I recently posted a TikTok video about the 2025 Toyota Camry and the two things I didn’t like – one of which is that subscription fees will kick in after a free trial to use features like traffic jam assist and real-time traffic. The video exploded, and people seemed surprised that new cars have subscription fees after spending tens of thousands of dollars on the initial purchase.
So, I’m here to tell you, yes, your new car will likely offer features for a fee. No, you don’t have to subscribe, but the automakers are banking (literally) on the fact that you’ll become addicted to the feature and shell out $15 to $40 per month to keep those features.
So, here’s a look at some of the more popular features with free trials that turn in to subscriptions.
Remote start subscription fees?
A lot of the bruhaha about subscription fees started when Toyota took the remote start button off its key fob and made it an app-only feature. Remote start is a part of the “Remote Connect” package included in the “Go Anywhere” subscription, which is $15 per month. Mazda is another automaker that doesn’t have the remote start button on its fob. You’ll get the connected services on your MyMazda app for free for three years, and then it’s a monthly or annual fee. I couldn’t find a plan outline for Mazda but saw a post on a CX-30 forum that stated a two-year subscription fee would be $425.
While a lot of automakers still have the remote-start button on their fobs, it means you have to essentially be within sight of your vehicle to get it started. If you want to start warming your car on a chilly day from the confines of your bed, it’ll be on the app, and there’s likely a fee for that.
Hands-free driving is a double whammy
Hands-free driving tech is an interesting one because the automaker kind of charges you twice for these features. Take, for instance, the new Chevrolet Traverse. You can get Super Cruise on the LT trim ($43,395) as a part of a $3,280 package – so you’re paying for the hardware. Then, after a three-year trial, if you want to keep this hands-free capability, you’ll have to pay $25 per month. The Ford F-150 comes with Blue Cruise equipped starting at the XLT trim ($47,730), but you only get 90 days free, then it’s $75 per month or $800 per year to keep it. Gulp. Ram 1500 got the hands-free driving assist in 2025, but it’s only available starting at the Limited trim ($75,450), and then you still need to add a $4,415 package to get it as well as pay for the Ram Connect Assistance and Navigation Package for $24.98 per month or $274.78 per year after a three-month trial.
Google built-in and real-time traffic aren’t free
One of the newest trends we’re seeing is automakers adopting the Android Automotive Operating System, or as automakers like to call it “Google Built-In” (pictured on the featured image above in the 2024 GMC Acadia). This means you have access to the Google Play Store, Assistant, Maps and other apps by logging into your personal Google account in the vehicle. This gives you real-time traffic updates, voice-activated HVAC controls and other great amenities. But, after a free trial, it is also subject to a fee. And, here’s the nefarious thing about this one: No one seems to know what the fees will be yet. Volvo just started putting it in vehicles and offers a three-year trial. General Motors has adopted it as well, and gives you a three-year trial in gas vehicles and an eight-year trial in EVs. But neither has named a fee for the subscription when the trials are up. To add insult to injury, GM is removing Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from its EVs, so if you don’t ante up for the subscription, you won’t have map or navigation access after eight years.
If you don’t have Google built-in, it’s highly likely that the native system in the vehicle offers some kind of real-time traffic, and yep, there’s a fee for that. Stellantis vehicles (Jeep, Ram, Alfa Romeo, Dodge, Chrysler, Fiat), for example, charges $9.99 monthly or $109.89 per year for the connected navigation plan. Going back to Toyota, the connected navigation is included in its $15 per month “Go Anywhere” plan.
Digital key is usually extra
One of the newer features you’re starting to see come online with cars is the idea that your phone can be used as the key. Most automakers are simply calling it Digital Key but we’ve also seen Phone as Key used. The idea is that you can ditch your key fob and through Bluetooth connectivity, your vehicle will sense your phone and allow you to unlock and start it simply by having your phone on your person. It also allows you to transfer a key via email or text message to someone else.
But, yeah, most automakers roll this into some kind of a connected services subscription plan. Toyota, for example includes this as a part of the Remote Connect package, which starts at $15 per month. Interestingly, Digital Key on Hyundai, Kia and Genesis vehicles is free for first owners, but a fee will be assigned to second-hand owners.
WiFi hot spots always add fees
And even if some of the features come for free for the life of the vehicle, there’s a huge caveat: You’ll need a WiFi connection to the vehicle to make them work. So, even if you escape the app or feature fee, you’re still on the hook for something.
The bottom line
This is the reality of living in a tech-forward society. People are used to paying a subscription to stream videos and music, to get exercise apps and meditation guidance. Automakers are betting you’ll pay for convenience in cars, too. If you are outraged at the idea, don’t pay the fees. But, unfortunately, you’ll be left behind in the tech arena.
So, the moral of the story: If you are buying a new car in 2024, ask about subscription fees and free trials before you buy. If the dealer is cagey or doesn’t have an answer, that’s a red flag. And if the subscription fees are TBD, buyer really beware because you truly have no idea what you’ll be on the line for.
