"Saying that you don't care about privacy because you have nothing to hide is equivalent to saying that you don't care about freedom of speech because you have nothing to say" is one of the best quotes I've heard in awhile.
So glad you got info on this. Car dealers are saying they don't know about it and don't know how to disconnect it. I'm terrified not just of data collection, but a hacker or government's ability to disable your vehicle.
Thanks for this. To anyone struggling to find this device in their vehicle, consider using an EMF meter. It should register a stronger signal, the closer you get to the device. Best.
Regarding the 2023 Ranger. I have never found the device itself, but the manual does list the telematics modem fuse location. The first thing I did was when I got the truck was remove the fuse. When I did a connectivity icon on my radio screen was crossed out. I don't know if that stopped all transmissions or not. I never installed Fordpass so I can't speak to anything there either. For what it's worth I have had the truck for 10 months and it does not seem to have harmed anything. Of course, I can't promise the truck isn't transmitting either.
On all the F-series pickups, the module is behind the interior paneling below the rear window. On the left (driver's side in the US) side of the vehicle is the GPS and right side (passenger) is the telematics. I would recommend looking there if you haven't already.
Thanks! And agreed. I think the thing that drives me nuts is that we had no clue what this was or that it existed because who actually reads a vehicle manual?! This is all nonsense in my opinion!
Thank you for this information. I was able to locate mine on a 2023 Ford Transit 350. It’s located under the steering wheel and looks exactly as you described it. Black on one side and silver on the other. The part number and IMEI numbers is on the black side of the unit which in my case was facing downward. It was very easy to disconnect. I hope this comment helps someone else.
Thank you for this. I was contemplating even canceling my order for a 2024 Transit and build out an older van in instead, in my disappointment over tracking, but it's good to know I could have the option of finding the module and unplugging it.
I'm glad it's helpful! The Transit has the unit either in the top of the dash or the driver side of the dash, to the left of the steering wheel, it shouldn't be much more difficult to access. Best of luck with your build!
Thank you so much. Great video. You are not alone with this issue. I wish I could see how you disconnected the power from and how. Keep them videos coming .
Shoot, sorry about that. It’s a tight space, but basically if you pull of the doghouse you will see the black main connector on the bottom, there’s a small tab. Squeeze and gently pull out and it’ll disconnect! Once you find your module, the fight is basically over!If you could disconnect the antennas somehow, and leave it powered there’s a good chance it would simply burn itself up without the resistance from the antennas in place. That was the original plan, but this was much easier! Will do, thanks for the support!! 😊
good on you, thanks for figuring this out! I also have ford pass and was unaware of all the "automatic opt in" features - including the ability of anyone in the car (while running) to sync their phone or even apple watch to your car to then remotely lock/unlock, start and drive it away - that's any mechanic or valet. You have to know that you need to enable valet mode for any of these or else any old person with a phone can sync it to your car while the engine runs and now they have a key! Crazy stuff. Almost couldn't believe it.
I won't buy a new car ever again unless I'm able to disconnect the telematics modem first. The car industry has KILLED my interest in their new products by this alone.
Louis Rossman just dropped a video covering GM’s lucrative sale of driving behaviour data to Insurance companies via data brokers. It’s likely widespread across many manufacturers given the money they stand to make by doing this. It’s also possible the surveillance is illegal, but doesn’t matter to automakers as profits will likely outweigh fines. I have a new car and this has taken all the enjoyment out of it for me. Driving at night or breaking hard are among the things that count negatively to insurance companies. I’m now hyper aware of every time the car incorrectly issues a safety warning like the lane assist thinking I’m driving out of my lane when in fact I’m intentionally giving space to a semi truck or when the emergency breaking system thinks I’m on a collision course with a car parked on the side of the road. It’s the cars poor software’s fault and I’m the one eating it in insurance premium hikes. And since the information is going by a third party, all insurance companies have access to this data. Sigh. I want a dumb car again.
@@dgunearthed7859 All the F-series have it in the same spot. There are two modules back there, telematics on the right (passenger) side and GPS on the left. The research I've done leads me to believe the GPS is receive-only and can be safely ignored (location is only shared through the telematics unit)
I’d like to do that too, but I’m not going threw all that to find it. You’re right tho, privacy is something that’s getting pretty hard to come by these days!
When i made an appointment with the dealership for service, they asked for the mileage. I wasn't near the vehicle, and he said no problem and was able to pull the mileage from the vehicle. I thought that was strange and then started looking into this. Thanks for the info.
Thank you for sharing all of this info. I think Ford (as well as other automakers) need to be transparent with this BS. WHY are they doing this? WHO are they giving the information to? WHAT are they being paid for it? pretty sure they wouldn’t be doing this without some kind of $$ gain! So many questions ….
I have noticed that they give this GPS information to Law Enforcement during chases when they lose a vehicle or will give it to them at their requests to know where you are. Which means now LE doesn't even need to secretly attach their own GPS tracker to you vehicle anymore...they will just run you license plate which will give them the VIN of your car then they contact the dealership/Auto manufacturer who can then give them the location of your vehicle. This is why I really would like to have a way to block this signal and let others know how to also.
Onstar does the same thing even if you dont have the subscription. GM sells that info to a 3rd party. And that 3rd party sells it to insurance companies. Audio, video, hard breaking, hard acceleration, speeding, hard turning, location, trip time, and more. I took out the chip in my car today.
Thank you I ordered a 2024 and was worried about this but wanted sync 4 for other reasons so had to have it. Ill be disabling now that I know its possible and wont mess with other functions.
For Ford Edge users: my 2022 Edge ST was factory equipped with GPS 4G tracker connected to the OBD II port (next to driver's left leg) and also for pass modem - the box, with IMEI stamped on it, was located in the back, next spare whell, under the hard foam moulds surrounding spare wheel. I don't use and I don't want ford pass app so all disconnected and scrapped:)
Couldn't agree more with you, but I believe that this tool is actually designed for fleet management, and it simply is installed in every vehicle. There should be more transparency from their side to the customers and a much easier way to complete disable it on your own wish. The way it is, it makes you see it as a bit "dodgy". Unfortunately, we live in a time when data is the big money earner......
Absolutely, I suspect that it was originally designed just for the fleet management, which I'd say is a pretty nice thing to have as a business! But to see it in the Ford Mustangs and the rest, I have seen too much garbage like this working with tech that they have to make their money back on this somehow, and it's never in the customers' best interest! It really is amazing how much Big Data can earn a company. 😖
It jumped from fleet management, to we can collect data on and/or control every "customer" :) Louis Rossman also has a bit about a patent where they can harass potential 'deadbeats' : th-cam.com/video/oR0PpUYhtcs/w-d-xo.htmlsi=WWgZXXeA3NBFcm6I
After Edward Snowden dropped the reality about all the electronic tracking happening on all levels, it seems to me that a few convenient bells and whistles are marketed to the consumer so they accept and enjoy tracking... meanwhile, the reality is that it's primarily benefiting corporations and governments
The worse thing about the Ford Pass is it tracks vehicle functions. They can then use this data to deny warrant work if they deem YOU are the cause for the warranty repair, is what I have been hearing. Will dig into this more and report back.
Was told that Ford cars record EVERYTHING! From tire angle to g-forces, speed, conversations. Everything! Was told they have the ability to hack a mustang and shut it down while your driving the car.
Thanks, info is helpful. I was looking for error info, why it is the fordpass app did and dealer didn't see or have history of dash errors. when i had truck at dealer for a battery (1 of 2) gone bad - replaced (under warranty). The other part is i was looking for more relevant info on a recall - Ford Diesel RECALL 22E04.
Great video!! I have a 2017 F150 Larriat and am wondering if I have telematics. If I download Ford Pass, it will not allow me to remotely unlock or lock my doors OR pretty much anything remotely. Does this mean I do NOT have telematics? Thanks!!
Thank you! Yep, yours does appear to have Telematics. It doesn't have remote functions, but you may be able to see things like vehicle diagnostics, maybe fuel level, mileage, etc. I'm surprised it doesn't have a lock/unlock function, but it would otherwise still be reporting back to Ford some data!
Glad to know this is behind my seat of my F150 in case i need to disable it....may do that even though i like being able to track my truck incase it's stolen.
@@zikiflx I cannot say why, but disconnecting the fuse in our E-450 did NOT disconnect power. It's easy to verify by signing in to the FordPass app and you can see the vehicle data and location, and then pulling the fuse. Likely, you will still see the data on your vehicle. Once you disconnect the module itself from power (or just disconnect both cellular and the single GPS antenna) you will find that your data is no longer updating in the app.
@@CozyLivingMachine **Hey after doing a little extra research I also found out in my wiring schematics that there is a another GPS unit supposedly located in the front center dash of the 22 F250 and I wonder if you know anything about that one or if that has anything to do with Ford GPS tracking/location!?!
I suspect that being grounded would have no bearing, so much as just blocking the signal with multiple layers of metal that reflects all broadcasted radio waves. However, unplugging is far easier and uses no further materials. 🤘
When it's unplugged how often do you get alerts on the dash saying something is wrong? Can you make the alerts go away? Then if I plug it In for updates will all GPS data be uploaded? I was thinking of just installing a jammer next to the unit.
There was never a single alert or error anywhere, and if it's unplugged the GPS unit cannot aggregate your data and upload it all at once, thankfully! It's possible a jammer may work, but seem that it would create work to be sure that it doesn't cause legal issues by creating interference with other mobile devices being that it's using a GPS signal as well as standard cell frequencies. I would expect that it would also cause more battery drain being that this unit runs 24/7, so a jammer would have to as well. But hey, either method stops data transmission!
I can confirm as a 2019 f150 super crew lariat owner the telematics module is on the rear passenger side behind the back seat as pictured in the video. Mine was assembled in Missouri so I cannot say whether the location would be the same for trucks built outside of the US. I am now unplugged and can confirm that after unplugging it location sharing on the app is no longer available. Thank you :)
Is there a fuse you can pull or wire you can disconnect? I don't want to have some sort of cyber attack disable the vehicle. Might seem paranoid but the way things are going I wouldn't be suprised. Its a 2023 f250
Our unit did not have a fuse that would affect this function for whatever reason, which was very confusing. Until it was unplugged it would still communicate with the main servers and I could lock and unlock and control the vehicle remotely. Even with the fuse pulled. I have another video that shows that.
Rear, driver side compartment area is where I would expect: f01.justanswer.com/hdgene/9adbd90a-72c1-425b-925b-c5e962126608_tmu.pdf f01.justanswer.com/hdgene/6db16ad2-c4bb-479b-8296-3584d9ced2d6_lsp.png
This unit has no Sync functionality because it's a separate Sony head unit, though if it did have Ford Sync this may potentially break that functionality due to disabling the cellular connection. That would be perfect for me, though personal preference!
The core problem lies in the directive from the Federal Government to car manufacturers, mandating the installation of data-collecting and transmitting devices in vehicles. Moreover, they've instructed manufacturers to conceal this from consumers and coerce them into signing agreements allowing the sale of their cars and personal data. Refusal to sign means no car purchase. My Question to Cozy Living Machine is: After deactivating the device, did you encounter any problems with the truck once you unplug the device?
I apprciate the time spemt on that deep dive of the Ford tracking system rabbit hole. Excellent info. 2021 transit 350 cargo van. I found my unit in the dash buried at the top. Clip a couple of wires, done. I wonder if i can sell this thing...... anyone have any ideas?
I cannot explain why, but unfortunately no. The unit still receives network connectivity and power even with that fuse pulled. The easiest way to test is with the FordPass app, noting whether or not the device functions without the fuse in place. The nice thing is that I've not seen a unit that is all too tough to access yet, rather it's the hunt of finding the module that tends to be the most challenging.
@CozyLivingMachine That's unfortunate. In the 2024 Ford Ranger, it is located directly behind the enormous main display screen. I'm not sure how you could sneak in there.
You can look at the Ford site for the fuse diagram or another site like this for your particular vehicle: fuse-box.info/ford/ford-e-series-2021-2022-fuses
I've not seen on the Broncos, though I'm going to assume it'll be in the same general area - somewhere dry, inside the cabin, close enough to the computer but mounted where there is space. I'd bet between the steering wheel and radio, in the dash.
So as a ford tech and I ask you have you connect your vehicle and I may be able to tell you what’s wrong with your vehicle over the phone and may be able to order a part but if not connected you would rather bring your vehicle for a day waiting for me to find out what’s wrong with the vehicle and then order a part ?? And with vehicle these days I can still plug I your vehicle and see a lot of info about your vehicle ?? Also allowed your vehicle to update too over WiFi ??
There isn't a single Ford dealer that will touch these motorhomes within 250 miles around us anyhow, but it's an easy reconnect as needed! Great point!
Okay! This is something I definitely want to do. Do you know if that is a ford f 150 in that photo that someone sent you? I’m trying to figure out where to start looking. Thanks for the video. I’ve been weirded out by this
Sure was! Likely going to be behind the seat back, though I suspect that isn’t too tough to remove, just a few bolts, thankfully! And good for you for caring about your privacy! It’s such a shame that too many people don’t care enough to even begin to learn.
Thanks brother. I’m going to be attacking that tomorrow morning. Thank you for the reply. Hope the rv life is serving y’all well! Wife and I did a year in a 30footer for our honeymoon. Some good times.
You can do the same thing with the fuse, of course, but the actual TCU (black box) is going to take just a bit of fishing around. The likely spots are: 1. Very rear left or right walls of the cargo area 2. Within the dash area 3. Behind the glove compartment 4. Under the seats The device must be kept dry, so you know it's inside the vehicle. You can also rent access to the Motorcraft system very cheap, and learn everything you'd ever need to know. I did a video on that: th-cam.com/video/lpCSI4cVqrM/w-d-xo.html
Good information. I checked on my 2019 F53 chassis and when I enter my VIN, it says that I don't have connectivity on my vehicle. I assume that my chassis didn't get the telemetry module?
I'd have to guess that you don't have it on there, though you can confirm by checking settings in your dash menu as well and looking for "FordPass", or by taking a peek under the dash. I show you how to do that in tomorrow's video!
I got here bc I’m concerned about repo being able to find me with gps locator when I was shopping around for another vehicle, it was brought to my attention that the truck if it was ever stolen, had a tracker to locate it so now that my circumstances have changed and I’m unable to make payments on my vehicle, I was thinking well they could probably find my vehicle using that same type of tracker so I searched my model which is a 2017 Ford fusion and supposedly it does have GPS capacity and I’ve been trying to find how I can remove it if anybody knows anything. I’d appreciate it.
Thanks!! If you happen to disconnect this unit and dig deeper to disconnect the antennas, once you get your rig, I’d love to know why these are so stubborn or if I’m just an idiot. 😂 unplugging things USUALLY isn’t so tough!
@@georges4562 Thanks! And there are a few things I've noticed: 1. I need a table saw because there are very small gaps that I'm not a huge fan of, though these will be covered in due time. We're just getting used to everything and how we use it. 2. There's a lot more convenient storage. 3. The desk setup allows for much more comfortable working, and after spending an entire day looking out the window and working on my computer yesterday, I'm MUCH more comfortable (thus is the nature of dinettes and cheap cushions on plywood, of course) 4. it feels MUCH more open to us, even with the scraps that we're hanging on to for future projects and 5. I'm blown away at how much nicer this couch is. I wasn't expecting much from Ikea, but it first nicely in here, it's a lot lighter overall (and you can hear it when the slide goes in/out) and it's a lot more comfortable. We were also able to get our subwoofer under the couch, so Jurassic Park is a lot more enjoyable to watch. 🤣
@@georges4562 Thanks!! And they can both sprawl out a bit more, no more crankiness about who gets to be under the dinette it seems. The legs of the chairs don't bother them, to our surprise! Though it appears that they see it as more room for play... 😆 Any leads on a better deal for your rig, or great news that it'll be there next week?!
I understand that feeling. 😂 no effects at all in driving or a check engine light or anything like that. Other than the fordpass section of the menu, I wouldn’t know the difference!
My Ford C Max’s Telematic control unit (TCU) is draining the battery but before that the car computer realizes that and shuts the whole car and I have to jumpstart my car every time. If I remove the (TCU) will my car still work? 🙏❤️
In this case, there was absolutely NO impact to driving or any other system whatsoever! Give it a shot and disconnect it and see if anything is affected. If so, reconnect and all will be well again. 😊
@@1001books1 Just to be on the safe side, that couldn't hurt! I don't suspect it would make a difference one way or the other, but better safe than sorry!
Does anyone know where about the modem on Ford Maverick? The first thing they did when I bought the car is that they helped me install the fordpass, at first I thought it was cool, but now I'm not sure anymore and don't care so much about the information it provides me neverthelessless to them.
Take a look at the left or right, rear-most storage area. It's likely going to be mounted vertically, on one of the side walls, behind a plastic panel. That's where it is in the 2022 Explorer Police Interceptor versions, as I recall.
Just got 2023 F150. I can't open "Connected Vehicle Features" under "Connectivity". I've tried soft reset, factory reset, the tried pulling SYNC fuse, then pulled battery cable. None worked. How about this: How about Ford don't put out products that they can't make work properly. "We have all of this technology folks....its great, except we don't know how to make it work". Fail.
I've just come to the conclusion that I'm never buying a new car. I bought a 2021 Spark and my rates spiked up to $500 a month. Sold that car and bought a 2015 Focus. My insurance is now $200 a month. These manufacturers can eat s***. My Focus is a rare manual 2.0 and I'm not selling it till the engine seizes. And then I'll put another in.
Telematics by the manufacturers is an outright betrayal. That TCU is a part of the car price and its solely used by and for the financial benefit of the car manufacturer. I'm done with new cars. This type of thing as well as the horrible reliability of newer cars just makes it not worth it anymore.
People shouldn't get all worked up about them tracking you in your car. You already have a tracking device in your pocket and the scary part is they can still track you if you turn the phone off and remove the battery. It's the way of the world guys. We have not had real freedom since everyone became technology junkies.
We should be concerned but tracking a cell phone without power is just not possible. As for tracking your vehicle, it is a very different thing. That data has value! You SHOULD be worked up over this!
I have a new f150 crew cab lariat sport 3.5 ecoboost 6 inch lift and 22x12 wheels with 35x12.50s for sale. Or will trade for old truck without any of this bullshit
You should disconnect your phone while you're at it really can't run from it unless you live in a cave but yes I'd disconnect mine as well if it was installed in my car
"Saying that you don't care about privacy because you have nothing to hide is equivalent to saying that you don't care about freedom of speech because you have nothing to say" is one of the best quotes I've heard in awhile.
One of the best sayins I've heard in awhile is the Second Amendment is useless unless it comes with a pair of balls
That was sold shortly after 9/11 along with the Patriot Act. That forever changed society in America
First of all they doing it to deny your warranty and second they probably sell data to third parties
So glad you got info on this. Car dealers are saying they don't know about it and don't know how to disconnect it. I'm terrified not just of data collection, but a hacker or government's ability to disable your vehicle.
Thank you for highlighting this. I am vehemently opposed to ANY kind of surveillance state and this could obviously be used for that.
This obviously IS being used for that.
Thanks for this. To anyone struggling to find this device in their vehicle, consider using an EMF meter. It should register a stronger signal, the closer you get to the device. Best.
Regarding the 2023 Ranger. I have never found the device itself, but the manual does list the telematics modem fuse location. The first thing I did was when I got the truck was remove the fuse. When I did a connectivity icon on my radio screen was crossed out. I don't know if that stopped all transmissions or not. I never installed Fordpass so I can't speak to anything there either. For what it's worth I have had the truck for 10 months and it does not seem to have harmed anything. Of course, I can't promise the truck isn't transmitting either.
On all the F-series pickups, the module is behind the interior paneling below the rear window. On the left (driver's side in the US) side of the vehicle is the GPS and right side (passenger) is the telematics. I would recommend looking there if you haven't already.
Well done! It's unreal that this stuff is allowed. I guess they get you because we "agree to it" when we buy these things.
Thanks! And agreed. I think the thing that drives me nuts is that we had no clue what this was or that it existed because who actually reads a vehicle manual?! This is all nonsense in my opinion!
Louis Rossman calls it EULA RUFY (spelling, not sure?)
It never ends with those SOB's. Thanks for the info.
Thank you for this information. I was able to locate mine on a 2023 Ford Transit 350. It’s located under the steering wheel and looks exactly as you described it. Black on one side and silver on the other. The part number and IMEI numbers is on the black side of the unit which in my case was facing downward. It was very easy to disconnect. I hope this comment helps someone else.
Thank you for this. I was contemplating even canceling my order for a 2024 Transit and build out an older van in instead, in my disappointment over tracking, but it's good to know I could have the option of finding the module and unplugging it.
I'm glad it's helpful! The Transit has the unit either in the top of the dash or the driver side of the dash, to the left of the steering wheel, it shouldn't be much more difficult to access. Best of luck with your build!
Thank you so much.
Great video.
You are not alone with this issue.
I wish I could see how you disconnected the power from and how.
Keep them videos coming .
Shoot, sorry about that. It’s a tight space, but basically if you pull of the doghouse you will see the black main connector on the bottom, there’s a small tab. Squeeze and gently pull out and it’ll disconnect! Once you find your module, the fight is basically over!If you could disconnect the antennas somehow, and leave it powered there’s a good chance it would simply burn itself up without the resistance from the antennas in place. That was the original plan, but this was much easier!
Will do, thanks for the support!! 😊
@@CozyLivingMachine ok.
Thanks
good on you, thanks for figuring this out! I also have ford pass and was unaware of all the "automatic opt in" features - including the ability of anyone in the car (while running) to sync their phone or even apple watch to your car to then remotely lock/unlock, start and drive it away - that's any mechanic or valet. You have to know that you need to enable valet mode for any of these or else any old person with a phone can sync it to your car while the engine runs and now they have a key! Crazy stuff. Almost couldn't believe it.
Excellent video. Thank you for takjng your time to share this information with us.!!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Next time I'll charge a consultation fee. Glad you were finally able to get that completely disabled.
😂😂
I won't buy a new car ever again unless I'm able to disconnect the telematics modem first. The car industry has KILLED my interest in their new products by this alone.
@@pinball8701
Makes cash for clunkers make more sense doesn't it.....
Louis Rossman just dropped a video covering GM’s lucrative sale of driving behaviour data to Insurance companies via data brokers. It’s likely widespread across many manufacturers given the money they stand to make by doing this. It’s also possible the surveillance is illegal, but doesn’t matter to automakers as profits will likely outweigh fines.
I have a new car and this has taken all the enjoyment out of it for me. Driving at night or breaking hard are among the things that count negatively to insurance companies. I’m now hyper aware of every time the car incorrectly issues a safety warning like the lane assist thinking I’m driving out of my lane when in fact I’m intentionally giving space to a semi truck or when the emergency breaking system thinks I’m on a collision course with a car parked on the side of the road. It’s the cars poor software’s fault and I’m the one eating it in insurance premium hikes. And since the information is going by a third party, all insurance companies have access to this data. Sigh. I want a dumb car again.
2019 F150 XLT Super crew Cab, Found mine behind the back just like in the video
Nice...im buying one probably b4 the election so hopefully it's in the same spot and I can act appropriately lol
@@dgunearthed7859 All the F-series have it in the same spot. There are two modules back there, telematics on the right (passenger) side and GPS on the left. The research I've done leads me to believe the GPS is receive-only and can be safely ignored (location is only shared through the telematics unit)
I just found out that Chevy is sending my info to my insurance company as well!!
That's just insane. So many folks have no idea this is happening and nobody would consent to this!
I’d like to do that too, but I’m not going threw all that to find it. You’re right tho, privacy is something that’s getting pretty hard to come by these days!
When i made an appointment with the dealership for service, they asked for the mileage. I wasn't near the vehicle, and he said no problem and was able to pull the mileage from the vehicle. I thought that was strange and then started looking into this. Thanks for the info.
Thank you for sharing all of this info. I think Ford (as well as other automakers) need to be transparent with this BS. WHY are they doing this? WHO are they giving the information to? WHAT are they being paid for it? pretty sure they wouldn’t be doing this without some kind of $$ gain! So many questions ….
I have noticed that they give this GPS information to Law Enforcement during chases when they lose a vehicle or will give it to them at their requests to know where you are. Which means now LE doesn't even need to secretly attach their own GPS tracker to you vehicle anymore...they will just run you license plate which will give them the VIN of your car then they contact the dealership/Auto manufacturer who can then give them the location of your vehicle. This is why I really would like to have a way to block this signal and let others know how to also.
They give this to insurance companies and law enforcement
Onstar does the same thing even if you dont have the subscription. GM sells that info to a 3rd party. And that 3rd party sells it to insurance companies. Audio, video, hard breaking, hard acceleration, speeding, hard turning, location, trip time, and more. I took out the chip in my car today.
I've heard that can be even worse with the mic built in and additional sensors. Great point!
I'm happy that my Ford truck is too old to have this crap on it.
The fact that insurance companies get this info is reason enough to disable the module
Thank you I ordered a 2024 and was worried about this but wanted sync 4 for other reasons so had to have it. Ill be disabling now that I know its possible and wont mess with other functions.
Thanks, I also have a 2020 RV. I'd do it I knew how.
Your efforts are appreciated
For Ford Edge users: my 2022 Edge ST was factory equipped with GPS 4G tracker connected to the OBD II port (next to driver's left leg) and also for pass modem - the box, with IMEI stamped on it, was located in the back, next spare whell, under the hard foam moulds surrounding spare wheel. I don't use and I don't want ford pass app so all disconnected and scrapped:)
I not out there drag racing in my Mustang, but what I do, where I do it and how I do it is 100% my business. Not Ford's, not anyone else.
How can I remove any tracking off my mustang 2019 gt
I am very happy that you got that device out of there
Couldn't agree more with you, but I believe that this tool is actually designed for fleet management, and it simply is installed in every vehicle. There should be more transparency from their side to the customers and a much easier way to complete disable it on your own wish. The way it is, it makes you see it as a bit "dodgy". Unfortunately, we live in a time when data is the big money earner......
Absolutely, I suspect that it was originally designed just for the fleet management, which I'd say is a pretty nice thing to have as a business! But to see it in the Ford Mustangs and the rest, I have seen too much garbage like this working with tech that they have to make their money back on this somehow, and it's never in the customers' best interest! It really is amazing how much Big Data can earn a company. 😖
It jumped from fleet management, to we can collect data on and/or control every "customer" :)
Louis Rossman also has a bit about a patent where they can harass potential 'deadbeats' : th-cam.com/video/oR0PpUYhtcs/w-d-xo.htmlsi=WWgZXXeA3NBFcm6I
After Edward Snowden dropped the reality about all the electronic tracking happening on all levels, it seems to me that a few convenient bells and whistles are marketed to the consumer so they accept and enjoy tracking... meanwhile, the reality is that it's primarily benefiting corporations and governments
This information is very accurate thanks for sharing it to the public
where to find that in ford everest 2023?
The worse thing about the Ford Pass is it tracks vehicle functions. They can then use this data to deny warrant work if they deem YOU are the cause for the warranty repair, is what I have been hearing. Will dig into this more and report back.
They will try using any reason to deny warranty work these days whether its caused by the customer or a manufacturers quality or design issue.
Thank you so much for this.
You are so welcome!
It can also be used to spy on the people around your car., if your vehicle has cameras or proximity sensors.
doesn’t it generate any error codes after you disconnect it?
Does it have built-in GPS module
or that is separate from the unit?
Not a single error. It does have a built-in GPS unit as well, and one of the three antenna ports on the unit are dedicated to the GPS antenna there!
It does not.
Was told that Ford cars record EVERYTHING! From tire angle to g-forces, speed, conversations. Everything! Was told they have the ability to hack a mustang and shut it down while your driving the car.
Thank you
Thanks, info is helpful. I was looking for error info, why it is the fordpass app did and dealer didn't see or have history of dash errors. when i had truck at dealer for a battery (1 of 2) gone bad - replaced (under warranty). The other part is i was looking for more relevant info on a recall - Ford Diesel RECALL 22E04.
Great video!! I have a 2017 F150 Larriat and am wondering if I have telematics. If I download Ford Pass, it will not allow me to remotely unlock or lock my doors OR pretty much anything remotely. Does this mean I do NOT have telematics? Thanks!!
Thank you! Yep, yours does appear to have Telematics. It doesn't have remote functions, but you may be able to see things like vehicle diagnostics, maybe fuel level, mileage, etc. I'm surprised it doesn't have a lock/unlock function, but it would otherwise still be reporting back to Ford some data!
I am curious where is this on a Ford Fusion
Glad to know this is behind my seat of my F150 in case i need to disable it....may do that even though i like being able to track my truck incase it's stolen.
Buy/use your own tracking device that only you have access to
Does anyone know where the modem is located on Ford maverick? Insure would like to disconnect it. They are taking away our freedom.
So should we disconnect both the Modem and the TCU or just the TCU?*?
In this case, the module is all in one. Disconnect power to the TCU and it will disconnect the modem as well.
@@CozyLivingMachine ** I wonder if by just pulling out the TCU fuse will do the trick or disconnect it completely or do both!?! Thanks
@@zikiflx I cannot say why, but disconnecting the fuse in our E-450 did NOT disconnect power. It's easy to verify by signing in to the FordPass app and you can see the vehicle data and location, and then pulling the fuse. Likely, you will still see the data on your vehicle. Once you disconnect the module itself from power (or just disconnect both cellular and the single GPS antenna) you will find that your data is no longer updating in the app.
@@CozyLivingMachine * * Thanks for all the info👍👍
@@CozyLivingMachine **Hey after doing a little extra research I also found out in my wiring schematics that there is a another GPS unit supposedly located in the front center dash of the 22 F250 and I wonder if you know anything about that one or if that has anything to do with Ford GPS tracking/location!?!
Great info!
CAN you isolate it by encasing it in a grounded metal housing?
I suspect that being grounded would have no bearing, so much as just blocking the signal with multiple layers of metal that reflects all broadcasted radio waves. However, unplugging is far easier and uses no further materials. 🤘
@@CozyLivingMachine yah so long as it is not necessary to the vehicle operating properly. have you disconnected it ?
@Raul28153 yep, I've disconnected it on every vehicle I've had and it makes no difference at all for vehicle operation.
@@CozyLivingMachine good to know
When it's unplugged how often do you get alerts on the dash saying something is wrong? Can you make the alerts go away? Then if I plug it In for updates will all GPS data be uploaded?
I was thinking of just installing a jammer next to the unit.
There was never a single alert or error anywhere, and if it's unplugged the GPS unit cannot aggregate your data and upload it all at once, thankfully! It's possible a jammer may work, but seem that it would create work to be sure that it doesn't cause legal issues by creating interference with other mobile devices being that it's using a GPS signal as well as standard cell frequencies. I would expect that it would also cause more battery drain being that this unit runs 24/7, so a jammer would have to as well. But hey, either method stops data transmission!
I can confirm as a 2019 f150 super crew lariat owner the telematics module is on the rear passenger side behind the back seat as pictured in the video. Mine was assembled in Missouri so I cannot say whether the location would be the same for trucks built outside of the US. I am now unplugged and can confirm that after unplugging it location sharing on the app is no longer available. Thank you :)
Is there a fuse you can pull or wire you can disconnect? I don't want to have some sort of cyber attack disable the vehicle. Might seem paranoid but the way things are going I wouldn't be suprised. Its a 2023 f250
Our unit did not have a fuse that would affect this function for whatever reason, which was very confusing. Until it was unplugged it would still communicate with the main servers and I could lock and unlock and control the vehicle remotely. Even with the fuse pulled. I have another video that shows that.
Where do you think this would be located in the newer expeditions ?
Rear, driver side compartment area is where I would expect: f01.justanswer.com/hdgene/9adbd90a-72c1-425b-925b-c5e962126608_tmu.pdf
f01.justanswer.com/hdgene/6db16ad2-c4bb-479b-8296-3584d9ced2d6_lsp.png
Have you had issues with getting updates for Sync or anything since disabling?
This unit has no Sync functionality because it's a separate Sony head unit, though if it did have Ford Sync this may potentially break that functionality due to disabling the cellular connection. That would be perfect for me, though personal preference!
Hello what about on a 2020 Ford f150
The core problem lies in the directive from the Federal Government to car manufacturers, mandating the installation of data-collecting and transmitting devices in vehicles. Moreover, they've instructed manufacturers to conceal this from consumers and coerce them into signing agreements allowing the sale of their cars and personal data. Refusal to sign means no car purchase.
My Question to Cozy Living Machine is: After deactivating the device, did you encounter any problems with the truck once you unplug the device?
No difference whatsoever! I couldn't track or unlock my doors remotely, but I don't care about that at all.
So how has no one sued them for this? I wasn't aware of fordpass until one day I got the pop-up when I turned on my car and couldn't turn it off
I apprciate the time spemt on that deep dive of the Ford tracking system rabbit hole.
Excellent info.
2021 transit 350 cargo van. I found my unit in the dash buried at the top.
Clip a couple of wires, done.
I wonder if i can sell this thing...... anyone have any ideas?
I've seen them on eBay. Whether or not they sell is another question! 😂
Would you be able to pull the fuse for the TCU and accomplish the same result? Some vehicles have this unit in locations impossible to access.
I cannot explain why, but unfortunately no. The unit still receives network connectivity and power even with that fuse pulled. The easiest way to test is with the FordPass app, noting whether or not the device functions without the fuse in place. The nice thing is that I've not seen a unit that is all too tough to access yet, rather it's the hunt of finding the module that tends to be the most challenging.
@CozyLivingMachine
That's unfortunate. In the 2024 Ford Ranger, it is located directly behind the enormous main display screen. I'm not sure how you could sneak in there.
I have a 2014 F150, it has sync, I am worried my truck has this. I might be just before that was installed (hopefully)
Hello
Great video, thank you.
Do you know where is it on ford ranger model 2020 please?
Try under the back seat, either the bottom or behind the back rest.
@@CozyLivingMachine thank you . I will check
Dude you are amazing, now that I’m finding this 2 years later 😹
Lockdown your phones and computers too lol.
Oh and no more new cars
Does 2018 have it?
They do!
Did this cause you to lose navigation and car/phone connectivity?
No.
How did you know which fuse to unplug
You can look at the Ford site for the fuse diagram or another site like this for your particular vehicle: fuse-box.info/ford/ford-e-series-2021-2022-fuses
I have turned down an incredible deal offered to me for a Ford Bronco Black Diamond just because if this!!!! BIG TURN OFF and I will NEVER BUY A FORD.
Pretty much all car companies do this now, it’s standard practice
Do you know where it would be in a bronco ?
I've not seen on the Broncos, though I'm going to assume it'll be in the same general area - somewhere dry, inside the cabin, close enough to the computer but mounted where there is space. I'd bet between the steering wheel and radio, in the dash.
So as a ford tech and I ask you have you connect your vehicle and I may be able to tell you what’s wrong with your vehicle over the phone and may be able to order a part but if not connected you would rather bring your vehicle for a day waiting for me to find out what’s wrong with the vehicle and then order a part ?? And with vehicle these days I can still plug I your vehicle and see a lot of info about your vehicle ?? Also allowed your vehicle to update too over WiFi ??
There isn't a single Ford dealer that will touch these motorhomes within 250 miles around us anyhow, but it's an easy reconnect as needed! Great point!
Okay! This is something I definitely want to do. Do you know if that is a ford f 150 in that photo that someone sent you? I’m trying to figure out where to start looking. Thanks for the video. I’ve been weirded out by this
Sure was! Likely going to be behind the seat back, though I suspect that isn’t too tough to remove, just a few bolts, thankfully!
And good for you for caring about your privacy! It’s such a shame that too many people don’t care enough to even begin to learn.
Thanks brother. I’m going to be attacking that tomorrow morning. Thank you for the reply. Hope the rv life is serving y’all well! Wife and I did a year in a 30footer for our honeymoon. Some good times.
Once you did this did you lose the ability to connect your phone to the stereo?
Nope!
Anyone know where this is located on a 2022 bronco?
hi i have a 2020 expedition Max where can i disable it at ?
You can do the same thing with the fuse, of course, but the actual TCU (black box) is going to take just a bit of fishing around. The likely spots are:
1. Very rear left or right walls of the cargo area
2. Within the dash area
3. Behind the glove compartment
4. Under the seats
The device must be kept dry, so you know it's inside the vehicle. You can also rent access to the Motorcraft system very cheap, and learn everything you'd ever need to know. I did a video on that: th-cam.com/video/lpCSI4cVqrM/w-d-xo.html
it's crazy there is such little info on how to remove this. and why they go to great lengths to make it difficult
Is there a way to disable this on the 2022 Mach-e?
The module is likely in either the rearmost left or rearmost right panels at the back storage area, easy to access.
Good information. I checked on my 2019 F53 chassis and when I enter my VIN, it says that I don't have connectivity on my vehicle. I assume that my chassis didn't get the telemetry module?
I'd have to guess that you don't have it on there, though you can confirm by checking settings in your dash menu as well and looking for "FordPass", or by taking a peek under the dash. I show you how to do that in tomorrow's video!
Has anyone viewing this completed this disable described on a 2021 F-250 or equivalent ?? What was the result , good, bad, or indifferent ?
I got here bc I’m concerned about repo being able to find me with gps locator when I was shopping around for another vehicle, it was brought to my attention that the truck if it was ever stolen, had a tracker to locate it so now that my circumstances have changed and I’m unable to make payments on my vehicle, I was thinking well they could probably find my vehicle using that same type of tracker so I searched my model which is a 2017 Ford fusion and supposedly it does have GPS capacity and I’ve been trying to find how I can remove it if anybody knows anything. I’d appreciate it.
What about the mach e
You're in luck! th-cam.com/video/lpCSI4cVqrM/w-d-xo.html
👍👍👍👍👍 Great info Joel
Thanks!! If you happen to disconnect this unit and dig deeper to disconnect the antennas, once you get your rig, I’d love to know why these are so stubborn or if I’m just an idiot. 😂 unplugging things USUALLY isn’t so tough!
@@CozyLivingMachine How’s the new furniture setup working out for you guys. I know it sure looks nice 👍
@@georges4562 Thanks! And there are a few things I've noticed: 1. I need a table saw because there are very small gaps that I'm not a huge fan of, though these will be covered in due time. We're just getting used to everything and how we use it. 2. There's a lot more convenient storage. 3. The desk setup allows for much more comfortable working, and after spending an entire day looking out the window and working on my computer yesterday, I'm MUCH more comfortable (thus is the nature of dinettes and cheap cushions on plywood, of course) 4. it feels MUCH more open to us, even with the scraps that we're hanging on to for future projects and 5. I'm blown away at how much nicer this couch is. I wasn't expecting much from Ikea, but it first nicely in here, it's a lot lighter overall (and you can hear it when the slide goes in/out) and it's a lot more comfortable. We were also able to get our subwoofer under the couch, so Jurassic Park is a lot more enjoyable to watch. 🤣
@@CozyLivingMachine I’m happy for you. How do the dogs like the change ?
@@georges4562 Thanks!! And they can both sprawl out a bit more, no more crankiness about who gets to be under the dinette it seems. The legs of the chairs don't bother them, to our surprise! Though it appears that they see it as more room for play... 😆
Any leads on a better deal for your rig, or great news that it'll be there next week?!
Great tip. I now am feeling very violated. Did it effect the infotainment in dash?
I understand that feeling. 😂 no effects at all in driving or a check engine light or anything like that. Other than the fordpass section of the menu, I wouldn’t know the difference!
Lots of people either dont care or are just resigned to giving up their personal data to corporations to do with as they please. I am not one of them.
Thank you for this video, it was very helpful.
My Ford C Max’s Telematic control unit (TCU) is draining the battery but before that the car computer realizes that and shuts the whole car and I have to jumpstart my car every time. If I remove the (TCU) will my car still work? 🙏❤️
In this case, there was absolutely NO impact to driving or any other system whatsoever! Give it a shot and disconnect it and see if anything is affected. If so, reconnect and all will be well again. 😊
@@CozyLivingMachine thanks so much. My car is a little ford c max, plug-in hybrid. To uninstall the TCU, should I disconnect the battery wires? 🙏❤️
@@1001books1 Just to be on the safe side, that couldn't hurt! I don't suspect it would make a difference one way or the other, but better safe than sorry!
@@CozyLivingMachine thank you 🙏 ❤️
Does anyone know where about the modem on Ford Maverick? The first thing they did when I bought the car is that they helped me install the fordpass, at first I thought it was cool, but now I'm not sure anymore and don't care so much about the information it provides me neverthelessless to them.
Why do we wanna disable this?
th-cam.com/video/bUAo2xEOKNY/w-d-xo.html
How can i disable gps on a mustang match e 2024
It's in one of the left or right rear most panels along the side, according to the Ford site.
First thing I’ll do when I get a new Ford F150 is shut this thing down.
Credit karma lists a driver score, list fast driving take off
Rapid stopping
You now have to find a way to reverse engineer their modem to get free internet
Not gonna lie, that thought crossed my mind. 🤣
Hello, great video. Just curious if u no how to disable the tracking on a 2021 explorer?
Take a look at the left or right, rear-most storage area. It's likely going to be mounted vertically, on one of the side walls, behind a plastic panel. That's where it is in the 2022 Explorer Police Interceptor versions, as I recall.
Just got 2023 F150. I can't open "Connected Vehicle Features" under "Connectivity". I've tried soft reset, factory reset, the tried pulling SYNC fuse, then pulled battery cable. None worked. How about this: How about Ford don't put out products that they can't make work properly. "We have all of this technology folks....its great, except we don't know how to make it work". Fail.
I've just come to the conclusion that I'm never buying a new car. I bought a 2021 Spark and my rates spiked up to $500 a month. Sold that car and bought a 2015 Focus. My insurance is now $200 a month. These manufacturers can eat s***. My Focus is a rare manual 2.0 and I'm not selling it till the engine seizes. And then I'll put another in.
Sadly I don't think I'll ever buy a Ford again because of this and because they don't sell cars anymore.
Telematics by the manufacturers is an outright betrayal. That TCU is a part of the car price and its solely used by and for the financial benefit of the car manufacturer.
I'm done with new cars. This type of thing as well as the horrible reliability of newer cars just makes it not worth it anymore.
The module has bluetooth, so it can see and track mobile phone users inside the car
People shouldn't get all worked up about them tracking you in your car. You already have a tracking device in your pocket and the scary part is they can still track you if you turn the phone off and remove the battery. It's the way of the world guys. We have not had real freedom since everyone became technology junkies.
We should be concerned but tracking a cell phone without power is just not possible. As for tracking your vehicle, it is a very different thing. That data has value! You SHOULD be worked up over this!
A published Ford memo says the data is worth more to them than the vehicle 😐
That wouldn't surprise me one bit.
I just found mine. Goodbye Ford.
I have a new f150 crew cab lariat sport 3.5 ecoboost 6 inch lift and 22x12 wheels with 35x12.50s for sale. Or will trade for old truck without any of this bullshit
I think if you don't pay your bank, they can locate it and take it back. :)
That's not wrong, and absolutely why I don't leave that nonsense enabled!
You should disconnect your phone while you're at it really can't run from it unless you live in a cave but yes I'd disconnect mine as well if it was installed in my car
based
bad situation with new cars..........
Can’t you just turn off wifi in settings?
No, that just ensures that you cannot use the feature, but it still communicates over LTE.