Mazda infotainment systems crash in rows because of image
Again and again, rather strange software errors make it into the reports of tech magazines. In the automotive sector in particular, vehicles are no longer immune to bugs. Due to the increasing use of entertainment systems and the incredibly high number of possible variations, a car quickly becomes a nightmare for any quality assurance. That something slips through is therefore more than human.
For example, those responsible for Mazda overlooked a rather interesting bug that only occurs in very special cases. Nevertheless, dozens of vehicles in and around Seattle are affected by the problem these days. Why Seattle? Because that’s where the local station KUOW broadcasts its program into the airwaves.
The problem isn’t that KUOW is a cover for cyberattacks, it’s just that the broadcaster provided a graphic to be displayed next to the name in vehicle infotainment systems. This works smoothly for many manufacturers, only Mazda has a pretty big problem here. Because the image file is missing the file extension.
As a result, the infotainment system of Mazda models from 2014 to 2017 doesn’t really know what to do with the file and takes the most obvious route: it crashes. In addition to the unusability of radio and media content, the Bluetooth connection and the possibility of using CDs and USB devices should also be restricted.
Anyone who now thinks that this error can simply be fixed with an update is wrong. Mazda models from the years mentioned do not have the option of receiving an update, this does not work via OTA or via cable in the workshop. As a result, the $1,500 main computer needs to be replaced.
And the problems don’t stop there. Because even if Mazda takes on this repair as a gesture of goodwill, it is difficult due to the coronavirus pandemic. Just like other manufacturers, Mazda is also affected by the chip crisis and cannot supply the required components. A small software bug turns into a problem for the customer that lasts for months.
Via The Verge
