New owners of used Toyota vehicles face uncertainty regarding previous owners' continued access to car app features. The app should provide a clear, immediate process for new owners to verify and revoke any existing access from prior owners to ensure privacy and security.
I bought a used 2023 Corolla Hybrid from a non-Toyota dealership. I could not immediately link to the app as primary driver, so I called Toyota, and they said to send proof of ownership. I bought the car on 01/16, sent the ownership docs on the 17th. They confirm receipt and all is Kosher. I should expect resolution within 48 hours. I called back on the 20th. They’re backlogged, and have not gotten to my car. They will not tell me if the previous owner is still subscribed to my car, or even if anyone today can remote start my car, see where it is parked, where I live, where I go, etc. The guy on the phone with me right now as I write this does not have permission to tell me this. I keep saying how utterly insane it is that they cannot tell me if there is anyone - not someone’s specific information- but ANYONE who can access or remotely start my car, and they keep telling me they cannot tell me this. I paid in cash for this car, and they cannot tell me if it will be stolen or tracked by an app they created? I also cannot feel like I actually own this car, because someone else has more rights and more access to it than me. And all he keeps telling me is that he is messaging with his boss, and they are not giving him approval to speak directly with me, or tell me if anyone can just steal my car through their app. So think about this if you are thinking about buying a Toyota. I am not allowed to know if they are facilitating the potential theft of my car. Edit to add: It is the 30th, two weeks after I purchased the car, and after some hours on the phone, the issue is finally resolved. The tech was reset, previous owner’s information unlinked from my car, and I am now the primary driver. Still stupid policies from Toyota. I’d be happier with none of the tech features. I don’t want them tracking my every move and selling my information to insurance companies (I declined consent for that- but the gall.), or anyone else. I just wanted a long-lasting, fuel efficient car. And I love the car otherwise.