Heading out to your car, especially on cold mornings, you want to know that it is ready to drive. Spending a few extra minutes when you’re already late is not ideal. Thankfully, with all the new technology pouring into cars these days, there is a way to know precisely what temperature your car is before even stepping out the door.
Honda never compromises on its values even as it introduces new technology and features into its vehicles. Its latest addition, Hondalink, delivers drivers vital information about their car to their phones through this handy app.
One of our favorite features of the system is the in-car delivery function called Key by Amazon. Instead of sending your packages to your doorstep to be stolen, the HondaLink system unlocks your car to let the delivery driver place the packages securely in your trunk, and locks it when access is no longer needed. Note this technology only works in 50 American cities and their surrounding areas, and motorists need to be Amazon Prime customers before using it.
The range function is a boon on long road trips, regardless of whether your Honda runs on gasoline, electricity, or both. The HondaLink app helps you find the nearest gas station or electric car charging station, and provides directions to it if needed. In some models, like the Clarity, you can also use your phone to pre-set the climate control system so your seat isn’t freezing or scorching hot when you step in after leaving the car outside for several hours.
The full safety and security features controllable through the app include:
- Remote engine start
- Lock or unlock doors
- Automatic collision notifications
- Recall notifications
- Service appointments
- Roadside assistance
- Emergency call
- Speed alerts
- Security alarm alerts
- Stolen vehicle locator
The infotainment features controllable through the app include:
- Navigation
- Parking reminders
- Destination by voice
- Hands-free calling
- Phonebook access
- Music streaming
- Selected app access
A few steps are required to enable HondaLink. To start:
- Download the Hondalink app on your smartphone.
- When you are in your car, connect your phone to Bluetooth on the Honda Infotainment system.
- Open the app on your phone to automatically pair through the Bluetooth connection. When you are connected, you will have full control over the above-listed features on your phone.
HondaLink is available in a few different packages. Some features are for free in addition to subscription prices. Motorists who want access to collision notifications and enhanced roadside assistance will need to pay $89 a year. The next subscription level offers a longer list of features, however. Those seeking to start their car remotely, lock, and unlock it (for a delivery driver, notably), for example, will need to choose the Remote plan. The $110 per year plan enables consumers to find their car in a parking lot and locate it if stolen. The top Concierge plan, priced at $260 annually, includes a personal concierge. Most drivers will likely pass on the subscription options, though. In our opinion, it’s not worth the subscription for most users — unless you know you’ll need at least a handful of the features.
Although many people are more familiar with its competitors, HondaLink has now been available for a few years. And though it costs a little more for a subscription, it seems worthwhile with the secure and reliable system that you receive. Overall, the goal of HondaLink is to improve the ownership experience, offering new technology, upgrades, and easy operation.
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