Ford.

4. Toyota

Toyota’s Entune system collects data about your location, driving patterns, and app usage. If you use connected services, Toyota can access even more information, including voice commands and search history. The company says it uses this data to enhance safety and convenience, but it also shares information with affiliates and service providers. You can review and adjust some privacy settings, but not all data collection can be stopped. If you’re concerned about privacy, be careful about which apps you use and what information you share with the system.

5. BMW

BMW’s iDrive system is known for its high-tech features but also collects a lot of data. If you use certain features, this includes your location, driving style, and even biometric data. BMW uses this information to offer personalized services and improve vehicle performance. The company shares data with partners for research and marketing. You can manage some privacy settings through the BMW ConnectedDrive portal, but some data collection is automatic. If you want to limit what’s shared, review your settings regularly.

6. Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment system collects data on your location, voice commands, and how you use the system. The company uses this data to improve its products and offer personalized experiences. Mercedes-Benz shares information with service providers and business partners. You can adjust some privacy settings, but the system still collects basic data for safety and diagnostics. If you’re worried about privacy, limit the use of connected features and review the privacy policy.

7. Volkswagen

Volkswagen’s Car-Net system collects data about your location, driving habits, and vehicle diagnostics. The company uses this information to provide services and improve safety features. Volkswagen shares data with affiliates and third-party service providers. You can manage some privacy settings through the Car-Net app, but not all data collection can be turned off. If you want to protect your privacy, be selective about which features you use and what information you provide.

8. Hyundai

Hyundai’s Blue Link system collects data on your location, driving behavior, and how you use the infotainment system. The company uses this data to offer connected services and improve vehicle performance. Hyundai shares information with business partners and service providers. You can adjust some privacy settings, but basic data collection is required for many features. If you’re concerned about privacy, review the settings and limit the use of connected services.

Protecting Your Privacy on the Road

Infotainment systems make driving easier and more enjoyable, but they also collect a lot of personal data. Most brands give you some control over what’s collected, but you can’t stop it completely. The best way to protect your privacy is to review your car’s privacy settings, limit what you connect, and stay informed about how your data is used. As cars get smarter, it’s up to you to decide how much information you’re willing to share.

How do you feel about your car collecting data every day? Have you changed any settings or limited what you share? Share your thoughts in the comments.

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