Honda developed a clever smartphone app named HondaLink that lets motorists perform a variety of functions from the comfort of their own couch. It’s compatible with Android- and Apple-powered devices, it’s available on just about every 2019 and 2020 model the Japanese company makes, and it even enables a couple of unique features.
Here’s how it works: HondaLink pairs your smartphone with a vehicle’s infotainment system as well as the car’s safety systems. The app features a clean design and is intuitive to use. At a glance, you can quickly see information like your car’s range, tire pressures, odometer, and oil life all on one simple screen. You can also make a service appointment and find your car in a parking lot, which is helpful if you routinely forget where you parked.
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
To enable HondaLink, you need to download the app on your smartphone, get in your car, and connect your phone via Bluetooth to the Honda Infotainment system. At this point, you can open the HondaLink app on your phone and it should automatically take you through the pairing procedure once the phone app recognizes the Bluetooth connection. Once connected, you have full control over the above-listed features through your phone.
Note that Honda markets the HondaLink app in several tiers. Some features are free, like the ability to send an address to the navigation system, but motorists who want access to collision notifications and enhanced roadside assistance will need to pay $89 a year. Those seeking the ability to start their car remotely, lock and unlock it (for a delivery driver, notably), find their car in a parking lot, and locate it if it’s stolen will need to subscribe to the Remote plan Honda charges $110 a year for. The top Concierge plan, priced at $260 annually, includes a personal concierge.
HondaLink has been around for a few years now and has proven to be a secure and stable system that assists in your ownership experience and makes living with your new vehicle all the easier. Just like good technology should.
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