19:03 08-02-2026

Car subscription models lead to hidden costs for owners

ADAC and c't analyze car subscription models, revealing hidden costs from digital features like remote control and navigation. Learn about pricing transparency and tips for buyers.

The German automobile club ADAC, in collaboration with the technical magazine c't, has analyzed subscription models offered by car manufacturers and concluded that digital features in vehicles are increasingly becoming a source of hidden costs for owners. The main issue lies in insufficient transparency regarding pricing and service durations.

Manufacturers offer paid access to remote vehicle control, navigation, and multimedia functions. In some cases, these services are initially provided for free but later require payment. For instance, Skoda includes remote features for three years, Audi and Opel for ten years, while Nio keeps them free for the vehicle's entire lifespan. Meanwhile, navigation and advanced infotainment functions almost always transition to a paid basis.

Subscription costs vary significantly. After three months of free use, BMW charges 9.98 euros per month, while Mercedes charges up to 329 euros per year after three years. For Renault, prices after the free period ends in 2027 are not yet determined, and Volvo promises to notify customers only shortly before the conclusion of its four-year free term.

ADAC emphasizes that due to fragmented subscription models, buyers struggle to estimate the true ownership costs over the vehicle's lifetime. This is particularly relevant for used car buyers, whose free periods have often partially or fully expired.

The automobile club recommends clarifying the status of digital services upfront, documenting terms in contracts, and critically evaluating the necessity of paid features. ADAC also insists that vital safety functions should remain free throughout the vehicle's entire lifecycle.