VIDEO: Hackers Take Control of 2014 Jeep Cherokee
FCA US is recalling about 1.4 million vehicles to install a software patch that addresses a hacking vulnerability tied to the Uconnect infotainment system.
Video: FCA US Recall to Address Hacking Risk
In response to a report of vehicle hacking via the Uconnect system, FCA US is updating software for about 1.4 million vehicles in the U.S.
by Staff
July 24, 2015
2 min to read
The recall covers vehicles equipped with 8.4-inch touchscreens. Included are:
2013-2015 MY Dodge Viper specialty vehicles
2013-2015 MY Ram 1500, 2500 and 3500 pickups
2013-2015 MY Ram 3500, 4500, 5500 Chassis Cabs
2014-2015 MY Jeep Grand Cherokee and Cherokee SUVs
2014-2015 MY Dodge Durango SUVs
2015 MY Chrysler 200, Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger sedans
2015 MY Dodge Challenger sports coupes.
“The recall aligns with an ongoing software distribution that insulates connected vehicles from remote manipulation, which, if unauthorized, constitutes criminal action,” FCA US said in a released statement. “Further, FCA US has applied network-level security measures to prevent the type of remote manipulation demonstrated in a recent media report.”
FCA US said it implemented those network security measures, aimed at blocking remote access to certain vehicle systems, on July 23. They required no customer or dealer actions.
These new vehicle security measures come in response to a Wired report describing how security researchers at IOActive successfully hacked into a 2014 Jeep Cherokee through its cellular connection. During the hacking test, the researchers remotely seized control of such equipment as the air conditioning system, radio and windshield wipers. The hackers also eventually shut off the engine while the vehicle was traveling on a highway. (To watch a video of the experiment, click on the photo or link below the headline.)
As part of the recall, vehicle owners will receive a USB device that will let them install the software patch. This software will provide “additional security features independent of the network-level measures,” FCA US said.
Vehicle owners can click here to determine whether their vehicle is included in the recall. (You need to have the VIN to check.)
FCA US also noted it has established a system-quality engineering team to focus on software development and integration best practices.
“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 automaker said. “No defect has been found. FCA US is conducting this campaign out of an abundance of caution.”
Vehicle owners can reach the FCA US customer care center at (800) 853-1403.
_________________________________________________________________________
Related: Jeep Cherokee Hacked by Security Researchers
_________________________________________________________________________
More Safety
The Distractions You Can’t Turn Off: What Drivers Face Outside the Vehicle
Fleet drivers face constant visual, cognitive, and environmental interruptions the moment they hit the road. From roadside chaos to mental fatigue and digital overload, today’s biggest driving risks often come from outside the vehicle itself.
Read More →
FLASH Weather AI Launches First Deep-Learning Hail Prediction Model With High-Resolution Forecasting
FLASH Weather AI has launched a first-of-its-kind hail prediction model capable of forecasting hail size and arrival time at 1-kilometer resolution up to 55 minutes ahead, giving fleets and insurers critical time to prepare for severe storms.
Read More →
How Coca-Cola United Protects Its Fleet from Growing Legal Risk
As litigation risk rises, vehicles are increasingly targeted. This Coca-Cola bottler shares how it’s reducing exposure through driver training, technology, and a proactive risk management approach.
Read More →
How to Speak the Same Language on Fleet Safety
Drivers, supervisors, and data often speak different safety “languages.” Getting on the same page will drive better results.
Read More →
Fleet Cybersecurity 101: What You Need from Your Technology Vendors
From identity management to third-party certifications, the right technology partner should make security easier to manage. Here are the three building blocks that fleet managers need to stay in control as connected systems scale.
Read More →
Reducing Risk by Eliminating Phone Use Behind the Wheel
Distracted driving remains one of the most persistent risks in fleet operations. New approaches focus on removing mobile device use entirely while adding real-time safety support.
Read More →
Distracted Driving in the Age of Smart Tech – Part 2
As distraction risks evolve, fleets are turning to smarter, more connected technologies to better understand what’s happening behind the wheel. Part 2 explores how these tools are helping identify risky behaviors and improve visibility across operations.
Read More →
Data Rights, Risks, and Responsibilities After a Crash
What fleets capture to improve safety can also expose them in litigation, forcing leaders to rethink how data is managed, stored, and shared.
Read More →
From Distraction to Detection: Strengthening Awareness in Fleet Drivers
Distracted driving is often measured by what we can see—phones in hand, eyes off the road. But what about the distractions we can’t? A recent incident raises a bigger question about awareness, attention, and why subtle risks so often go unnoticed.
Read More →
Lytx 2026 Road Safety Report
While serious crashes are declining, a rise in minor incidents and ongoing risk hotspots underscore the need for continued fleet safety investment.
Read More →