think your newer Audi is hard to service -now-?

[Brett Dikeman]

If you thought your car was getting hard to service now- just wait. 
Auto companies don't appear  to have signed on yet, but the microchip 
industry is having a complete wet dream with regards to "intelligent" 
fasteners.

Fastener is the wrong word- "lockout system" is much better.

"* Service. Microchips embedded in fasteners respond only to 
encrypted signals, restricting access to service procedures. These 
procedures would be stored in fastener control software, ensuring 
installation of authorized replacement parts. A central database 
would retain information on fastener status and maintenance history. 
All data would be accessible instantly to document warranty claims.

Original parts with unique, electronically controlled serial numbers 
could be authenticated from the central database prior to assembly. 
Software also could manage inventory through a central database, as 
well as provide service manuals for access by technicians.

* Customization. Intelligent fasteners could allow easy part 
change-out in aftermarket customization while giving OEMs greater 
control of genuine part"

http://smt.pennnet.com/Articles/Article_Display.cfm?Section=Articles&Subsection=Display&ARTICLE_ID=207838

(originally found on Slashdot, but not exactly the same crowd as Audifans).

I can't see anyone in their right minds buying a car with this technology.

Brett
-- 
"They that give up essential liberty to obtain temporary
safety deserve neither liberty nor safety." - Ben Franklin
http://www.users.cloud9.net/~brett/