Garage Access Moves Behind a Paywall
The user said earlier Honda models included a mirror-mounted button to open garage doors. In the newer vehicle, that function is now integrated into a smartphone-based system using HondaLink and the MyQ app.
HondaLink offers a range of connected services, including vehicle status notifications and remote access features, depending on the subscription tier. The garage door functionality, however, relies on MyQ, a separate subscription service.
Subscription Requirements and Costs
To use the system, customers must install a MyQ-compatible receiver in their garage and connect it to a home network. The vehicle must also be paired with a smartphone through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
MyQ subscription plans are priced at $129 for three years or $179 for five years, with a 30-day free trial offered to new users. The service allows users to open and close their garage remotely, schedule access times, and grant entry to others.
Shift Away From Standard Equipment
Previously, many Honda vehicles were equipped with HomeLink-compatible mirrors as standard or widely available features. In newer models, that hardware is no longer included in all trims.
Customers who prefer the traditional setup can purchase a HomeLink mirror separately, which costs about $170. Additional expenses may apply if a garage system is not compatible with MyQ and requires new hardware.
The shift highlights an ongoing industry debate over subscription-based features, particularly when applied to functions that were once standard in vehicles.
