General Motors announced that all 2014 Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac models equipped with the OnStar service can now get the new RemoteLink Key Fob Services for five years. This smartphone app allows you to lock and unlock the vehicle, activate the horn and headlights, and start the engine, all remotely, obviously.

This system comes standard as part of the OnStar service, even if you don’t want to pay for other OnStar services. GM realized that although it is kind of cool to be able to start your car via your mobile phone, nobody’s going to pay for such service. That said, like 99 percent of the apps today, this one too offers in-app purchases.

Additional services that paid subscriber to OnStar will get with the RemoteLink app include monitoring the status of the vehicle’s operating systems, including remaining oil life, fuel level range in miles, tire pressure, and miles per gallon. It also includes a one-touch connection to an OnStar Advisor for a simple request or emergency need.

One big advantage of this system over the remote start function available with traditional key fobs is that you don’t have to be near the vehicle for it to work. You can start the car and let it warm up while you are leaving the office, or as your plane is landing and that car is in the parking lot. It can also become handy for those suffering from OCD – you know, the type that always have to go back and check if they have locked the car!