MEMA, AASA Presents Suppliers’ Viewpoints in SAE International OBDII Security Discussions

WASHINGTON, D.C. and RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. – The Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA), the leading trade association in the mobility industry, and its light vehicle aftermarket division, the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA), joined other industry leaders in Troy, Mich., to address tough issues regarding the security of on-board diagnostics (OBD) access.

MEMA Chief Technology Officer Brian Daugherty represented the viewpoints of light vehicle parts suppliers in both the original equipment and automotive aftermarket industries at the “OBDII Security Workshop” hosted by SAE International on Dec 1. The workshop included OEMs, suppliers, government agencies, and cybersecurity experts. “OEMs, vehicle part manufacturers and automotive aftermarket stakeholders recognize and support OBD cybersecurity efforts while ensuring the necessary vehicle data access for both OEM and aftermarket repair facilities,” Daugherty said.

SAE International is a global association committed to being the ultimate knowledge source for the engineering profession. By uniting over 127,000 engineers and technical experts, we drive knowledge and expertise across a broad spectrum of industries. We act on two priorities: encouraging a lifetime of learning for mobility engineering professionals and setting the standards for industry engineering

Daugherty said that aftermarket OBDII dongles present a potential attack surface for hackers. “Some aftermarket OBDII dongles are equipped with firmware to protect against cybersecurity risks and some are not, but aftermarket channel partners are working diligently so that all devices are protected,” he commented.

Daugherty also noted that the AASA is continuing to work with aftermarket shareholders on a solution that would address future OBD security. “MEMA and AASA are committed to advancing the business interests by working cooperatively with industry partners in addressing the cybersecurity issues raised by advanced vehicle technologies,” he said.

The participating experts will meet again in January to continue the work on solution under the auspices of SAE International.

About MEMA

The Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) and its four specialized divisions comprise the leading international trade association in the fast-changing mobility industry. Representing vehicle suppliers that manufacture and remanufacture components, technologies, and systems for use in passenger cars and heavy trucks, MEMA works to ensure that the marketplace and legislative and regulatory environment support the development and implementation of new technical capabilities transforming the automotive industry, including autonomous vehicles and vehicle connectivity. By directly employing more than 734,000 Americans and generating a total employment impact of 3.6 million jobs, MEMA’s member companies are the largest sector of manufacturing jobs in the U.S. MEMA’s members are represented through four divisions: Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA), Heavy Duty Manufacturers Association (HDMA), Motor & Equipment Remanufacturers Association (MERA) and Original Equipment Suppliers Association (OESA). For more information on how MEMA is leading transformation in the mobility industry, visit www.mema.org.

About AASA

AASA (www.aftermarketsuppliers.org) exclusively serves manufacturers of aftermarket components, tools and equipment, and related products which support 710,000 employees in the United States. AASA is a recognized industry change agent – promoting a collaborative industry environment, providing a forum to address issues and serving as a valued resource for members. AASA is the light vehicle aftermarket division of the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA). “AASA, The Voice for the Automotive Aftermarket Supplier Industry.”