Verizon Vehicle can turn any junker into a connected car

Verizon is bringing fancy diagnostics and the Internet to almost any car already on the road.

At the North American International Auto Show, Verizon announced Verizon Vehicle, an aftermarket connected car service that works with any car model since 1996 (roughly 9,000 models).

Through an onboard diagnostics (OBD) reader that plugs into the car’s diagnostics port and a two-way Bluetooth speaker, Verizon Vehicle tracks problems with the car (engine, tires, etc.) and alerts the driver through the companion mobile app or email. It also provides roadside assistance, emergency help, a mechanic’s hotline, and more with location accuracy by tapping into the smartphone’s GPS.

Drivers can sign up for Verizon Vehicle on a subscription basis and use it regardless of their smartphone’s mobile carrier.

Verizon Vehicle is now available for preorder before it starts shipping on April 10. It will cost $15 per month (including hardware) for the first car, and $13 for each additional one. To compare, Automatic’s car adapter that runs diagnostics and connects to the driver’s phone for alerts, costs a flat $100, with no subscription fees.