Blue Link is Hyundai's connected car service, and the basic version is free

Blue Link is Hyundai's system that connects your car to your phone and a mobile app. The service lets you lock and unlock your doors remotely, start your engine, check your fuel level, and locate your car on a map — all from your phone. Hyundai includes a free version with most new Hyundai vehicles, and you do not pay anything to use it during the trial period that comes with your car.

After the trial ends, you can choose to pay for a subscription to keep using Blue Link, or you can stop using it. The cost depends on which features you want and how long you commit to the service. Some features stay free even after your trial ends.

Key Takeaways

  • Blue Link comes free with most new Hyundai vehicles for a trial period that typically lasts three years.
  • After the trial ends, you can pay for a monthly or annual subscription to keep using premium features, or use the free features only.
  • Monthly subscriptions usually cost between $8 and $15 per month, depending on which package you choose and your location.
  • Some features like vehicle status checks and roadside information remain free even after your paid subscription ends.
  • You can cancel your subscription at any time without penalty.

What comes free with Blue Link

When you buy or lease a new Hyundai, Blue Link is included at no cost for a set period. This trial period is usually three years from the date you purchase or lease the vehicle, though the exact length depends on your vehicle model and when you bought it. During this time, you can use all Blue Link features without paying anything.

After your trial ends, some features remain free. You can still check your vehicle's status — things like fuel level, tire pressure, and whether doors are locked — without a paid subscription. You can also still receive roadside information through Blue Link at no extra charge. What you lose access to without a paid plan are the remote features: locking and unlocking your doors, starting your engine, and sending destinations to your car's navigation system.

Paid subscription costs after your trial ends

Once your free trial period ends, Hyundai offers paid plans to restore your remote access features. The most common option is a monthly subscription, which typically costs between $8 and $15 per month depending on your location and the specific package. Some regions and dealerships offer different pricing, so the exact amount you see may vary.

If you prefer to pay upfront, Hyundai also offers annual plans. An annual subscription usually costs between $80 and $150 per year, which works out to less per month than paying monthly. You can also purchase multi-year plans in some cases, which may offer a lower per-month rate if you commit to a longer period.

How to check your trial status and upcoming costs

You can see when your Blue Link trial ends by opening the Blue Link mobile app on your phone. The app shows your subscription status and the date your current plan expires. You can also call your Hyundai dealership or contact Hyundai customer service directly — they can tell you exactly when your trial period ends and what your subscription options are.

Hyundai typically sends you a notification by email or through the app a few weeks before your trial expires, reminding you that you will need to choose a paid plan or lose remote features. This gives you time to decide whether you want to continue the service.

Comparing Blue Link to other car connection services

Other car manufacturers offer similar connected services. General Motors has OnStar, Toyota has Toyota Connected Services, and Ford has FordPass. Most of these services follow a similar model: free trial included with a new vehicle, then a paid subscription after the trial ends. The costs and features vary by manufacturer, but they typically range from $10 to $20 per month for comparable remote features.

If you are comparing vehicles and connected services matter to you, ask the dealership about the trial length and subscription cost for each brand. Some manufacturers offer longer free trials or lower subscription rates, which can add up over time if you plan to keep the vehicle for many years.

What happens if you do not renew your subscription

If your trial ends and you do not purchase a paid subscription, you straightforward lose access to the remote features. Your car will still work normally — you can still drive it, lock it with your key fob, and start it with your key. You just will not be able to do those things from your phone anymore. The free features like vehicle status checks and roadside information remain available.

You can restart a paid subscription at any time if you change your mind. There is no penalty for letting your subscription lapse, and you do not lose your account or your car's connection to the Blue Link system. If you decide to resubscribe later, you straightforward log back into the app and purchase a new plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use Blue Link if I buy a used Hyundai?

Yes, but the trial period may be shorter or already expired. Used Hyundai vehicles may have a remaining trial period depending on how old the car is and whether the previous owner used Blue Link. Contact your dealership with your vehicle identification number (VIN) to find out your trial status and remaining time.

Does Blue Link work if I switch phones or change my phone number?

Yes. Blue Link is tied to your account, not your specific phone. You can log into the Blue Link app on a new phone using your account credentials, and your car will connect to the new device. Your phone number does not affect the service.

Are there any hidden fees or charges I should know about?

No. The subscription cost is the only ongoing charge. There are no set up fees, cancellation fees, or surprise charges. If you cancel your subscription, it stops when ready and you are not charged further.

What if I sell my car before my trial ends?

The Blue Link account is tied to the vehicle, not to you as the owner. When you sell the car, the new owner can set up their own Blue Link account and begin their own trial period. You should remove your account from the vehicle before selling it.