Does Toyota have a system like Onstar?
Yes. Toyota offers telematics and emergency-response services that are similar in purpose to OnStar, mainly through Safety Connect and Remote Connect, with regional equivalents such as G-Link/G-Book in Japan and T-Connect in other markets.
In more detail, these services provide emergency assistance, vehicle tracking, remote-control features, and smartphone app access. Availability and specifics vary by market, model, and trim level, and some features may require a paid subscription after any trial period.
What Toyota's connected services include
Below is a concise overview of the core features that resemble OnStar's offerings.
- Safety Connect: 24/7 emergency assistance, Automatic Collision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Locator, and Roadside Assistance where available.
- Remote Connect: Remote engine start/stop, door unlock/lock, climate control, and vehicle status checks via the Toyota app.
- App-based access: The Toyota Owner/Toyota App centralizes access to these features and can provide vehicle health and maintenance alerts where supported.
Availability and feature sets vary by market and model, and some services require a paid subscription beyond any initial trial period.
Regional variations and naming
Japan: G-Link / G-Book
In Japan, Toyota’s telematics is marketed under G-Link (often integrated with G-Book). The system provides emergency assistance, navigation support, remote services, and vehicle data access through compatible mobile devices and the Toyota network. It operates with local mobile networks and dealer support.
Europe and other markets: T-Connect / Toyota Connected Services
In Europe and many other regions, Toyota uses T-Connect or the broader Toyota Connected Services platform. These offerings typically include emergency calls (often aligned with EU eCall regulations), remote services, vehicle status, and location features. Availability and pricing vary by country, model, and trim.
How to access these services and the costs
To use these services, you generally need a compatible Toyota vehicle equipped with Safety Connect and/or Remote Connect, an active subscription after any trial period, and the Toyota app installed on a smartphone. Many models include a trial period with Safety Connect and Remote Connect, after which customers may subscribe for ongoing access. Pricing and terms differ by market and service level.
Summary
Toyota offers OnStar-like telematics through its Safety Connect and Remote Connect systems, supplemented by region-specific platforms such as G-Link/G-Book in Japan and T-Connect in other markets. While the core idea—emergency support, vehicle tracking, and remote controls—mirrors OnStar, the exact features, availability, and pricing vary by country, vehicle, and subscription plan.
How much does Toyota Drive Connect cost?
Toyota also offers three connected service plan bundles that cater to differing needs. All three options include Remote Connect and one or more additional services: Music Lover – Remote Connect + Integrated Streaming $15/month. Go Anywhere – Remote Connect + Drive Connect $15/month.
Does Toyota have an app to start your car?
Yes, Toyota has an app called the Toyota App that can be used to start your car remotely through the Remote Connect feature. You must have a compatible vehicle with an active subscription to use it, and the process involves downloading the app, linking your vehicle's information, and using the "Start Engine" button within the app.
How to use the Toyota app to remote start your car
- Download the app: Get the Toyota App from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
- Link your vehicle: Follow the app's instructions to register your vehicle by entering the VIN or other required information.
- Enroll in a plan: Remote start is part of the Remote Connect feature, which is included with a subscription. You can enroll in a trial or paid subscription through the app.
- Start the engine: Open the app and tap the "Start Engine" button to begin the remote start sequence.
- Wait for the timer: The vehicle will run for up to 10 minutes before shutting off automatically.
Important considerations
- Compatibility: Not all models or trim levels are compatible with remote start. It is not available on models with manual transmissions or plug-in hybrid/battery electric vehicles.
- Safety: Ensure it is safe and legal to remote start your car in your location. Make sure the vehicle is in a safe and well-ventilated area.
- Requirements: Your vehicle must be closed and locked for the remote start to work. A strong Wi-Fi or cellular connection is also necessary.
Does Toyota have something like OnStar?
Yes, Toyota's equivalent to OnStar is Safety Connect, which provides services like automatic collision notification, emergency assistance, enhanced roadside assistance, and a stolen vehicle locator. These features are part of a larger suite of "Connected Services" available on select new Toyota models, often with a complimentary trial period, according to Toyota and this YouTube video.
Key features of Toyota's Safety Connect
- Emergency Assistance Button: Connects you to a 24/7 response center to dispatch emergency services.
- Automatic Collision Notification: Notifies the response center if your airbags deploy or a severe rear-end collision occurs, so they can automatically contact emergency services if needed.
- Enhanced Roadside Assistance: Provides 24/7 access to roadside assistance with the press of a button.
- Stolen Vehicle Locator: Helps authorities locate a stolen vehicle using GPS technology.
How it compares to OnStar
- Similar functionality: Safety Connect offers the same core safety and emergency features as OnStar.
- Trial periods: Toyota offers a free trial with new vehicles, and some newer models come with a 10-year trial for Safety Connect, which is a longer period than typical OnStar offerings, notes this YouTube video.
- Subscription cost: After the trial ends, you can retain the service for a fee.
Other connected services
In addition to Safety Connect, Toyota offers other Connected Services:
- Service Connect: Provides vehicle health reports and maintenance reminders.
- Remote Connect: Allows you to control your vehicle from your smartphone, such as starting the engine remotely.
- Drive Connect: Includes features like Cloud Navigation and an Intelligent Assistant, according to this YouTube video.
Does Toyota put tracking devices on cars?
Mid-Range Brands. Toyota's SafetyConnect suite includes GPS-enabled emergency assistance, a stolen vehicle locator, roadside assistance, and a collision notification system that calls for help after accidents.
