Hey Subaru enthusiasts! Let's dive into everything you need to know about Subaru Connected Services, focusing on the costs involved and whether it's a worthwhile investment for your ride. We’ll break down the subscription plans, features, and overall value to help you make an informed decision. So, buckle up and let's get started!

What are Subaru Connected Services?

First off, what exactly are Subaru Connected Services? These are a suite of safety, security, and convenience features designed to enhance your driving experience and provide peace of mind. Think of it as a smart assistant for your car, offering everything from automatic collision notification to remote vehicle controls.

Subaru Connected Services bring a new level of interaction between you and your vehicle. They leverage technology to keep you connected, informed, and secure. These services generally rely on a cellular connection embedded within your Subaru, enabling features that go beyond the standard offerings of your car's infotainment system. The primary goal is to provide added safety, convenience, and peace of mind. For instance, in the event of a collision, the system can automatically notify emergency services, providing critical location information to first responders. This feature alone can be a lifesaver, reducing response times and ensuring help arrives promptly.

Beyond emergency assistance, these services offer a range of features designed to make your daily driving experience more convenient. Remote start functionality allows you to warm up your car on cold mornings or cool it down on hot days before you even step inside. Remote lock and unlock features can be a lifesaver when you're not sure if you remembered to lock your doors, or when you need to grant access to someone without physically handing over your keys. Vehicle health reports provide valuable insights into your car's condition, alerting you to potential maintenance needs before they become major issues. These reports can help you stay on top of routine maintenance, extending the life of your vehicle and preventing costly repairs down the road. The convenience of having these features at your fingertips, accessible through a smartphone app, adds a layer of ease and control to your car ownership experience.

Moreover, Subaru Connected Services often include features that enhance security and deter theft. Stolen Vehicle Recovery services can assist law enforcement in locating and recovering your vehicle if it is stolen. The system uses GPS technology to track the vehicle's location, providing real-time updates to the authorities. This can significantly increase the chances of recovering your vehicle and bringing the perpetrators to justice. Geo-fencing capabilities allow you to set virtual boundaries and receive alerts if your vehicle enters or exits these areas. This can be particularly useful for parents who want to monitor their teenage drivers or for businesses that need to track their fleet vehicles. The combination of safety, convenience, and security features makes Subaru Connected Services a comprehensive solution for modern drivers.

Breaking Down the Costs

Alright, let's get down to brass tacks: how much does all this cost? Subaru Connected Services typically come with a trial period, after which you'll need to subscribe to keep the features active. Here’s a general idea of what you can expect:

• Initial Trial Period: Many new Subarus come with a complimentary trial period, often lasting a few months to a year. This gives you a chance to test out the features and see if they fit your needs.
• Subscription Tiers: Subaru usually offers different subscription tiers, each with its own set of features and price point. The more features you want, the higher the cost.
• Basic Plan: A basic plan might include features like automatic collision notification, SOS emergency assistance, and vehicle health reports. This is often the most affordable option.
• Higher-Tier Plans: More comprehensive plans can include features like remote start, remote lock/unlock, stolen vehicle recovery, and concierge services. These plans come at a higher monthly or annual cost.

Understanding the Costs associated with Subaru Connected Services involves looking at the various subscription packages available and what each one offers. Subaru typically structures its connected services into different tiers, each designed to cater to different needs and budgets. The base package usually includes essential safety and security features, such as automatic collision notification, SOS emergency assistance, and maintenance notifications. This package is designed to provide peace of mind by ensuring that help is automatically summoned in the event of an accident and that you are kept informed about your vehicle's health. The cost of this basic package is relatively low, making it an accessible option for most Subaru owners who prioritize safety and security.

Moving up the tiers, you'll find packages that include more advanced features, such as remote start, remote lock/unlock, and vehicle location services. These features add a layer of convenience to your daily driving experience, allowing you to control certain aspects of your vehicle from your smartphone. Remote start is particularly useful in extreme weather conditions, allowing you to warm up or cool down your car before you get in. Remote lock/unlock can be a lifesaver if you're not sure whether you locked your doors or if you need to grant access to someone remotely. Vehicle location services can help you find your car in a crowded parking lot or track its whereabouts in case of theft. These mid-tier packages offer a good balance of safety, security, and convenience, making them a popular choice among Subaru owners. The cost is higher than the base package, but the added features can be well worth it for those who value convenience and control.

At the top end, Subaru offers premium packages that include all the available features, such as concierge services, enhanced roadside assistance, and advanced security features. Concierge services can assist with tasks such as making restaurant reservations or booking hotel accommodations, adding a touch of luxury to your driving experience. Enhanced roadside assistance provides more comprehensive coverage in the event of a breakdown, ensuring that you're never stranded on the side of the road. Advanced security features offer additional protection against theft and unauthorized access. These premium packages are the most expensive option, but they provide the ultimate in safety, convenience, and peace of mind. The cost may be prohibitive for some, but for those who want the full suite of connected services, it can be a worthwhile investment.

Keep in mind that pricing can vary depending on your Subaru model and location. It's always best to check with your local Subaru dealer or the official Subaru Connected Services website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Is It Worth the Cost?

Now for the million-dollar question: Is Subaru Connected Services worth the cost? The answer really depends on your individual needs and priorities. Let's weigh the pros and cons:

Pros:

• Enhanced Safety: Automatic collision notification and SOS emergency assistance can be lifesavers in critical situations.
• Convenience: Remote start, lock/unlock, and vehicle status reports add convenience to your daily routine.
• Security: Stolen vehicle recovery and security alerts provide added peace of mind.
• Vehicle Health: Maintenance notifications help you stay on top of your car's needs, potentially preventing costly repairs.

Cons:

• Ongoing Cost: Subscription fees can add up over time.
• Feature Overlap: Some features might overlap with what's already offered by your smartphone or other car systems.
• Dependence on Connectivity: The services rely on a cellular connection, which may not be reliable in all areas.

Assessing the Value of Subaru Connected Services involves carefully considering your personal driving habits, needs, and priorities. For some drivers, the safety and security features alone may be worth the cost of the subscription. The peace of mind that comes from knowing that help will be automatically summoned in the event of a collision can be invaluable, especially for those who frequently drive in remote areas or during inclement weather. Similarly, the ability to track and recover your vehicle if it is stolen can provide significant financial and emotional relief. If you prioritize safety and security above all else, then Subaru Connected Services may be a worthwhile investment, regardless of the cost.

On the other hand, if you primarily drive in urban areas with reliable cell service and have a comprehensive insurance policy that covers theft and accidents, then the added benefits of Subaru Connected Services may not be as compelling. You may already have access to similar features through your smartphone or other car systems, such as navigation, roadside assistance, and vehicle health monitoring. In this case, the cost of the subscription may outweigh the benefits, and you may be better off relying on these existing resources. It's important to carefully evaluate the features offered by Subaru Connected Services and determine whether they provide enough added value to justify the ongoing cost.

Moreover, consider the convenience features offered by Subaru Connected Services, such as remote start, remote lock/unlock, and concierge services. If you live in an area with extreme weather conditions, the ability to remotely start your car to warm it up or cool it down can be a significant convenience. Similarly, if you frequently forget to lock your doors or need assistance with tasks such as making restaurant reservations, these features can save you time and effort. However, if you rarely use these features or find that they are easily replicated through other means, then they may not be worth the additional cost. Ultimately, the value of Subaru Connected Services depends on how much you rely on these features and how much you are willing to pay for the added convenience and peace of mind they provide.

To make the best decision, think about your driving habits, where you live, and what features are most important to you. If you value safety, security, and convenience, and you're willing to pay for it, Subaru Connected Services can be a great addition to your Subaru experience. If you're on a tight budget or don't see the need for these extra features, you might be better off skipping it.

How to Subscribe and Manage Your Services

Okay, so you've decided that Subaru Connected Services is right for you. How do you actually subscribe and manage your account? Here's a quick rundown:

1. Visit the Subaru Connected Services Website: Head to the official Subaru Connected Services website.
2. Create an Account or Log In: If you're a new user, you'll need to create an account. If you already have one, just log in.
3. Enter Your Vehicle Information: You'll need to provide your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to link your car to your account.
4. Choose a Subscription Plan: Browse the available subscription plans and select the one that best fits your needs and budget.
5. Provide Payment Information: Enter your payment details to activate your subscription.
6. Download the App: Download the Subaru app to your smartphone to access and manage your connected services.

Managing Your Subscription is straightforward through the Subaru Connected Services website or the mobile app. You can view your current subscription plan, add or remove features, update your payment information, and cancel your subscription if needed. The website and app also provide access to customer support resources, such as FAQs, user manuals, and contact information, in case you have any questions or issues. It's a good idea to familiarize yourself with these resources so that you can easily manage your subscription and troubleshoot any problems that may arise.

One important aspect of managing your subscription is to keep track of your renewal date. Subaru Connected Services subscriptions typically renew automatically, so you'll want to make sure that you have sufficient funds in your account to cover the renewal fee. If you decide that you no longer want to continue your subscription, be sure to cancel it before the renewal date to avoid being charged for another period. You can usually cancel your subscription online or by contacting Subaru Connected Services customer support. It's also a good idea to review your subscription plan periodically to ensure that it still meets your needs and that you're not paying for features that you don't use.

Another important consideration is to keep your contact information up to date. This is especially important if you rely on the safety and security features of Subaru Connected Services, such as automatic collision notification and stolen vehicle recovery. If your contact information is outdated, emergency responders may not be able to reach you in the event of an accident, and law enforcement may have difficulty locating your vehicle if it is stolen. You can update your contact information through the Subaru Connected Services website or the mobile app. It's also a good idea to add emergency contacts to your account so that they can be notified in the event of an emergency.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for promotional offers and discounts on Subaru Connected Services subscriptions. Subaru often runs promotions that can save you money on your subscription, such as discounts for new subscribers or bundled packages that include multiple services. You can usually find these offers on the Subaru Connected Services website or by contacting your local Subaru dealer. Taking advantage of these promotions can help you save money on your subscription and get the most value for your investment.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – a comprehensive look at Subaru Connected Services costs and value. While the subscription fees can be a factor, the safety, convenience, and security features offer a compelling package for many Subaru owners. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to subscribe is a personal one. Weigh the pros and cons, consider your individual needs, and make the choice that's right for you.

Drive safe, guys, and enjoy the journey!