Chrysler is recalling about 1.4 million cars and trucks equipped with electronics that could be vulnerable to hacking. Chrysler says it has blocked unauthorized remote access to certain vehicle systems with a network-level improvement. Chrysler was already distributing software to insulate connected vehicles from hacking after Wired magazine published a story about software programmers who were able to take over a Jeep Cherokee being driven on a Missouri highway. Chrysler repeats that it’s not aware of any real-world unauthorized remote hack. They say no defect was found and that it’s conducting the recall as a cautionary measure. The recall covers almost a million more models than those initially identified as needing a software patch. The action includes 2015 versions of Ram pickups, Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee SUV’s, Dodge Challenger sports coupes and Vipers. Affected customers will receive a USB device to upgrade their vehicle’s software.
