Automakers Delivering Cars With “Incomplete” Functions Due to Chip Shortage

This writer remembers a time when cars were more mechanical than electronic but all cars nowadays are incredibly reliant on electronic components. From fuel injection to safety systems, most functions are aided by electronics. But now, with no end in sight for the global chip shortage, automakers have been forced to lower production, delay deliveries or keep half-finished vehicles in their stockyard while waiting for the component to be restocked.

But there is only so much waiting customers (and businesses) can take, so carmakers are now resorting to shipping “unfinished” vehicles with one or two fewer features or in some cases, more.

General Motors, for instance, has shipped cars without rear parking sensors, HD radio, and wireless charging for phones, while on their big trucks, the fuel-saving module is gone. BMW also cut wireless phone charging, satellite radio and touchscreen functionality from their central display in a few of their models, which means those affected vehicles do not have access to the backup assistant feature. Mercedes also removed their wireless phone charging pads, hands-free rear access systems and some audio systems.

Some unlucky new Tesla owners received their EV without USB ports and some Cadillac models are missing the Super Cruise (hands-free driving assist). Those who got a new Chevrolet car might be missing heated steering and seats. Nissan dumped their navigation systems in their less popular models. And for a time, new Porsche owners were not able to have their 18-way adjustable seat.

After holding out as long as possible, Ford also recently conceded and will be shipping cars without the full range of features, although which ones will be dropped have not been revealed yet.

These are, of course, “luxury” features that are, in other words, unnecessary but really nice-to-have. With prices of cars now at a high, it’s understandable that customers are miffed that they are paying more but getting less. Automakers have either offered credit that is commensurate with the value of the missing feature or promised that customers can have the feature added in later at their dealership when the part becomes available. But that could be months or more than a year from now, and that’s too long to go without being able to adjust our seat 18 ways.