This is my problem. We have 2 cars, a 2006 and a 2007. The time will come when we have to replace them. Right now I'm just hoping that industries like crate engines take off before that happens, because I don't personally believe consumer protection laws will work.

It's hard for me to imagine needing a new car. There will be suitable older used cars available for a long time still. When there isn't anymore, I'll work out a different plan.

I agree with you that the law is the right way to address these issues, but until then I'm on my own.

America will end up looking like Cuba.

On the other hand the 3G system shutdown might help this issue.

By the time todays new cars become used, hopefully people will have figured out how to disable these features.

They already are. For lots of cars, a quick web search will get you instruction for how to disable the car's ability to phone home. As time goes on, I expect more and more cars will have such instructions.

That's pretty much my backup plan for when the day comes that even used cars include this stuff. But until then, it's easier for me to stick with used cars that don't require modification.