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Vehicle Data Recording and
Privacy
Your GM vehicle has a number of sophisticated
computers that record information about the
vehicle’s performance and how it is driven.
For example, your vehicle uses computer modules
to monitor and control engine and transmission
performance, to monitor the conditions for airbag
deployment and deploy airbags in a crash and,
if so equipped, to provide anti-lock braking to help
the driver control the vehicle. These modules may
store data to help your dealer/retailer technician
service your vehicle. Some modules may also store
data about how you operate the vehicle, such as
rate of fuel consumption or average speed. These
modules may also retain the owner’s personal
preferences, such as radio pre-sets, seat positions,
and temperature settings.
Event Data Recorders
Some information about your vehicle’s performance
and how it is driven may be recorded on various
modules if a crash occurs. Some people refer to
these modules as event data recorders (EDRs).
These modules may record several seconds of
pre-crash and crash data, such as data related
to engine speed, brake application, throttle
position, vehicle speed, yaw rate, steering
wheel angle, lateral acceleration, safety belt
usage, airbag readiness, airbag performance
and the severity of the collision. Unlike the flight
data recorders on airplanes, these modules do not
record sounds or conversations.
To retrieve this data, special equipment and
access to the vehicle or the module that stores
the data are required. Certain data may also be
sent to or retrieved by OnStar
®
(see below).
GM will not access this information or share it with
others except: with the consent of the vehicle owner
or, if the vehicle is leased, with the consent of the
lessee; in response to an official request of police or
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