You can keep the tech features on that used car -- but automakers will charge you again

Buying a used car may no longer mean you keep all of its original high-tech features. Software-defined vehicles (SDVs) use updatable onboard software to add, unlock, or enhance functions after the sale—often behind a subscription or paywall. As a result, some features that an original owner paid to activate could be tied to accounts, trials, or premium tiers rather than permanently belonging to the vehicle. An IoT Analytics 2026 industry report says 45% of automakers and suppliers now rank the transition to SDVs as a top strategic priority. The article raises the key question: what happens to unlocked features when the car changes owners.