Is Uconnect remote start free?
In most cases, Uconnect remote start is not free indefinitely. New vehicles typically include a trial period for Uconnect Services that covers remote start for a limited time, after which a paid subscription is usually required to continue using the feature through the app. Some models also offer a built-in, hardware-based remote start via the key fob that does not require a separate subscription.
How Uconnect Remote Start Works
Uconnect Remote Start refers to two related ways to start your vehicle remotely: through the Uconnect smartphone app (Uconnect Services) and through a built-in remote start feature accessible with the vehicle’s key fob. The app-based capability is tied to an active Uconnect Services subscription, while many trims provide a basic remote start via the key fob without needing the app.
Two ways to access remote start
Many owners encounter both options in modern Stellantis-branded vehicles, with different terms for each path.
- App-based remote start (Uconnect Services): Typically requires an active subscription after any trial period.
- Key fob remote start: Built into many trims and generally does not require a Uconnect Services subscription.
- Trial periods and promotions: New vehicles often come with a limited-time trial of Uconnect Services that can cover remote start during the trial.
- Regional variations: Availability, pricing, and terms can vary by market and model year.
For most buyers, understanding whether their vehicle’s remote start relies on the app (and a subscription) or on the hardware (fob) is crucial for budgeting and usage expectations. The app-based option is the one most likely to require ongoing payments once the trial ends.
What Is Free and What Costs Are Involved
The free status depends on how the vehicle is equipped and whether a trial is active. Here are the common scenarios you may encounter.
Before relying on a list, note that the specifics can vary by model year and region. The following points summarize typical arrangements seen in recent years.
- Free access: Remote start via the key fob is often included with many trims and does not require a Uconnect Services subscription.
- Trial period: New vehicles commonly include a trial of Uconnect Services (often 1 year or more) that covers app-based remote start during the trial.
- Post-trial cost: After the trial ends, continuing use of the app-based remote start generally requires purchasing an active Uconnect Services subscription (pricing varies by market and plan).
- Promo variations: Some promotions or dealer incentives may extend trial access or offer discounted subscriptions for a limited time.
In practice, if you rely on the app-based remote start, you should plan for ongoing costs after any initial trial, while the built-in key fob option can be used without ongoing subscription in many cases.
How to Verify Your Access Status
If you’re unsure whether your vehicle’s remote start is free or requires a subscription, follow these steps to verify your status and options.
- Open the Uconnect app and sign in with your vehicle’s account to check the current services attached to your VIN.
- Navigate to the Services or Subscriptions section to see whether Remote Start is listed as active, expired, or included in a trial.
- Check your vehicle information (VIN, model year) in the app or owner’s manual to determine whether hardware-based remote start is available on your trim level.
- Contact your dealer or Stellantis customer support for confirmation of current terms, pricing, and any regional promotions.
If the app shows an active trial, you may continue using remote start via the app until the trial ends. After expiration, you would typically need to subscribe to Uconnect Services to maintain access.
Summary
For most Uconnect users, remote start is not permanently free when accessed through the mobile app. A trial period is commonly included with new vehicles, after which a paid subscription is usually required to keep using the feature via Uconnect Services. However, a hardware-based remote start accessible with the key fob remains a common free option on many trims. Always verify with your dealer or the Uconnect app for your specific vehicle, model year, and market to understand the exact terms and any current promotions.
Do I need a subscription for Uconnect?
Yes, some advanced Uconnect features require a subscription after an initial trial period, while basic functions like Bluetooth pairing and hands-free calling do not. The specific services that need a subscription are typically found in packages like the SiriusXM Guardian or Uconnect Access, which offer features such as remote start, door locking/unlocking, and over-the-air navigation updates.
Subscription-based features
- SiriusXM Guardian and Uconnect Access: These packages include services like remote vehicle commands (start, lock, unlock, horn), security alerts, and a monthly or annual subscription is required to continue these services after the included trial (usually 6-12 months).
- Navigation Package: While the built-in map will still function, advanced connectivity features like map updates, dynamic range mapping, and traffic services require a subscription to the Navigation Package.
Free basic features
- Bluetooth connectivity: Pairing your smartphone via Bluetooth to the Uconnect system for basic calls and media is free and does not require a subscription.
- Smartphone integration: Using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto with a USB cable is a free feature that lets you use navigation and other apps from your phone on the Uconnect screen.
How to tell what you need
- Check your vehicle's equipment: Some Uconnect systems come with more features than others. Look for the specific package names mentioned above, such as SiriusXM Guardian or Uconnect Access.
- Review your trial information: When you purchase a new vehicle, you receive a trial period for certain connected services. After the trial ends, you must pay to continue them.
- Visit the official Uconnect website: You can manage your services, see your subscription status, and learn about the different packages and their costs on the Uconnect website.
Do you have to pay for Uconnect remote start?
Uconnect Access
For $14.99 a month (or an annual payment of $149.99), you get the following features: 9-1-1 call. Roadside assistance call. Remote vehicle start.
Is there a free version of Uconnect?
No, Uconnect is not completely free; while some services are included with the purchase of a new vehicle, most connected services require a subscription after an initial trial period, which is typically 6 or 12 months. Basic Uconnect functions and the built-in navigation (without online map updates) are usually free, but features like remote start, roadside assistance, Wi-Fi hotspots, and live traffic require a paid subscription after the trial ends.
What's included for free
- Basic Uconnect functions: The core system that allows you to interact with your vehicle's media and settings is included.
- Built-in navigation (with limitations): The basic built-in navigation system will still function, but you won't get features like over-the-air map updates, real-time traffic, or online searches without a subscription.
- Initial trial period: A trial for connected services, often 6 or 12 months, is included with a new vehicle purchase.
- Some safety features: With newer vehicles, certain safety and security services may be included for an extended period, such as 10 years, according to this Jeep forum thread.
What requires a subscription
- Remote Services: Features like remote start, lock/unlock, and vehicle location require a subscription after the trial ends.
- Connected Navigation: To receive over-the-air map updates, real-time traffic, and other advanced navigation features, you must subscribe to the Connected Navigation Package.
- Wi-Fi Hotspot: The in-vehicle 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot is a subscription-based service.
- Assistance and Safety: While some safety features have long trials, others like roadside assistance and SOS calls often require a subscription to continue service after the initial trial.
How do I activate free Uconnect?
To activate free Uconnect, you can enroll in the trial by using the in-vehicle Assist button or by using the in-vehicle "Apps" button to register online. For the in-vehicle method, press the Assist button on your rearview mirror or the Uconnect apps icon on your touchscreen, and then a Uconnect Care agent will assist with the setup. Alternatively, go to the Uconnect Apps icon on the touchscreen, select "Register by Web," enter your email, and follow the link in the email to complete your registration.
Method 1: Use the in-vehicle Assist button
- Press the Assist button on your rearview mirror.
- On the Uconnect touchscreen, select the Uconnect Care icon or the activate button.
- A Uconnect Care agent will guide you through the process to complete the activation.
This video demonstrates how to activate Uconnect services using the in-vehicle Assist button: 58sJeep EuropeYouTube · Aug 3, 2022
Method 2: Register online through the Uconnect system
- Press the Uconnect Apps button on your vehicle's touchscreen.
- Select "Register by Web" or "Activate Services".
- Enter your email address when prompted.
- Check your inbox for an email with a link to continue the registration.
- Follow the link to create an account and set up your profile.
This video shows how to register online through the Uconnect system: 1mKitchener Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAMYouTube · Nov 18, 2023
