Ford Premium Connectivity is a subscription service that adds remote vehicle features to your Ford
Ford Premium Connectivity is an optional monthly or yearly subscription that unlocks remote features in the FordPass mobile app and your vehicle's built-in screen. Without it, you get basic features like remote lock and unlock. With it, you gain the ability to start your engine remotely, check your fuel level and tire pressure from your phone, set climate controls before you get in the car, and receive alerts if your vehicle is moved without permission.
The service connects to your vehicle through a built-in modem and cellular network, so it works whether you are at home, at work, or across the country. Ford bundles it with other services depending on which subscription tier you choose and which model year your vehicle is.
You do not need Premium Connectivity to drive your Ford. It is purely optional and designed for owners who want remote convenience features. If you decide not to subscribe, your vehicle works exactly as it always has.
Key Takeaways
- Premium Connectivity lets you start your engine, adjust climate controls, and check fuel and tire pressure from the FordPass app on your phone.
- The service requires a monthly or yearly subscription fee, which varies by model year and region.
- Your vehicle must have a built-in modem and active cellular connection for the service to work.
- Ford offers different subscription tiers, and some features may be included free for a limited time after purchase.
What features come with Premium Connectivity
The exact features depend on your vehicle's model year and which subscription tier you choose, but the core Premium Connectivity package typically includes remote engine start, remote climate control (heating and cooling), fuel level and tire pressure monitoring, vehicle status reports, and theft alerts that notify you if your vehicle is moved without authorization.
Some Ford models also include features like remote door lock and unlock, the ability to set a speed alert so you know if someone drives your vehicle over a certain speed, and integration with voice assistants like Alexa. Newer model years sometimes add features like the ability to locate your vehicle on a map or set up geofencing alerts.
Ford also offers an Enhanced Security Package on some vehicles, which adds features like automatic door locks when you shift into drive and the ability to disable your vehicle remotely if it is stolen. This may be bundled with Premium Connectivity or sold separately depending on your model.
How much Premium Connectivity costs
Ford Premium Connectivity pricing varies by region and model year. Most subscriptions are offered as either a monthly plan or an annual plan, with the annual option typically costing less per month if you commit upfront. Pricing generally ranges from roughly $5 to $15 per month, though this can vary.
When you buy a new Ford, the manufacturer often includes a trial period of Premium Connectivity at no charge — commonly three months to one year depending on the model and dealer promotion. After the trial ends, you choose whether to continue the subscription or let it expire.
If you own a used Ford with a built-in modem, you can also start a Premium Connectivity subscription even if the previous owner did not have one active. Contact a Ford dealer or use the FordPass app to check current pricing and start a subscription.
What you need to use Premium Connectivity
Your Ford must have a built-in modem — this is standard on most Ford vehicles from 2017 onward, but some older models do not have one. If your vehicle does not have the modem hardware, you cannot add Premium Connectivity later.
You also need an active cellular connection in your area. The modem uses AT&T's network in the United States, so if you are in a location with no AT&T coverage, the service will not work. The cellular connection is separate from your personal phone plan and is included as part of the subscription.
Finally, you need the FordPass mobile app, which is free to read on iOS and Android. The app is where you access all the remote features, receive alerts, and manage your subscription.
How to check if your Ford has Premium Connectivity capability
The easiest way to check is to open the FordPass app and look at the available features. If you see remote start, climate control, and other advanced options, your vehicle has the modem. If you only see basic features like lock and unlock, your vehicle either does not have the modem or Premium Connectivity is not currently active.
You can also check your vehicle's paperwork or window sticker from when it was sold — the modem is often listed as an option or standard feature. If you are unsure, a Ford dealer can confirm whether your specific vehicle has the built-in modem.
Starting and canceling a Premium Connectivity subscription
If your trial period is ending or you want to start a new subscription, you can do so directly through the FordPass app. Open the app, navigate to the subscription or account settings section, and follow the prompts to choose your plan and payment method. You can also contact a Ford dealer to set up or manage your subscription.
Canceling is equally straightforward — you can turn off your subscription through the FordPass app at any time, and it will stop at the end of your current billing period. There are no early termination fees or penalties for canceling.
If you sell your vehicle, the subscription stays with you, not the car. The new owner can start their own subscription if they want Premium Connectivity features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my Ford come with Premium Connectivity included?
New Fords usually include a trial period of Premium Connectivity at no charge, typically lasting three months to one year. After the trial ends, you choose whether to pay for a subscription. Check your purchase paperwork or the FordPass app to see how long your trial lasts.
What happens if I don't subscribe to Premium Connectivity?
Your Ford works normally without it. You can still lock and unlock your vehicle remotely through the basic FordPass features, and all standard driving functions remain unchanged. Premium Connectivity only adds extra convenience features.
Can I use Premium Connectivity if I have an older Ford?
Only if your vehicle has a built-in modem, which is standard on most Fords from 2017 onward. Older models typically do not have the modem hardware. A Ford dealer can confirm whether your specific vehicle supports it.
Does Premium Connectivity work if I have no cell service?
No. The service requires an active cellular connection to communicate with your vehicle. If you are in an area with no AT&T coverage, the remote features will not work until you return to an area with service.
Can I transfer my Premium Connectivity subscription to a new vehicle?
You can cancel your current subscription and start a new one on a different vehicle, but the subscription itself is tied to your FordPass account, not the car. Set up a new subscription on your new vehicle through the FordPass app or a Ford dealer.