The allure of hopping into a pre-warmed (or cooled) car on a frigid winter morning or a scorching summer afternoon is undeniable. Toyota, recognizing this desire, offers remote start capabilities through its convenient mobile app. However, a common question lingers in the minds of Toyota owners and potential buyers alike: Do you have to pay for remote start on the Toyota app? The answer, unfortunately, isn’t a simple yes or no. It’s a bit more nuanced and depends on several factors, including the model year of your Toyota, the specific trim level, and the subscription package you choose.
Understanding Toyota’s Connected Services
To unravel the remote start payment puzzle, we need to delve into the world of Toyota’s Connected Services. These services provide a suite of features that enhance your driving experience, adding convenience, safety, and peace of mind. Remote start is often bundled within these Connected Services packages.
These packages aren’t a one-size-fits-all affair. Toyota offers various tiers, each with its own set of functionalities and associated costs. Understanding these packages is crucial to knowing whether you’ll need to open your wallet to enjoy the convenience of remote start.
The Evolution of Toyota’s Subscription Model
Toyota’s approach to Connected Services has evolved over time. Older models might have different subscription terms than newer ones. In the past, some Toyota vehicles offered a longer complimentary trial period for certain Connected Services, including remote start. However, recent models often have shorter trial periods or require a subscription from the outset to access remote start functionality via the app.
It’s crucial to check the specifics of your vehicle to understand what’s included and for how long. This information is typically available in your vehicle’s owner’s manual or through the Toyota Owners portal online. You can also contact your local Toyota dealership for clarification.
Key Connected Services Packages and Remote Start
Several Connected Services packages are relevant to remote start. Here’s a brief overview of some of the most common ones:
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Remote Connect: This package is directly responsible for enabling remote start functionality through the Toyota app. It allows you to start, lock, and unlock your doors, check vehicle status, and even locate your car in a parking lot, all from your smartphone. Without an active Remote Connect subscription, remote start via the app won’t be possible.
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Safety Connect: While primarily focused on safety features such as automatic collision notification, emergency assistance, and stolen vehicle locator, Safety Connect can indirectly impact remote start in certain scenarios. For example, if your vehicle is stolen, Safety Connect can assist in locating it, and Remote Connect can be used to disable the engine remotely (if equipped).
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Service Connect: This package keeps you informed about your vehicle’s health with maintenance alerts, vehicle health reports, and service reminders. It doesn’t directly affect remote start functionality.
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Drive Connect: Offered in newer models, Drive Connect provides cloud navigation and intelligent assistant features. While not directly related to Remote Start, it represents the overall shift towards connected car technology.
These packages are often bundled, and Toyota frequently offers promotions or special pricing for subscribing to multiple services.
Digging Deeper: Model Year and Trim Level Matters
The model year of your Toyota significantly influences whether you’ll need to pay for remote start. Newer models are more likely to require a subscription for Remote Connect to enable remote start via the app. Older models might have had longer trial periods or even included remote start as a standard feature.
Similarly, the trim level plays a role. Higher trim levels often include more features as standard, potentially including a longer trial period for Remote Connect or even ongoing access to remote start. Lower trim levels might require an upgrade or subscription to access this functionality.
How to Determine if Your Toyota Requires a Subscription
Several avenues can help you determine if your Toyota requires a subscription for remote start:
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Check Your Toyota Account: Log into your Toyota Owners account online or through the Toyota app. The account dashboard should display your active subscriptions and their expiration dates.
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Review Your Vehicle’s Paperwork: Refer to your vehicle’s purchase agreement or owner’s manual. These documents often outline the included Connected Services and their trial periods.
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Contact Your Toyota Dealership: The most direct approach is to contact your local Toyota dealership. They can access your vehicle’s information and provide accurate details about your Connected Services subscriptions.
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The Toyota App Itself: The Toyota app will typically indicate whether remote start is active, in trial, or requires a subscription.
Understanding Trial Periods and Subscription Costs
Toyota typically offers a trial period for Remote Connect and other Connected Services when you purchase a new vehicle. The length of this trial period varies depending on the model year and trim level. Once the trial period expires, you’ll need to subscribe to Remote Connect to continue using remote start via the app.
The cost of a Remote Connect subscription also varies. Toyota offers different subscription plans, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs and budget. Prices can range from monthly to annual subscriptions, and discounts are often available for longer-term commitments. It’s always best to check the current pricing on Toyota’s website or through the Toyota app.
Alternative Remote Start Options
Even if you don’t want to pay for a Remote Connect subscription, you might still have alternative remote start options:
Key Fob Remote Start
Many Toyota vehicles come equipped with remote start functionality built into the key fob. This allows you to start your car by pressing a sequence of buttons on the key fob, without needing the Toyota app or a subscription. However, the range of key fob remote start is typically limited compared to app-based remote start.
Aftermarket Remote Start Systems
If you’re unwilling to pay for a subscription and your key fob doesn’t offer remote start, you could consider installing an aftermarket remote start system. These systems are installed by professional technicians and offer similar functionality to the Toyota app, allowing you to start your car remotely using a separate key fob or even a third-party mobile app. However, installing an aftermarket system can void your vehicle’s warranty, so it’s essential to research reputable installers and choose a system compatible with your Toyota.
Considerations When Choosing an Alternative
Before opting for an alternative remote start solution, carefully weigh the pros and cons. Key fob remote start offers convenience without a subscription fee, but it has limited range. Aftermarket systems provide greater flexibility but can be costly to install and may impact your vehicle’s warranty. Evaluating your needs and budget is essential to making the right choice.
The Future of Connected Car Services
The automotive industry is rapidly evolving, and connected car services are becoming increasingly prevalent. As technology advances, we can expect to see more sophisticated features and more integrated experiences. Toyota, like other automakers, is constantly innovating in this space, so it’s likely that its Connected Services offerings will continue to evolve.
The Shift Towards Subscription-Based Models
The trend towards subscription-based models in the automotive industry is undeniable. Automakers are increasingly relying on subscription services to generate recurring revenue and provide ongoing value to customers. This shift has sparked debate among consumers, with some appreciating the added convenience and features while others lament the ongoing costs.
The Benefits of Connected Services
Despite the subscription fees, Connected Services offer numerous benefits. They enhance safety with features like automatic collision notification and stolen vehicle locator. They provide convenience with remote start, door locking/unlocking, and vehicle status monitoring. They improve the overall driving experience with features like real-time traffic updates and cloud-based navigation.
Making an Informed Decision
Ultimately, the decision of whether to pay for remote start on the Toyota app is a personal one. It depends on your individual needs, budget, and priorities. By understanding the different Connected Services packages, trial periods, subscription costs, and alternative options, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your driving lifestyle. Remember to always check the specifics related to your car’s model and trim before making a decision.
Do you always have to pay for remote start through the Toyota app?
Generally, yes, after a trial period. Toyota’s remote start feature via the Toyota app is typically subscription-based. While new Toyota vehicles often include a trial period (varying in length from a few months to several years depending on the model and package), accessing remote start functionalities after this trial requires a paid subscription to Toyota’s Remote Connect services.
The specific cost and duration of the subscription can vary. It’s essential to check your vehicle’s documentation, the Toyota app itself, or contact your local Toyota dealership to understand the exact terms and conditions applicable to your specific vehicle. These subscriptions often come in monthly or annual options, allowing you to choose a plan that best fits your needs and budget.
What happens when the trial period for remote start on the Toyota app expires?
Upon expiration of the trial period, the remote start feature within the Toyota app will cease to function unless you subscribe to a paid Remote Connect plan. You’ll likely receive notifications within the app or via email reminding you of the upcoming expiration date and prompting you to subscribe to continue using the service.
Without a subscription, attempting to use the remote start function will result in an error message or a prompt to subscribe. The remote start functionality becomes inactive until a valid subscription is purchased and linked to your Toyota account. This applies specifically to remote start controlled via the app; other remote start methods, if available on your vehicle (like the key fob), might continue to function independently.
Are there alternative ways to remotely start my Toyota without paying for the app subscription?
Yes, some Toyota vehicles offer remote start functionality through the physical key fob. This feature often works independently of the Toyota app subscription. Check your owner’s manual to determine if your vehicle is equipped with key fob-based remote start and how to activate it.
Additionally, some aftermarket remote start systems can be installed in Toyota vehicles. These systems operate independently of the Toyota app and its associated subscription fees. However, consider researching reputable brands and professional installation to ensure compatibility and proper functionality with your vehicle’s existing systems. Be mindful of any potential warranty implications when installing aftermarket systems.
How much does the Toyota Remote Connect subscription typically cost?
The cost of Toyota’s Remote Connect subscription varies depending on the vehicle model year, trim level, and the specific package you choose. Toyota frequently updates its subscription packages and pricing, so it’s best to check the latest information directly through the Toyota app or the Toyota Owners website.
Typically, you can expect to find monthly and annual subscription options. Prices generally range from around \$8 to \$15 per month, or a discounted rate for an annual subscription. Keep an eye out for promotional offers or bundled packages that include other connected services beyond just remote start, as these may provide better value.
What other features come with the Toyota Remote Connect subscription besides remote start?
Beyond remote start, the Toyota Remote Connect subscription typically includes several other useful features accessible through the Toyota app. These features often enhance convenience and provide added control over your vehicle from a distance.
Common features include remote door locking/unlocking, vehicle health reports, vehicle status alerts (such as door ajar or low fuel), and the ability to locate your parked vehicle. Some higher-tier Remote Connect packages may also include features like guest driver settings, allowing you to monitor driving habits when someone else is using your car, and stolen vehicle locator, adding an extra layer of security.
Is there a way to get remote start for free on my Toyota?
The only way to obtain remote start for free directly from Toyota is during the initial trial period offered with new vehicles. Once this trial expires, a paid subscription to Remote Connect is typically required to continue using the app-based remote start feature.
While there isn’t a legitimate way to bypass the subscription if you want to use the Toyota app, exploring alternative remote start methods such as the key fob (if equipped) or considering a compatible aftermarket remote start system installed by a professional could provide remote start capabilities without recurring subscription fees. Ensure any aftermarket solution is compatible and doesn’t void your vehicle’s warranty.
Does using the Toyota Remote Connect subscription affect my car’s battery?
Using the Toyota Remote Connect subscription, including remote start, can have a minimal impact on your car’s battery. The vehicle’s telematics system remains active to maintain communication with the Toyota app, which draws a small amount of power even when the car is turned off.
However, this power draw is generally negligible and should not significantly drain a healthy car battery. If you experience frequent battery issues, it’s more likely due to other factors such as a failing battery, parasitic drain from aftermarket accessories, or infrequent use of the vehicle. Consider having your battery tested and addressing any underlying issues if you notice excessive battery drain.