Dodge Releasing New Security Upgrade to Battle Car Theft
Although it should seem like a difficult task to steal a car these days, what with theft deterrent systems, engine immobilization, and the fact that hot-wiring is basically nonexistent these days, carjacking still happens every day. Having your car stolen can be a horrible experience, and in an effort to thwart these would be carjackers, Dodge is taking a stand and releasing a new software upgrade that will make a driving off with a stolen Dodge Charger or Dodge Challenger basically impossible.
Currently limited to Charger and Challenger SRT models equipped with 392-cubic-inch HEMI® V8 or supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 engines, being some of the fastest in the bunch, this new software upgrade is pretty easy to use. The Dodge owner sets up a four-digit security code, and unless entered, the vehicle’s engine speed is locked into idle (less than 700 rpm), preventing the ability to drive off with the vehicle and commit auto theft. It’s a pretty humorous image in mind, and a little awkward for everyone involved.
“Today, Dodge is launching a new owner-customized ‘double verification’ security system…When flashed into the computer of affected 2015 or newer Dodge muscle cars, the protective software will limit the engine output to less than 3 horsepower, foiling fast getaways and joyrides.” – Tim Kuniskis, Dodge Brand Chief Executive Officer – Stellantis
Dodge is releasing this software upgrade, completely free for any Dodge dealer on 2015 through 2021 model-year Dodge muscle cars. One would also expect that this is only applicable to models with the Uconnect 4C infotainment system, given that the upgrade second-level vehicle security encryption via this system. The security measure is a response from Dodge to vehicle theft. Over 150 cars are stolen every day here in the states. It’s hard to imagine such a large number of vehicles disappear, but it happens.
Dodge vehicles are powered by some of the strongest engines out there, but even the 392-cubic-inch HEMI® V8 or supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 engines are harmless when idling. That means no foot on the gas pedal, just turning the car on and letting the engine pull the car forward. It’s approximately 2.8 horsepower and 22 lb.-ft. of torque, and basically inching forward the whole way. No high-speed chases are happening with this enhanced security measure installed.
As mentioned, owners of 2015 through 2021 Dodge Challenger SRT or Charger SRT models equipped with either the 392-cubic-inch HEMI® V8 or supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 engine will become eligible for this security upgrade. The upgrade is also being expanded to owners of 2019-2021 Scat Pack models with the 392-cubic-inch HEMI® V8 engine. For all owners of these Dodge vehicles looking to get more involved with their security, consumers should contact their local Dodge dealer, that would be us at Aventura Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram, to schedule a free Security Mode installation appointment.
This new security measure will become available during the second quarter of 2021, so between April and July 2021. Why Dodge would limit this security measure to just the SRT HEMI and SRT Hellcat with the Redeye and Super Stock models also out there? The SRT Super Stock alone starts at $80,000 (plus destination fee). Who wouldn’t want to protect an investment like that? You can check out Dodge SRT vehicles and more when you come to Aventura Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram.