OWNER REMOVES MODEM AND GPS FROM 2024 RAV4

The owner successfully extracted both the cellular modem and GPS hardware from their 2024 RAV4 Hybrid, detailed in a technical write-up that gained 300 points on Hacker News with 149 comments. The project addresses growing concerns among vehicle owners about embedded tracking systems and data collection. Modern vehicles increasingly include always-on connectivity features that transmit location and diagnostic data to manufacturers. The documented removal provides a proof-of-concept for users seeking to limit their vehicle's connectivity footprint. It demonstrates that these systems are hardware-based components that can be physically disabled, though doing so may affect features like emergency SOS calling and remote diagnostics. The high engagement on Hacker News suggests strong interest in the intersection of automotive technology, privacy, and right-to-repair principles. The project joins a broader conversation about user control over connected devices and data privacy in modern vehicles.