Chicago, IL — A viral TikTok video has reignited debate over automotive subscription fees, after user @otwdesigncrystal claimed her new Toyota required monthly payments to use certain features like navigation and music streaming. The clip quickly gathered more than 1 million views, sparking confusion and frustration among car owners online.
The video, shared on X (formerly Twitter) by the political channel @WallStreetApes, has now been viewed over 5.7 million times, with many users expressing outrage at what they perceived as automakers charging for basic functions.
“We’re in a Toyota 2025, and we noticed that on the screen you can’t use navigation unless you pay a subscription fee,” the TikTok user said. “It’s $15 a month for navigation and another $15 for streaming music. I also saw someone say it’s $8 a month just to see your oil level and tire pressure.”
Fact-Check: What Toyota Actually Charges
While the video went viral for its claims, experts say the information wasn’t entirely accurate. According to Moneywise, Toyota’s Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto remain completely free for navigation and music streaming.
A Community Note added to the viral X post clarified that the paid subscriptions — known as Toyota Audio Multimedia and Drive Connect — are optional add-ons. These plans allow users to access cloud-based navigation, real-time traffic, and music streaming without connecting their phone, typically costing $15 to $25 per month.
“The post contained misinformation,” the note stated. “Basic functions like Bluetooth and CarPlay are free, while subscriptions apply only to advanced connected services.”
Toyota offers trial periods for many of its Connected Services, after which customers can decide whether to continue paying.
Automakers Are Moving Toward Subscriptions
The controversy reflects a wider industry shift toward subscription-based features. Automakers have been testing these models for years, offering paid upgrades for convenience and performance instead of physical hardware packages.
- Mercedes-Benz sells an Acceleration Increase add-on for its EQE and EQS models, unlocking extra horsepower for a monthly or yearly fee.
- Tesla offers a Premium Connectivity plan for live traffic, in-car video streaming, and data use.
- BMW and Porsche have experimented with pay-per-month heated seats and driver-assistance packages.
“The trend mirrors what happened in software and media,” analysts note. “Once companies realized customers would pay monthly for content or tools, they began applying that model across industries.”
From Netflix to Toyota: The Subscription Revolution
The move toward monthly payments began in the early 2000s. Netflix’s transition from DVD rentals to streaming subscriptions normalized recurring billing. Adobe followed by switching its Creative Suite to Creative Cloud, and Microsoft turned Office into a subscription platform.
Over time, subscription models spread into every consumer category — from fitness apps and streaming TV to home devices and now vehicles.
Critics argue that this model benefits corporations more than consumers. As journalist Corey Doctorow and others have written, the subscription economy has allowed major companies like Amazon to prioritize customer lock-in over value, often resulting in higher prices and lower transparency.
“Customers are no longer buying products — they’re renting access,” one analyst told Moneywise.
Are Car Subscriptions Worth It?
While the subscription model frustrates many buyers, experts emphasize that most automakers still keep essential features free. Paid plans generally cover convenience-based perks rather than core functions.
You might consider a connected-services plan if you:
- Rely on built-in navigation and want real-time traffic updates.
- Use remote-start or car health apps for convenience and safety.
- Need in-car Wi-Fi for long commutes or family trips.
Otherwise, using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto may be all you need, as both provide free access to navigation and music via your smartphone.
“With new-car prices averaging over $50,000 and high interest rates, it’s smart to avoid stacking on monthly fees unless they add real value,” Moneywise advised.
The Bottom Line
Toyota isn’t the only company experimenting with connected-service subscriptions — but the viral TikTok underscores just how sensitive drivers have become to recurring charges. Experts recommend reading the Connected Services sheet for your exact vehicle before buying and tracking when free trials end to avoid surprise renewals.
What are your thoughts on paying monthly for car features? Share your opinion in the comments below.
