Subscription-based activation of various features in the automobile industry has recently become widespread. Mazda also started to offer some of its popular features on subscription basis as part of the tests conducted in the USA. However, this decision infuriated vehicle owners.

Mazda denies remote start to non-subscribers

Mazda has decided to include remote start and other connected services in its subscription system, a decision that has provoked the reaction of vehicle owners. The remote start feature, which was previously offered free of charge via the car key fob, is now available with a subscription to Mazda Connected Services for $10 per month.

This means that non-subscribing Mazda owners will not be able to start their vehicles remotely. Vehicle owners, who made joint statements on the subject, criticised Mazda by asking for full ownership of all features of a purchased vehicle.

On the other hand, it was stated that some users developed an open source solution for Mazda cars, but the company sent a warning to the project for copyright infringement. This means that subscription-based features can only be obtained from Mazda.

Although aftermarket remote start kits are available as an alternative, Mazda Connected Services subscribers get several advantages over non-subscribers, such as vehicle health reports and remote locking.

Of course, Mazda is just one of many automakers trialling a subscription model for standard and additional features. However, this approach has led users to question the concept of car ownership.