How Chevy’s In-Vehicle Wi-Fi Works

In the age we live in today, access to the internet seems to be everywhere. From public spaces like coffee shops to individual homes, there’s no shortage of spots with Wi-Fi access. Many new Chevrolet for sale come with in-vehicle Wi-Fi, which can boost your connectivity to the world around you on a whole new level. Below, you can learn about Chevy’s in-vehicle Wi-Fi, including how it works, how to set it up, what its benefits are, and how much it costs.

What Is Chevy’s In-Vehicle Wi-Fi?

Chevy’s in-vehicle Wi-Fi is similar to other types of car Wi-Fi because it acts as a hotspot. It connects to the internet exactly how your phone connects to the internet. While navigation and map features can use a Global Position System (GPS), the streaming of multimedia requires the use of an LTE connection made available through AT&T.

How Does Chevy’s In-Vehicle Wi-Fi Work?

Your Chevy vehicle contains a chipset. This chipset is similar to the one that’s inside your mobile smartphone. The modem chip communicates with cell towers owned by AT&T. When the modem chip can establish reliable connections, you and other passengers in your vehicle can connect to the car Wi-Fi like you would at home or in a place that offers public Wi-Fi. Essentially, the car connects to the internet using a cellular connection. Then, it uses your vehicle as a hotspot to broadcast the signal to close-by phones and tablets.

How To Set Up Chevy’s In-Vehicle Wi-Fi

Here’s a list of steps on how to set up Chevy’s in-vehicle Wi-Fi:

1. Purchase and subscribe to the Chevy MyLink feature.
2. Turn your vehicle’s engine on or put your car in “Accessory Mode.”
3. Open the settings on your mobile device and select “Wi-Fi.”
4. Wait for the option to join your car’s network to appear and select it.
5. On your car’s display screen, open the MyLink app.
6. Choose the hotspot icon.
7. View the default Wi-Fi password.
8. Go back to your smartphone and type in the default password to connect to the in-car Wi-Fi.

Benefits of Having Chevy’s In-Vehicle Wi-Fi

Here are some benefits of Chevy’s in-vehicle Wi-Fi:

Offers Entertainment for Long Road Trips

Do you have a long road trip coming up in the near future? If you’re taking your kids with you who may grow impatient easily, this road trip can quickly become a headache. When you have a Chevy vehicle equipped with a Wi-Fi hotspot, your passengers can connect up to seven devices to the Wi-Fi.

This is great news for big families, as everyone can plug into their own interests. For example, one child can watch a movie on their tablet, while one of your older kids can use their mobile phone to play a game, browse social media, or listen to music. Thanks to the connectivity that Chevy’s in-vehicle Wi-Fi offers, you can

Provides Wi-Fi Access in Case of a Power Outage or Other Unexpected Scenarios

Another benefit of Chevy’s in-vehicle Wi-Fi is that it provides Wi-Fi access in case of a power outage. In the storm-prone city of Crestview, having this safeguard can be beneficial during the rainy season. You can use the vehicle’s Wi-Fi to stay up-to-date with current news and communicate with family members and friends on social media platforms.

Chevy’s in-vehicle Wi-Fi isn’t only helpful during power outages. It has a range of up to 50 feet, so you and your coworkers may use it on job sites that may not have reliable Wi-Fi access. You can remain in touch with your supervisor and look up information as it relates to your tasks. You can also use your in-car Wi-Fi to submit assignments on time when you’re working remotely and may not otherwise have access to a reliable internet connection.

Creates a Stronger Connection

In many cases, Chevy’s in-vehicle Wi-Fi provides convenience in comparison to other options. The bandwidth and signal quality is often superior to other Wi-Fi options while you’re on the go. While some people have relied on activating their phones as hotspots or using portable hotspots to access the internet while they’re in the car, these options may not be as reliable. Chevy’s in-vehicle Wi-Fi is powerful and can offer a better connection even in areas that may otherwise have spotty coverage.

How Much Does Chevy’s In-Vehicle Wi-Fi Cost?

The hotspot that comes with Chevy’s in-vehicle Wi-Fi will provide varying internet service depending on your location and other conditions. Before you can use the Wi-Fi, you need to have an active service plan and a paid data plan with AT&T. Chevy provides its in-car Wi-Fi through OnStar, which offers users a free trial. Once your free trial expires, you can sign up for the OnStar Connected Vehicle Plan, which you might get for as little as $24.99 per month.

Can You Use Chevy’s In-Vehicle Wi-Fi When the Car Is Off?

Yes, you can use Chevy’s in-vehicle Wi-Fi when the engine is off, but the car itself can’t be completely off. Instead, you have to turn on “Accessory Mode” to access the Wi-Fi capabilities. This is the same mode that lets you access the windshield wipers, the radio, and other features without having the engine running. Turn on “Accessory Mode” by pushing the “Engine Start/Stop” button. Push this button by itself, and refrain from pushing the brake pedal like you would if you were turning the engine into the “On” position.

When you activate “Accessory Mode,” you can use the in-vehicle Wi-Fi just like you’d be able to use it if you were driving down the highway. You may want to use Wi-Fi in “Accessory Mode” sparingly, as using it excessively may cause the battery to drain.

After learning about Chevy’s in-vehicle Wi-Fi, you may want to experience these benefits yourself. You can head to our dealership in Crestview to explore our inventory of new vehicles and used vehicles. While you’re here, you can test drive any vehicle that catches your attention. Not only can you get a feel for its driving performance, but you can also experience the car display and interior features for yourself.

After a few firsthand experiences with a brand-new Chevy vehicle, you may want to take one home for yourself. Crestview, FL, Pensacola, FL, and the entire Emerald Coast area are great places to get out on the road with your family. One of our sales agents will help you finalize your deal so you can drive off with your innovative new car or truck. Contact us today to get in touch or give us a call.

Chevy Equinox Interior by Hani Arif is licensed with CC BY 2.0