Volkswagen Car-Net App & Remote Access: Features, Setup and How to Use Guide

Volkswagen’s Car-Net and myVW app provide a suite of connected services for remote vehicle access, security, and convenience through a subscription model.

📱 Core App & Subscription Guide

The connected features for your Volkswagen are accessed through the myVW mobile app and a paid subscription service called myVW+. The app is free to download and offers basic functions like viewing warranty info and scheduling service, but remote features require a paid plan.

The primary paid service is Remote Access, offered in two plans:

• Monthly: $9.99 per month plus taxes and fees
• Yearly: $110 per year plus taxes and fees (a roughly 8% saving over monthly)

Compatibility Note: The myVW app and Remote Access features are primarily available for most model year 2020 and newer vehicles. Some features, like remote start, also require your vehicle to be factory-equipped with that hardware.

🚗 What You Can Do: Features Overview

The subscribed services, grouped under plans like Remote Access, Safe & Secure, and Vehicle Insights, provide extensive control. The chart below breaks down the availability of key features across different Volkswagen vehicle types.

Note: Availability is an estimate based on model compatibility. Features like remote unlock for the ID.4 require specific software versions. Remote start is unavailable on EVs and certain models like the Passat.

The features can be organized into several key categories:

• Remote Access & Control: Lock/unlock doors, remote start (on equipped gas/hybrid models), and honk/flash lights to find your car. For Electric Vehicles, this includes checking battery status, starting/stopping charging, and remote climate control.
• Security & Safety: Safe & Secure plan includes Automatic Crash Notification, Emergency Assistance, and Stolen Vehicle Location Assistance.
• Vehicle Monitoring & Alerts: Set up Family Guardian alerts for speed, boundary (geofence), and curfew if others drive your car. Get vehicle health reports and maintenance alerts.
• Convenience & Navigation: View your car’s last parked location on a map, send destinations from the app to your car’s navigation, and use parking location finders.

🛠️ How to Set Up and Use the Service

Getting started involves a few key steps:

1. Download & Register: Download the free myVW app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Create a Volkswagen ID account.
2. Add Your Vehicle: In the app, add your vehicle using its 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). You can find this on your registration, driver’s side door frame, or lower windshield.
3. Activate & Subscribe: Follow the in-app prompts to activate services. You’ll need to subscribe to a myVW+ plan (like Remote Access) to unlock the remote features discussed.
4. Using Features: Once active, open the myVW app. The home screen typically shows your car’s status. You can access remote commands (lock, start, etc.) from a dedicated “Remote” or “Commands” section. Set up alerts and find other features in the app’s menu.

💡 Practical Tips for Users

• Check Compatibility: Before relying on a specific feature, verify it works for your exact model and year using the compatibility chart on Volkswagen’s official site.
• Connection is Key: Remote commands require cellular connectivity (from your car’s built-in modem) and a good GPS signal to work. There may be a delay of several seconds between sending a command and its execution.
• Trial Period: Some new vehicles come with a trial subscription (e.g., 6 months). Check your paperwork or the app to see if you have an active trial before paying.
• Integrations: The system works alongside Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for smartphone projection, but these are separate from the Car-Net remote services.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about the Volkswagen Car-Net and myVW app:

Is there a free trial for Car-Net / Remote Access?

• New Volkswagen vehicles often include a complimentary trial period for connected services (commonly 6 months to 5 years, depending on the region and model). Check your vehicle’s documentation or the myVW app notifications for details.

Why can’t I remote start my ID.4 or see the door lock function?

• Remote start is not available for electric vehicles like the ID.4; you use “Remote Climate Control” to pre-condition the cabin instead. For features like remote door lock/unlock, ensure your EV has the latest software update, as some functions require version 5.0 or newer.

Can I use the app if I buy a used Volkswagen?

• Yes, you can activate services on a used vehicle. The process is the same: download the myVW app, create/login to a Volkswagen ID, and add the vehicle using its VIN. You will need to purchase a subscription if the previous owner’s trial has expired.

What happens if my subscription expires?

• If you cancel or your subscription lapses, all remote features accessed via the app (lock/unlock, remote start, alerts, etc.) will stop working. Basic app functions like viewing owner’s manuals or warranty info may still be available.

I hope this detailed guide helps you master your Volkswagen’s connected features. If you know your specific model and year, I can help you check the compatibility of a particular function.