What Acura Link is and what it connects to

Acura Link is the connected car system built into Acura vehicles. It uses your car's built-in cellular connection to send data to Acura's servers and to receive commands from your phone or a voice assistant. The system handles emergency services, remote vehicle control, navigation updates, and roadside information — all without requiring you to buy a separate subscription device or pay extra for cellular service beyond what Acura includes.

The system is standard on most new Acura models. It connects through a modem installed in the vehicle during manufacturing, so there is no hardware to buy or install yourself. When you own or lease an Acura, Acura Link is part of the package, though some features may require you to set up an account and agree to the terms of service.

Acura Link is different from your car's infotainment screen or Bluetooth connection. Those let you play music or take calls through your car's speakers. Acura Link is a separate system that runs in the background and communicates directly with Acura's network, whether or not you are actively using the car's entertainment system.

Key Takeaways

  • Acura Link is included in most new Acura vehicles and uses a built-in cellular modem to connect your car to Acura's network.
  • The system can send your location to emergency services, unlock or start your car remotely, and provide roadside information without you making a phone call.
  • You control Acura Link features through the Acura mobile app, voice commands, or the car's touchscreen, depending on which features your model supports.
  • Some Acura Link services are included at no extra cost, while others may require a paid subscription or may be limited to a trial period.
  • Acura Link collects location data and vehicle information; you can review Acura's privacy policy to understand what data is collected and how it is used.

Emergency services and roadside information through Acura Link

If you are in an accident or need emergency help, Acura Link can contact emergency services automatically. When a collision is detected, the system can send your vehicle's location to a response center. A representative can then contact emergency services on your behalf and provide them with your location, even if you cannot speak or your phone is damaged.

Roadside information through Acura Link works similarly. If your car breaks down or you run out of fuel, you can press the roadside information button on your car's touchscreen or use the mobile app to request help. The system sends your location to a dispatch center, and a representative arranges a tow truck or fuel delivery without you having to describe where you are.

The availability and scope of emergency and roadside services vary by model year and region. Some Acura vehicles include a set number of roadside calls per year at no extra cost, while others may require a paid subscription. Check your owner's manual or contact your Acura dealer to learn what is included with your specific vehicle.

Remote vehicle control and the Acura mobile app

The Acura mobile app lets you control certain functions of your car from your phone, as long as the car has a cellular connection. Common remote features include locking and unlocking the doors, starting the engine, and checking the fuel level or battery charge. Some models also allow you to set climate control or locate your car on a map if you forget where you parked.

To use remote features, you must read the Acura mobile app, create an account, and link it to your vehicle. The app will ask for your vehicle identification number (VIN) and may require you to verify your identity. Once set up, you can control your car from anywhere with an internet connection on your phone.

Not all remote features are available on all model years. Newer Acura vehicles typically have more remote capabilities than older ones. If you are unsure which features your car supports, check the app after you set it up — it will only show you the functions your vehicle can perform.

Navigation updates and software improvements

Acura Link can deliver map and navigation updates to your car over the cellular connection, so you do not have to visit a dealer or manually read files to a USB drive. When Acura releases updated maps or navigation software, the system can read and install the update automatically or notify you that an update is ready.

The same connection is used for other software updates to your car's systems. Rather than scheduling a service appointment to have a technician update your vehicle's computer, some updates can be installed remotely while your car is parked in your garage. This is sometimes called "over-the-air" or OTA updates.

The frequency and scope of updates depend on your vehicle model and Acura's release schedule. Updates are typically free, as they are part of the service Acura provides to keep your car's systems current and find.

Data collection and privacy considerations

Acura Link collects information about your vehicle's location, speed, fuel level, battery charge, and other operational data. This information is sent to Acura's servers so the company can provide services like emergency response, roadside information, and remote vehicle control. Acura also uses this data to improve its services and to understand how vehicles are used.

Before using Acura Link, you should review Acura's privacy policy to understand what data is collected, how long it is stored, and who can access it. The privacy policy is usually available on Acura's website or in your vehicle's documentation. You can also contact your Acura dealer if you have questions about what data your car is sending.

Some Acura Link features allow you to opt out of data collection or to limit what information is shared. For example, you may be able to disable location tracking for certain features while keeping emergency services active. Check your car's settings or the mobile app to see what privacy options are available for your vehicle.

Subscription and trial periods for Acura Link services

Acura Link services are structured in different ways depending on the feature and your vehicle model. Some services, like emergency response and roadside information, are often included for a set period (such as three years) when you purchase or lease a new Acura. After that period ends, you may need to pay a subscription fee to keep the service active, or the service may end.

Other services, like remote vehicle control through the mobile app, may be free for all owners, or they may require a subscription. Acura's pricing and what is included can change by model year and region, so the best way to know what applies to your car is to check your purchase or lease agreement and contact your Acura dealer.

If you are unsure whether a service is still active or when your trial period ends, log into the Acura mobile app or call your dealer. They can tell you the status of each service and what your options are if you want to continue or cancel.

Troubleshooting common Acura Link issues

If Acura Link features are not working, the first step is to check whether your car has a cellular signal. Acura Link requires a data connection to function, so if you are in an area with no cellular coverage, remote features will not work. Move to an area with signal and try again.

If you have signal but features still are not working, restart the car's infotainment system by turning the car off, waiting a few minutes, and turning it back on. If the problem persists, check the Acura mobile app to see whether there is a message about your vehicle's connection status. Some vehicles display a warning on the touchscreen if there is a connectivity issue.

If you cannot resolve the problem, contact your Acura dealer or call Acura customer service. They can check whether your vehicle's cellular modem is functioning correctly and whether there is an issue with your account or subscription status. Dealer contact information is usually in your owner's manual or on Acura's website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Acura Link work if I do not have a cell phone plan?

Yes. Acura Link uses a built-in cellular modem in your car, not your personal phone plan. The car has its own data connection that Acura pays for. However, to use the mobile app to control your car remotely, you will need a smartphone with an internet connection.

Can I turn off Acura Link or disable certain features?

You can disable some Acura Link features through your car's settings or the mobile app, such as location tracking for certain services. However, emergency response features are typically always active so that help can reach you in a crash. Check your owner's manual or contact your dealer to learn which features can be disabled on your specific model.

What happens to my Acura Link data if I sell my car?

When you sell or trade in your Acura, you should remove your account from the vehicle through the mobile app or by contacting your dealer. This disconnects your personal information from the car. The new owner can then set up their own Acura Link account. Acura's privacy policy explains how data is handled during ownership transfers.

Does Acura Link drain my car's battery when the car is off?

Acura Link uses very little power when the car is off, but it does use some battery to maintain the cellular connection. If your car sits unused for several weeks, the battery may drain slightly faster than it would without Acura Link. For most owners who drive regularly, this is not noticeable. If you plan to leave your car parked for an extended period, you can disconnect the battery or contact your dealer for information.

Is Acura Link the same as Apple CarPlay or Android Auto?

No. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are ways to connect your phone to your car's screen to use apps like maps or music. Acura Link is a separate system that runs independently and handles emergency services, remote vehicle control, and software updates. You can use both systems at the same time — Acura Link in the background and CarPlay or Android Auto on your screen.