Driving an older vehicle usually means missing out on the latest high-tech features but Ford is looking to correct that by introducing the new FordPass SmartLink.
Designed to work with 2010-2017 vehicles, the SmartLink plugs into the OBD II port, located beneath the steering wheel, and gives the vehicle a host of modern connectivity features. Highlights include a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, vehicle health and security alerts and a vehicle locator function. The SmartLink also allows owners to use their smartphone to remotely start their vehicle or lock / unlock its doors.
Ford has been working on the system for more than two years and has partnered with Verizon to provide mobile connectivity. While the features are nice, the service is a tad pricey as customers will need to pay $16.99 a month for 24 months. That’s $407.76 but the cost also includes many of the telematics services.
Buyers will also receive a complimentary trial of the WiFi hotspot which includes one gigabyte of data or 30 days of use – whichever comes first. Afterwards, owners will need to sign up for a Verizon account or add the service to their existing account.
The FordPass SmartLink will go on sale in the United States in the middle of the year and it will be available exclusively at Ford dealerships. The company says this is just the “latest example of Ford’s aggressive connected vehicle plan” which calls for all new U.S. models to have built-in connectivity by 2019.
The Smartlink features aren’t too exciting but Ford’s president of global customer service said “Vehicle connectivity has improved at a rapid rate in recent years” and “We believe offering an affordable way for our customers to upgrade their older-model vehicles to include more modern technology will improve their ownership experience for years to come.”
VIDEO
![](https://www.carscoops.com/wp-content/themes/carscoops/assets/images/icons/arrow.png"){kind=icon}