Mazda is introducing a paid subscription to Connected Services, including remote engine start, after the end of the free three-year period. This decision causes dissatisfaction among car owners.
Feature Subscription
New Mazda Strategy
Mazda has joined the trend of automakers using subscriptions to vehicle features as a way to increase profits. Some Mazda owners have already received notice that their free trial of Mazda Connected Services will end. After two months, they will have to pay a $10 monthly subscription to maintain access to options such as remote engine start.
History of Connected Services
Since 2019, Mazda has provided Connected Services free for three years to all new vehicle buyers. Previously, the company extended this period, but has now decided to abandon this. As a result, car owners are being asked to pay for certain features, causing frustration, especially with regard to the remote start feature that used to be built into car keys.
Service package contents
Mazda says that since 2019, it has advertised Connected Services as a free three-year trial with a pay period. In addition to remote start, the package includes remote keyless entry, vehicle health information (such as fuel level), maintenance notifications, vehicle finder, automatic emergency calling and other options.
Auto Industry Trends
Typically, these features were offered on certain trim levels or as optional extras upon purchase. Now the automaker is aiming to provide them through a monthly subscription model. It's worth noting that BMW previously tried to introduce a subscription to heated seats, but abandoned the idea due to negative customer reactions. Later, Toyota, Audi and Mercedes, who criticized BMW for this approach, also tried to introduce regular payments for some car functions.
Glossary
- Mazda is a Japanese automaker known for its innovative technology and stylish design.
- Connected Services - a set of digital services provided by automakers to improve the user experience.
- BMW is a German manufacturer of premium cars and motorcycles.
- Toyota is the largest Japanese automaker, known for its reliability and efficiency.
- Mercedes is a German manufacturer of luxury cars, a symbol of prestige and quality.
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Answers to questions
What are Mazda Connected Services and what features do they include?
How have the terms of use of Mazda Connected Services changed?
Why are car owners unhappy with Mazda's new policy?
How does Mazda explain the introduction of a paid subscription?
What other automakers have tried to introduce car feature subscriptions?
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Discussion of the topic – Revolution in the auto industry: Mazda introduces subscription to car features
Mazda is joining the trend of car feature subscriptions, which could transform the ownership experience for drivers. The article examines the company's new strategy, its impact on consumers and the future of the automotive industry.
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Isabella
I can't believe Mazda now also requires you to pay for features that were previously free! 😠 This is simply outrageous. Is the money we pay for the cars themselves not enough for them?
Hans
I agree with Isabella. This looks like an attempt to squeeze even more money out of customers. $10 a month may not seem like a lot, but over the course of a year it’s already $120. But many of these functions were previously built into the basic package. 🤔
Sophie
I think this is a new trend in the auto industry. BMW also tried to introduce a subscription to heated seats. Could it be that automakers are looking for new ways to make profits in the age of electric vehicles? 🚗💡
Juan
Sophie, you're right. But this does not justify this approach. I'd rather pay once for extra features when purchasing a car than pay for a subscription all the time. This is somehow more reliable and clearer for the consumer. 💰
Grzegorz
Guys, don’t you think that this may be due to constant software updates and server support for these services? Perhaps Mazda is simply trying to cover these costs. 🤷♂️
Viktor
Nonsense! Previously, everything worked without any subscriptions or updates. I just pressed the button on the key fob and the car started. And now what, every time I think, did I forget to pay for the subscription? Complete nonsense!
Lucia
Viktor, I understand your dissatisfaction, but technology does not stand still. Modern systems do require constant updating and support. Maybe Mazda should offer different options - with and without a subscription, so that everyone can choose what is convenient for them? 🤔
Hans
Interesting thought, Lucia! It would really be nice to have a choice. For example, basic functions are without a subscription, and advanced ones are optional. So the wolves are fed, and the sheep are safe. Maybe some of the automakers will listen to such ideas? 🚗💡