How to Get the Most Out of VW's Car-Net® App

By: Kris LeSueur   |   11 Sep 2024

Volkswagen's Car-Net® app offers an array of features that enhance your driving experience, providing remote access and control over key vehicle functions. Whether you're driving a new or used Volkswagen equipped with Car-Net®, understanding its full potential can maximize convenience, safety, and connectivity. Here's a guide on how to get the most out of VW's Car-Net® app.

Remote Access and Control

One of the standout features of Car-Net® is the ability to access and control your vehicle remotely. Through the app, you can:

  • Lock and Unlock Doors: If you ever forget to lock your car or need to let someone in, you can lock and unlock your vehicle from anywhere.
  • Remote Start: On hot or cold days, you can start your car and adjust the climate control before stepping outside, ensuring a comfortable ride.
  • Horn and Lights: If you're trying to locate your car in a crowded parking lot, you can remotely activate the horn and lights to find it quickly.

Pro Tip: Always make sure you have solid cellular reception when using remote functions, as the app relies on data connectivity for these features.

Vehicle Health Monitoring

Car-Net® helps you keep track of your car's maintenance needs and overall health with its Vehicle Health Reports. The app will notify you about the following:

  • Oil Changes: Alerts will remind you when it's time for an oil change so you can take advantage of every crucial service.
  • Tire Pressure: If your tire pressure drops below the recommended level, Car-Net® will notify you, helping to ensure optimal safety and fuel efficiency.
  • Service Schedule: With reminders about regular services, you can stay on top of your vehicle's maintenance schedule and ensure your Volkswagen stays in top condition.

Pro Tip: Use these health reports to schedule appointments with your preferred VW service center through the app, saving you time.

Find Parking Easily

Car-Net® includes a handy Find Parking feature showing available parking spots near your destination. This can be a lifesaver in busy areas or during events when parking is hard to find.

  • Location-based Search: The app shows nearby parking facilities based on your location or destination.
  • Compare Prices: Some parking locations display pricing information so you can choose the most cost-effective option.

Pro Tip: Before heading to your destination, use this feature to plan where to park, saving you time and frustration upon arrival.

Family Guardian Alerts

Car-Net® is ideal for parents or anyone who shares their vehicle with others. With Family Guardian Alerts, you can monitor driving habits and receive notifications about:

  • Speed Alerts: Set a maximum speed limit for your car, and you'll receive an alert if the driver exceeds it.
  • Boundary Alerts: Define geographic boundaries and get notified if the vehicle enters or exits these areas.
  • Curfew Alerts: Set time-based restrictions to ensure the car isn't driven past a particular hour.

Pro Tip: These features are great for parents with teenage drivers, as they allow you to set parameters and monitor safe driving habits.

Location and Tracking Features

Car-Net® provides several features that enhance your vehicle's security and convenience when it comes to location services:

  • Vehicle Location: The app allows you to view your vehicle's location on a map if you need help remembering where you parked or need to check its location.
  • Stolen Vehicle Assistance: If your Volkswagen is stolen, Car-Net® can assist law enforcement by providing the vehicle's location to help recover it quickly.

Pro Tip: Always ensure that your Car-Net® app is up to date. This ensures that the GPS tracking and location services function at their best.

Send Destinations to Your Car

Planning a road trip or just a quick errand run? With Car-Net®, you can:

  • Send Destination to Your Navigation System: On your smartphone, input an address or point of interest and send the location directly to your car's navigation system before you start driving.

This feature simplifies entering directions, ensuring you hit the road quickly with accurate directions loaded into the system.

Wi-Fi Hotspot

If your vehicle is equipped with Car-Net®'s Wi-Fi Hotspot, you can connect up to four devices to the internet at once. This is particularly useful for road trips, allowing passengers to stream, browse, and stay connected without using mobile data.

  • Wi-Fi Packages: VW offers data plans for this feature, making it easy to stay online without racking up mobile data charges.

Pro Tip: Be sure to explore the different data plans offered through VW's partnership with mobile carriers to choose the best option for your needs.

App-Connect Integration

Car-Net® integrates seamlessly with VW App-Connect, which brings smartphone apps directly to your car's infotainment screen via Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™, or MirrorLink®. This means you can:

  • Access Music and Podcasts: Stream your favorite playlists or podcasts through apps like Spotify or Apple Music.
  • Use Navigation Apps: Apps like Google Maps and Waze can be displayed on your car's screen, offering an alternative to the built-in navigation system.

Pro Tip: Customize your App-Connect dashboard to display your most-used apps for easy access while driving.

Volkswagen's Car-Net® app has features that make your driving experience safer, more convenient, and more connected. From remote vehicle access to real-time maintenance updates, getting the most out of Car-Net® requires familiarizing yourself with all the available tools. By leveraging its capabilities—managing vehicle health, enhancing security, or improving family safety—you can enjoy a more seamless and enjoyable driving experience.

Explore the full potential of Car-Net® today to transform how you interact with your Volkswagen!

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