Several BYD vehicle owners have reported the absence of internet connection in their cars over the past few weeks, according to AutoPapo through various sources.
The failure is related to the Claro data chip, installed from the factory, and results in the deactivation of brand application features linked to the vehicles, such as monitoring battery charge levels, in addition to preventing software updates via the network.
Dealerships and Customer Service (SAC) have attributed the problem to instability in the operator's network, without providing a defined deadline for resolution.
André De Maria, a mechanical engineer and owner of Autocentro Confiar in Belo Horizonte, known on social media as Tio Dedé, identified the defect in his Sealion 7 26/27 model, which had less than 2,000 km driven. He reported that he followed the instructions contained in the manual and the application without success.
De Maria sought support from the BYD Vitória Motors dealership, located in Nova Lima (MG). There, a technical consultant displayed an internal communication issued by BYD to the network regarding the issue on his cell phone screen. The consumer criticized the situation, stating that if the manufacturer is aware of the problem, it should inform customers through all available channels, including the application, classifying this as 'a lack of respect for consumers and a defect in information.'
He emphasized that the application was operational, but the 4G connection with the vehicle was the point of failure.
In São Luís (MA), the owner of a Dolphin GS, with only 45 days of use, registered the lack of connection on Reclame Aqui since September 18, while the dealership and SAC indicated Claro's network as responsible. In Uberlândia (MG), another owner reported on the same platform that his car had not had internet access for over a week, even with the data package active, and his complaints remained unanswered until the 27th.
In a forum dedicated to owners, a user of the Yuan Plus AWD 26/27 mentioned losing connectivity on September 17, still having 1 GB in the allowance. Another member reported that his Dolphin GS 26/27 was without data, while a Dolphin Plus 24/25 continued to function normally.
Additionally, in August, a customer who purchased a Dolphin GS in Itajaí (SC) had already signaled the absence of chip activation for more than 30 days. BYD suggested updating the multimedia unit, but the case remains unresolved.
André De Maria also expressed support for a Brazilian public system for consulting vehicle defects, comparing it to the model maintained in the United States by the NHTSA, the federal traffic safety agency.
As of the publication of this article, BYD has not provided statements in response to AutoPapo's requests.