The 3G Shutdown

27 January 2022 | Fleet Tracking, Vehicle Tracking

Is Your Car Affected?

This year thousands of drivers will be affected following the planned shutdown of outdated 3G networks which will affect the connection of dozens of vehicle models from 2010 to as most recent as 2021.

The once dominating and innovated 3G network has now become outdated and replaced by 5G and even 6G networks leading the tech world. This means 3G is soon to become extinct and if your vehicle relies on the 3G network for your GPS, this could mean bad news for vehicle owners.


It has been revealed the 3G shutdown will affect dozens of vehicle models released between 2010 and 2021 which have telematics within them which includes combining GPS systems with the ability to update your location and traffic data while navigating, onboard vehicle diagnostics, wireless telematics devices, and black box technologies to record and transmit vehicle data.  This is why 3G deactivation will have a significant impact on vehicles unlike smartphones which users typically replace every couple of years, car owners keep their vehicles up to 10 years or more.


It has been revealed the 3G shutdown will affect dozens of vehicle models released between 2010 and 2021 which have telematics within them which includes combining GPS systems with the ability to update your location and traffic data while navigating, onboard vehicle diagnostics, wireless telematics devices, and black box technologies to record and transmit vehicle data.  This is why 3G deactivation will have a significant impact on vehicles unlike smartphones which users typically replace every couple of years, car owners keep their vehicles for longer periods of time.

Due to the way many vehicles are designed, it can be difficult or even impossible to upgrade the technology to work with the newer networks due to systems integrated into the car’s dash or electronic control unit.  The only option is to return your car to your dealer for an upgrade – however not all are offering this option leaving you without the service altogether even after paying more for this additional feature when you purchased your car. Car owners from brands like Lexus, Toyota, and BMW have already received emails to advise they will no longer be able to benefit from these services once 3G has gone.


The Drive (www.thedrive.co.uk) has compiled a list of every car that is going to be impacted by 3G shutdowns this year.

Acura: MDX (2014-2017), ILX (2016-2017), RDX (2016-2017), RDX (2019-2021), RLX (2014-2016), TLX (2015-2017) and NSX (2017).

Audi: A3 e-Tron (2016-2018), A4/Allroad (2013-2018), A5 (2013-2018), A6 (2012-2015), A7 (2012-2015), A8 (2012-2018), RS 5 (2019), Q3 (2015-2018), Q5 (2013-2018) and Q7 (2012-2018).

Certain Bentley models produced before 2020.

Certain BMW models produced before 2019.

General Motors said that certain models produced between 2015 and 2021 will be affected, including ones from sub-brands Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, and GMC.

Honda: Accord (Touring trim, 2018-2020), Odyssey (Touring and Elite trims, 2018-2020), Insight (Touring trim, 2019-2020), Passport (Touring and Elite trims, 2019-2021) and Pilot (Touring, Elite and Black Edition trims, 2019-2022).

Lexus: All models produced from 2010 to 2017 and GX (2018).

Mazda: CX-3 (2016-2019), CX-5 (2016-2020), CX-9 (2016-2020), Mazda3 (2016-2018) and Mazda6 (2016-2019).

Mitsubishi: Eclipse Cross (All, telematics-equipped) and Outlander (All, telematics-equipped).

Porsche: 911 (2017-2019), 918 Spyder (2014), 718 (2017-2021), Cayenne (2015-2019), Macan (2017-2018) and Panamera (2014-2018).

Stellantis said that some models will be affected, which may include vehicles produced under the sub-brands Alfa Romeo, Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Jeep, Maserati and Ram.

Subaru: Crosstrek (2016-2019), Forester (2016-2018), Legacy (2016-2018), Impreza (2016-2018), WRX (2017-2018), WRX STI (2017-2018) and Outback (2016-2018).

Tesla: Model S vehicles produced before June 2015.

Toyota: 4Runner (2010-2019), Avalon (2013-2018), Camry (2013-2017), Highlander (2014-2018), Land Cruiser (2011-2017), Mirai (2016-2017), Prius (2010-2016), Prius Plug-in (2012-2015), Prius V (2012-2016), RAV4 EV (2012-2014) and Sienna (2011-2017).

Volkswagen: Atlas (2018-2019), Arteon (2018-2019), Beetle (2014-2019), CC (2014-2018), Eos (2014-2017), Golf/Golf R/eGolf/Golf Sportwagen/Golf GTI (2014-2019), Jetta (2014-2019), Passat (2014-2019) and Tiguan (2014-2019).

Volvo: S60 (2015.5-2018), V60 (2015.5-2018), V60 Cross Country (2015.5-2018), XC60 (2015.5-2017), XC70 (2015.5-2016) and XC90 (2016).


If you are going to be affected by this 3G shutdown, Vehicle Tracking Solutions can help!

We will keep your car and commercial fleet connected and secure with our bespoke fleet management software and leading stolen vehicle trackers.  All our trackers and software are 5G and above compatible which can easily be updated with any future updates.  You no longer have to worry about spending your hard-earned money on something that will again become obsolete and of no use to you because of continual technology advancements.


Call us today to speak to one of our experts about how our Thatcham-approved trackers can help you stay connected and protect your vehicle.

Call us on 0333 370 3258 or email us at info@vehicletracksolutions.co.uk