What is the difference between Uconnect and Uconnect Access?
Uconnect is the in-car infotainment system, while Uconnect Access was the cloud-based remote-telematics service that let you interact with your vehicle from a smartphone. In recent years, remote features have been rebranded and evolved into what many manufacturers now call Uconnect Services, which may require a subscription.
What Uconnect is
The Uconnect system is the vehicle’s built-in cockpit for media, navigation, and connectivity. It combines a touchscreen interface with features such as Bluetooth hands-free calling, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), satellite radio, navigation, and app access. Uconnect is the software and hardware that runs on the car’s infotainment platform, and it can receive updates over the air on newer models.
What Uconnect Access was
Uconnect Access was the cloud-connected telematics component that linked the car to a mobile app and remote services. It relied on the car’s cellular modem to communicate with your phone and offered remote functions such as engine start/stop, door lock/unlock, vehicle location, remote climate control, and basic vehicle health reports. Availability varied by model year and market, and many features required a service subscription after any initial trial period. Over time, some hardware relied on older networks (notably 3G), which have been retired in many regions.
Key remote capabilities typically associated with Uconnect Access included:
- Remote engine start/stop
- Remote door lock/unlock and trunk release
- Vehicle location and trip history
- Remote climate control to precondition the cabin
- Vehicle health reports and diagnostic information
- Account-based access via the Uconnect/My Uconnect app
Note: These remote features often required an active subscription after a trial period, and the availability could depend on the vehicle’s hardware and regional service networks.
Uconnect Services: the modern evolution
Today’s remote features are generally marketed under Uconnect Services, a cloud-connected telematics suite that continues to enable remote interaction with the vehicle via the Uconnect app and in-vehicle interface. This branding reflects an ongoing expansion of connected services, with newer vehicles typically equipped with LTE connectivity and ongoing software updates. Access to these services usually depends on an active subscription, though many new vehicles include a complimentary trial period at purchase.
Common features associated with current Uconnect Services include:
- Remote start/stop and remote lock/unlock
- Find my vehicle and vehicle location history
- Remote climate preconditioning
- Vehicle health, maintenance alerts, and diagnostic information
- Status checks such as fuel level and tire pressure
- In-vehicle apps and connected services via the Uconnect app
As with any connected service, the availability and pricing can vary by model year, market, and hardware generation. A subset of features may be free during a trial, with ongoing access requiring a subscription and compatible cellular coverage.
How to tell which service you have
If you’re trying to determine whether your vehicle uses Uconnect Access or Uconnect Services, start with these steps: check your vehicle’s owner’s manual or the Uconnect section of the infotainment system, look in the Uconnect or My Uconnect app for account and subscription status, and contact your dealer with your VIN. Be aware that older models relying on 3G networks may have limited or discontinued remote features, while newer vehicles typically operate over LTE with ongoing Uconnect Services support.
Summary
Uconnect is the built-in infotainment platform that powers the vehicle’s display, navigation, and media, while Uconnect Access was the cloud-based remote-telematics service that let you control and monitor the car remotely. In recent years, remote features have shifted to the Uconnect Services branding, with ongoing updates and subscriptions required for full access on many models. For current capabilities, check your vehicle’s year, model, and hardware, along with your subscription status through the Uconnect app or dealer.
Do you have to pay for Uconnect access?
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.
What does Uconnect Access do?
Uconnect is an in-vehicle connectivity platform found in Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, RAM, and FIAT vehicles that provides access to remote services and features. It allows you to control certain functions from your smartphone, get navigation and entertainment, and use safety features like roadside assistance and 911 calls. Some connected services, often called Uconnect Access, may require a subscription to use.
Key features
- Remote access: Use the Uconnect app to lock or unlock doors, start the engine, and activate the horn and lights from a distance.
- Vehicle location: Use the app to find your vehicle in a crowded parking lot.
- Safety and security: Includes emergency calls to a 911 operator, SOS calls, and assistance with stolen vehicles.
- Navigation: Provides integrated, turn-by-turn directions with 2D and 3D maps.
- Hands-free calling: Connect your phone to make and receive calls hands-free.
- Entertainment: Offers streaming music through apps like Pandora, iHeartRadio, and Slacker Radio.
- Wi-Fi hotspot: Some models include an integrated Wi-Fi hotspot for a subscription fee.
How to get started
- Register your vehicle with the Uconnect system.
- Download the Uconnect app from the App Store or Google Play.
- Sign in to the app using the username and password you created during registration.
How much is the Uconnect access app?
The Uconnect App for remote services has a cost, but the basic Uconnect infotainment system itself is included with the vehicle purchase. The remote services subscription, which requires a paid plan, costs approximately $14.99 per month or $164.89 per year after the initial free trial, according to Uconnect and Juneks Chrysler Jeep .... There are various packages with different features at different price points, such as the "Convenience + Security Package" which is more expensive.
Uconnect infotainment system
- Cost: Included with the purchase of a new vehicle.
- Functionality: Provides features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and control of the vehicle's built-in navigation.
- The app: The basic app that connects to this system is free to download.
Uconnect remote services app
- Cost: Subscription-based after a free trial (typically 6 or 12 months).
- Monthly plan: Approximately $14.99 per month (plus taxes).
- Annual plan: Approximately $164.89 per year (plus taxes).
- Functionality: Includes remote start, vehicle locator, and other remote control features via a smartphone app.
- Packages: Other packages are available with different features and costs, such as the Convenience + Security Package.
What has replaced Uconnect?
A Uconnect replacement can mean either replacing the software, which is being done by replacing the Uconnect app with brand-specific vehicle apps, or replacing the hardware, typically the 8.4-inch touchscreen, which is a common DIY repair. Hardware replacements for the Uconnect touchscreen are widely available on sites like Amazon.com and eBay, with many aftermarket options offering features like a gel-free, matte finish, and easy installation.
This video demonstrates how to replace the Uconnect touch screen on a Dodge Charger: 57sDown South AdventuresYouTube · May 1, 2025
Hardware replacement (touchscreen)
- Purchase a replacement: You can find replacement 8.4-inch Uconnect touchscreens on sites like Amazon.com and eBay.
- Choose the right part: Look for a replacement screen designed for your specific vehicle make, model, and year. Many listings specify compatibility and the original part number (e.g., #LA084X01).
- Consider upgrades: Some aftermarket screens are described as being an upgrade over the original, with improved features like a gel-free design (to prevent delamination) or a matte, anti-glare finish.
- Perform the installation: Many replacement kits are designed for DIY installation and come with video guides and necessary tools like a pry bar.
- Tools needed: You will need a pry bar and a small screwdriver. A 12-volt impact driver can speed up the process but is not required.
- Important tip: It is recommended to purchase a full LCD screen assembly instead of just the digitizer (the top glass) because the two are often bonded, and attempting to separate them can damage the display.
Software replacement (app)
- The Uconnect app has been replaced: The original Uconnect app is being replaced by individual vehicle brand apps for a more tailored experience.
- Download the correct app: Download the app for your specific vehicle (e.g., the Chrysler App, Dodge App, or Jeep® App) to access its connectivity features.
