Jaguar X Type Cruise Control Recall for Software that Will Not Disengage

Many vintage car buffs have never felt comfortable with the idea that a computer controls so much of what happens in modern cars and this Jaguar recall will only reinforce their skepticism. It seems some Jaguar X-Types, produced between 2006 and 2010, have a software fault that will not allow the cruise control to be turned off. Stepping on the brake pedal or pushing the off button has no effect. The only way to disengage the cruise control is to turn off the ignition, a less than optimal solution, at best, since cruise is normally on when traveling at highway speeds.

The problem lies with engine management control software developed in-house by Jaguar. The problematic software is only installed on diesel engine X-Types, which were all produced between 2006 and 2010.

It doesn’t look like this affects Jaguars sold in the US since I don’t believe this model is available here, small comfort to those of us suspicious of handing over control to computers every time we turn on the ignition and drive off.

When all controls are mechanical, electrical or hydraulic, you don’t ever have to wonder who’s making the decisions or whether or not malfunctions can be fixed. While computers certainly allow us to fine tune engine operation for more power and efficiency and they make ABS and traction control possible along with a growing list of features every day, some of us would prefer to be in charge without worrying about a recalcitrant computer questioning our authority. When was it that Skynet becomes self aware?

Link: Computerworld UK