Determining whether your car is equipped with remote start can be trickier than you might think. Many modern vehicles offer it as an optional feature, and sometimes it’s even included in specific trim levels or packages. This comprehensive guide will walk you through various ways to identify if your car boasts the convenience of remote start, saving you from shivering on frosty mornings or sweating in scorching summers.
Checking Your Key Fob for Remote Start Functionality
The most obvious place to start your investigation is your key fob. Examine it closely for a dedicated remote start button. This button is usually distinct from the lock, unlock, and panic buttons, and often features a circular arrow symbol (similar to a recycle symbol) or the word “Start” clearly labeled.
If you spot such a button, congratulations! There’s a strong possibility your car has remote start. However, don’t jump to conclusions just yet. Some manufacturers include the remote start button on all key fobs, even if the car doesn’t actually have the feature. The button might be there, but inactive.
To test the button, ensure your car is in Park (or Neutral for manual transmissions), and all doors are closed and locked. Press the remote start button once, or in some cases, twice in quick succession. Pay close attention to the car’s response. Did the engine start? Did the parking lights flash? Did you hear a distinct clicking sound? A successful start indicates that the remote start system is functional.
If nothing happens after pressing the button, it doesn’t necessarily mean your car lacks remote start. Low battery in the key fob is a common culprit. Try replacing the battery and repeating the test. Also, ensure you are within the specified range for the remote start system to function, typically a few hundred feet. Obstructions like walls and buildings can shorten the range.
Sometimes, the remote start system is disabled in the vehicle’s settings. Refer to your owner’s manual (we’ll cover that shortly) for instructions on how to enable it.
Consulting Your Owner’s Manual and Vehicle Documentation
Your owner’s manual is a treasure trove of information about your car’s features and functions. Locate your owner’s manual and carefully read the section on starting and operating the vehicle. Look for specific mentions of remote start, along with instructions on how to use it and any limitations.
The owner’s manual will also outline any prerequisites for remote start to function, such as a fully charged battery, all doors being closed and locked, and the hood being securely latched. Some vehicles also require the security system to be disarmed before remote start will work.
If you don’t have a physical copy of your owner’s manual, don’t despair! Most manufacturers offer digital versions of their manuals on their websites. Simply visit the manufacturer’s website and search for your vehicle’s year, make, and model. You should be able to download a PDF version of the owner’s manual for free.
Beyond the owner’s manual, check any other documentation you received when you purchased the vehicle, such as the window sticker (Monroney sticker) or sales brochure. These documents often list optional features and packages, and remote start might be included.
Examining Your Car’s Dashboard and Instrument Cluster
Some vehicles feature visual cues on the dashboard or instrument cluster to indicate the presence of remote start. Look for a remote start icon that illuminates when the car is started using the remote start function. This icon might be a stylized image of a key fob with a circular arrow, or simply the word “Remote Start.”
The location of this icon can vary depending on the make and model of your car. It might be integrated into the speedometer or tachometer, or displayed on a digital information screen. Consult your owner’s manual to identify the location of the remote start indicator.
Some newer vehicles also display messages on the infotainment screen to confirm that the engine has been started remotely. These messages might say something like “Remote Start Active” or “Engine Started Remotely.”
Keep in mind that the absence of a remote start indicator on the dashboard or instrument cluster doesn’t definitively mean your car lacks the feature. Some manufacturers don’t include such an indicator, even if the car is equipped with remote start.
Checking Your Vehicle’s Settings Menu
Many modern vehicles feature a settings menu accessible through the infotainment screen or instrument cluster. This menu allows you to customize various vehicle functions, including remote start.
Navigate through the settings menu and look for options related to remote start. The exact location of these options will vary depending on the make and model of your car, but they might be located under sections like “Vehicle Settings,” “Comfort Settings,” or “Key Fob Settings.”
In the settings menu, you might find options to enable or disable remote start, adjust the engine run time (the duration the engine will run after being started remotely), and customize other settings related to the remote start system.
If you find remote start options in the settings menu, it’s a strong indication that your car is equipped with the feature. However, if the options are grayed out or unavailable, it might mean that the remote start system is disabled or malfunctioning.
Contacting Your Car Dealership or Manufacturer
If you’ve exhausted all other options and you’re still unsure whether your car has remote start, the best course of action is to contact your car dealership or the manufacturer directly.
Provide them with your vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). The VIN is a unique 17-character code that identifies your car. It can be found on the driver’s side dashboard (visible through the windshield), on your car’s registration documents, or on your insurance card.
The dealership or manufacturer can use the VIN to look up your car’s original build sheet, which lists all the features and options that were installed at the factory. This will definitively tell you whether or not your car was originally equipped with remote start.
If your car was not originally equipped with remote start, the dealership might be able to install an aftermarket remote start system. However, be sure to choose a reputable installer and ensure that the system is compatible with your car’s security system and other features.
Looking for Aftermarket Remote Start Systems
If your car doesn’t have factory-installed remote start, you can still enjoy the convenience of this feature by installing an aftermarket system. These systems are installed by professional technicians and can be added to most vehicles.
There are many different aftermarket remote start systems available, ranging from basic models that simply start the engine to more advanced systems that offer features like smartphone control, GPS tracking, and security alerts.
When choosing an aftermarket remote start system, it’s important to consider your budget, your needs, and the compatibility of the system with your car. Be sure to choose a reputable brand and have the system installed by a qualified technician.
Before installing an aftermarket remote start system, research potential impacts on your vehicle’s warranty. Some manufacturers may void certain warranty provisions if aftermarket accessories are installed.
Identifying Remote Start Antennas and Modules
Sometimes, you can visually identify the presence of a remote start system by looking for the antenna or module associated with it. The antenna is typically a small, black box mounted on the windshield or dashboard. It receives the signal from the key fob and transmits it to the remote start module.
The remote start module is usually hidden under the dashboard or in the engine compartment. It’s the brains of the remote start system and controls the starting and stopping of the engine.
If you can locate either the antenna or the module, it’s a strong indication that your car has a remote start system, either factory-installed or aftermarket.
However, keep in mind that some aftermarket remote start systems integrate the antenna into the module, making it more difficult to identify.
Listening for Remote Start Sounds
Pay attention to the sounds your car makes when you attempt to start it remotely. A successful remote start will often be accompanied by a distinct clicking sound from the starter motor, followed by the engine starting.
If you only hear the clicking sound but the engine doesn’t start, it could indicate a problem with the remote start system, such as a weak battery or a faulty starter motor.
In some cases, the car might honk the horn or flash the lights to indicate that the remote start command has been received.
However, the absence of any sounds doesn’t necessarily mean your car lacks remote start. Some systems are designed to be quiet and unobtrusive.
Understanding Different Types of Remote Start Systems
There are several different types of remote start systems available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
One-way remote start systems are the most basic type. They allow you to start the engine remotely using the key fob, but they don’t provide any feedback to confirm that the engine has started.
Two-way remote start systems offer more advanced features. They provide feedback to the key fob to confirm that the engine has started, and they may also display other information, such as the engine temperature and battery voltage.
Smartphone-controlled remote start systems are the most advanced type. They allow you to start the engine remotely using your smartphone, and they may also offer features like GPS tracking, security alerts, and remote door locking and unlocking.
The type of remote start system installed in your car will affect how it operates and the features it offers. Understanding the different types of systems can help you troubleshoot any problems you might encounter.
In conclusion, determining whether your car has remote start requires a multi-faceted approach. Start with the obvious – the key fob. Then, delve into your owner’s manual and vehicle settings. When in doubt, leverage the expertise of your dealership or consider aftermarket options. Armed with this knowledge, you can confidently answer the question of whether your car is equipped with this convenient feature.
How can I check my car’s owner’s manual to see if it has remote start?
Consulting your vehicle’s owner’s manual is an excellent first step. Look for a section dedicated to features or accessories, paying close attention to mentions of remote start, remote engine start, or keyless entry systems. Often, the manual will detail how to activate and use the remote start function, along with any specific warnings or limitations.
The owner’s manual might also contain diagrams of your key fob. Check these diagrams carefully for a button specifically labeled for remote start, which is typically a circular arrow. If you find documentation of a remote start feature and your key fob has the corresponding button, chances are your car is equipped with remote start.
What does the remote start button typically look like on the key fob?
The remote start button is usually a distinct icon on your car’s key fob to make it easily identifiable. The most common symbol is a circular arrow forming a complete loop, often with the number “2X” or “1X” inside, indicating the number of times the button needs to be pressed to activate the remote start feature. Some manufacturers may use a simpler symbol, such as a key with an arrow around it, or even a car silhouette with sound waves emanating from it.
Pay close attention to the color and placement of the button as well. It’s frequently a different color than the other buttons on the fob to help users quickly locate it. The location can vary, but it is often placed at the top or bottom of the fob or even on the side for ergonomic purposes. If you’re unsure, compare your key fob to images of key fobs for your car’s make and model found online to confirm if you have a remote start button.
How can I test if my car has remote start if I suspect it does, but I’m not sure?
To test for remote start, ensure your car is in park or neutral with the parking brake engaged. Then, point your key fob at the vehicle from a short distance (usually within 50-100 feet) and press the remote start button, typically twice in quick succession. Listen carefully for the car to start.
If your car is equipped with remote start, it should start the engine after a brief delay. Some vehicles also activate the parking lights or other visual cues to confirm the remote start. If nothing happens after several attempts, and you’re sure you’re pressing the button correctly and within range, your car likely does not have remote start or there may be an issue with the system.
Is it possible that my car has remote start, but it’s not working?
Yes, it’s entirely possible for a car to be equipped with remote start, but the system might not be functioning correctly. There are several common reasons for this. The most frequent culprits include a dead or weak battery in the key fob, a faulty hood latch sensor (preventing start for safety reasons), or a check engine light that is illuminated.
Additionally, aftermarket remote start systems can sometimes develop wiring issues or programming problems. A professional mechanic or automotive electrician can diagnose and repair these issues. They can check the system’s wiring, sensors, and control module to pinpoint the cause of the malfunction and restore the remote start functionality.
Can I add remote start to my car if it didn’t come with it originally?
Yes, you can typically add remote start to a vehicle that didn’t originally come equipped with it. There are two main options: installing an aftermarket remote start system or adding a factory-authorized system (if available for your car’s make and model). Aftermarket systems offer a wide range of features and price points, allowing you to choose one that best suits your needs and budget.
The installation process generally involves connecting the remote start system to your car’s electrical system, which can be complex and requires specialized knowledge. It’s highly recommended to have a professional installer handle the installation to ensure proper functionality and avoid damaging your vehicle’s electrical components. Factory-authorized systems will require you to contact your car manufacturer or dealership and can be costly.
What safety precautions should I take when using remote start?
When using remote start, always ensure your car is parked in a well-ventilated area to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Never use remote start in an enclosed space like a garage. Before activating the system, make sure the gear selector is in “Park” and the parking brake is firmly engaged to prevent accidental movement.
Also, be mindful of your surroundings and avoid using remote start where it might disturb others, particularly in residential areas during early morning or late evening hours. Finally, keep your key fob secure and out of reach of children to prevent them from accidentally starting the vehicle.
How does the range of the remote start affect its usefulness?
The range of your remote start system significantly affects its practicality. A longer range allows you to start your car from a greater distance, such as inside your home or office, giving it more time to warm up or cool down before you get in. Conversely, a shorter range might require you to be closer to the vehicle, which can be inconvenient.
Consider your typical usage scenarios when evaluating remote start range. If you usually park your car a considerable distance away from your home or workplace, a system with extended range is preferable. Many aftermarket systems offer options with varying ranges, while factory-installed systems generally have a set range determined by the vehicle manufacturer. The key fob’s battery health can also impact the effective range, so replacing it regularly can help maintain optimal performance.