The convenience of starting your car from the warmth of your home or office on a chilly morning is undeniably appealing. Remote start, once a luxury feature, is becoming increasingly common. But when it comes to Toyota, a leading automotive brand known for reliability and innovation, the question remains: do all Toyota vehicles come equipped with a remote start app? The answer, as with many things in the automotive world, is a bit more nuanced than a simple yes or no.
Understanding Toyota’s Connected Services
Toyota’s approach to remote start is deeply intertwined with its suite of connected services. These services, often bundled under names like Toyota Remote Connect and Toyota Connected Services, provide a range of features accessible through a smartphone app. However, access to these features, including remote start, depends on several factors.
These factors include the model year of the vehicle, the specific trim level, and whether the owner has an active subscription to the required connected services. Not every Toyota rolling off the assembly line automatically comes with the ability to remotely start using a mobile app.
The technology underpinning these features involves cellular connectivity built into the vehicle. This allows the car to communicate with Toyota’s servers and, in turn, with the user’s smartphone app.
Toyota Remote Connect: The Key to Remote Start
Toyota Remote Connect is the service that primarily enables remote start functionality via a smartphone app. It’s part of a broader package of connected services, but it’s the critical component for remote starting your engine and controlling certain vehicle functions remotely.
Remote Connect allows you to start or stop your engine, lock or unlock doors, check vehicle status, and even locate your parked vehicle, all from your smartphone. However, it’s essential to note that Remote Connect is not a standard feature on all Toyota models.
The availability of Remote Connect depends on the vehicle’s trim level and model year. Typically, higher trim levels are more likely to include Remote Connect as a standard feature or as an available option.
The Role of Subscription Services
Even if your Toyota is equipped with the hardware and software necessary for Remote Connect, you’ll likely need an active subscription to use the remote start feature via the app after a trial period. Toyota typically offers a trial period of Remote Connect, which can range from a few months to several years, depending on the vehicle.
Once the trial period expires, you’ll need to subscribe to continue using the Remote Connect services. The subscription costs vary depending on the package you choose and the length of the subscription.
It’s crucial to understand the subscription model, as it impacts the long-term cost of ownership. While the initial purchase price of the vehicle might seem appealing, the recurring subscription fees for connected services can add up over time.
Factors Determining Remote Start App Availability
Several factors dictate whether your Toyota has access to remote start functionality through a dedicated app. Understanding these factors is crucial for anyone considering buying a new or used Toyota.
Model Year and Trim Level Variations
The most significant determinants are the model year and trim level of the Toyota in question. Newer models are generally more likely to have remote start capabilities through the app, but even within the same model year, the trim level plays a crucial role.
Higher trim levels, such as the XLE, Limited, or Platinum, often include Remote Connect as a standard feature or as part of a package. Lower trim levels, like the base LE or SE, may not offer Remote Connect at all, or it might be available only as an optional upgrade.
It’s essential to carefully review the specifications of the specific Toyota model and trim level you are interested in to determine if it includes Remote Connect and remote start functionality.
Smart Key Fob Remote Start
Even if a Toyota model doesn’t come with app-based remote start, many models offer remote start functionality through the key fob. This is a crucial distinction. The key fob method usually involves pressing the lock button a specific number of times, followed by a press and hold of the start button.
While key fob remote start offers convenience, it has limitations compared to the app-based system. The key fob range is typically shorter, and you don’t have access to the other connected services features, such as checking vehicle status or locating your car.
The key fob remote start feature is often standard on many Toyota models, even if app-based remote start requires a subscription.
Aftermarket Remote Start Options
If your Toyota doesn’t have factory-installed remote start capabilities, either through the app or the key fob, you can explore aftermarket remote start systems. These systems are installed by third-party vendors and can provide remote start functionality, often with features similar to the factory systems.
However, it’s crucial to choose a reputable installer and a high-quality aftermarket system to ensure proper integration with your vehicle’s electronics. A poorly installed aftermarket system can cause electrical problems or even void your vehicle’s warranty.
Before opting for an aftermarket system, research the available options and read reviews from other Toyota owners. Consider factors such as range, features, and installation costs.
Navigating Toyota’s Connected Services Packages
Toyota’s connected services packages can be confusing, with different names and features depending on the model year and region. It’s essential to understand the different packages and what they offer to make an informed decision.
Understanding Different Packages and Their Features
Toyota Remote Connect is often bundled with other connected services, such as Safety Connect, Service Connect, and Wi-Fi Connect. Each of these services offers different features and benefits.
- Safety Connect: Provides emergency assistance, roadside assistance, and automatic collision notification.
- Service Connect: Offers vehicle health reports, maintenance alerts, and service scheduling.
- Wi-Fi Connect: Turns your Toyota into a mobile hotspot, allowing you to connect your devices to the internet.
When subscribing to connected services, consider which features are most important to you and choose a package that includes them. You may be able to subscribe to individual services or bundle them together for a discounted price.
Checking Your Vehicle’s Compatibility
The easiest way to determine if your Toyota is compatible with Remote Connect and app-based remote start is to check the vehicle’s specifications or contact your local Toyota dealer. You can also use Toyota’s online vehicle configurator to see which features are available on different models and trim levels.
Another way to check compatibility is to download the Toyota app and enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The app will then display the available connected services for your vehicle.
The Future of Remote Start in Toyota Vehicles
Toyota continues to evolve its connected services and remote start capabilities. As technology advances, we can expect to see more Toyota vehicles equipped with app-based remote start as a standard feature.
Emerging Trends and Technologies
The trend toward connected vehicles is only going to accelerate in the coming years. Toyota is investing heavily in developing new technologies and features for its connected services platform.
We can expect to see more advanced features, such as personalized settings, over-the-air software updates, and integration with smart home devices. Remote start will likely become even more seamless and integrated with other vehicle functions.
The Long-Term Vision
Toyota’s long-term vision is to create a fully connected driving experience that enhances safety, convenience, and enjoyment. Remote start is just one piece of this vision, but it’s a crucial element in providing a seamless and user-friendly experience for Toyota owners.
Ultimately, the goal is to make driving a Toyota as easy and enjoyable as possible, and connected services like Remote Connect play a significant role in achieving that goal.
In conclusion, not all Toyotas have a remote start app as a standard feature. The availability depends on the model year, trim level, and subscription to Toyota’s Remote Connect service. While key fob remote start is more commonly available, the app-based system offers greater convenience and features. When considering a Toyota, carefully research the specific model and trim to understand its remote start capabilities and associated subscription costs.
Do all new Toyota vehicles come with a remote start app feature?
Unfortunately, not all new Toyota vehicles come standard with a remote start app feature. While Toyota has been increasingly integrating connected services into their vehicles, remote start functionality via a smartphone app typically requires a specific trim level or an optional subscription to Toyota’s Connected Services. Availability also depends on the model year of the vehicle, with newer models generally having more comprehensive connectivity options than older ones.
To determine if a specific new Toyota vehicle includes remote start via an app, it’s best to consult the vehicle’s specifications on Toyota’s official website or check with a local Toyota dealership. They can provide accurate information regarding the specific features included in each trim level and whether a subscription is required to activate remote start functionality through the Toyota app.
What is Toyota’s Connected Services and how does it relate to remote start?
Toyota Connected Services is a suite of features offered on many newer Toyota vehicles, designed to enhance the driving experience through connectivity. This suite often includes functionalities such as remote start, vehicle health reports, safety connect (automatic collision notification and emergency assistance), Wi-Fi hotspot, and destination assist. The availability of these services varies depending on the vehicle model, trim level, and subscription package.
Remote start functionality, in particular, is often a component of Toyota Connected Services. This means that users can start their vehicle remotely using the Toyota app on their smartphone. However, accessing and using remote start typically requires an active subscription to a specific Connected Services package, as the feature relies on cellular data to communicate with the vehicle.
How do I check if my current Toyota has remote start capabilities via the Toyota app?
The easiest way to determine if your current Toyota has remote start capabilities via the Toyota app is to download the Toyota app and attempt to enroll your vehicle. During the enrollment process, the app will typically indicate which connected services are available for your specific vehicle identification number (VIN). If remote start is supported, it will appear as an option within the app.
Alternatively, you can also check your vehicle’s owner’s manual or contact your local Toyota dealership. The owner’s manual should outline the available features and subscription requirements for your specific model year and trim level. A Toyota service advisor at the dealership can also provide definitive information about your vehicle’s connectivity capabilities and whether a subscription is required for remote start.
What are the different subscription packages offered by Toyota that include remote start?
Toyota offers various subscription packages within its Connected Services, and the specific names and features of these packages can change over time. Generally, packages that include remote start are often labeled as “Remote Connect,” “Safety Connect,” or similar variations. These packages usually bundle remote start with other features like vehicle status alerts, guest driver monitor, and remote door lock/unlock.
It is essential to carefully review the details of each package offered for your vehicle model and year to determine which includes remote start and which other features are bundled with it. Toyota’s website and your local dealership are the best resources for understanding the current subscription options and their associated costs, ensuring you choose the package that best suits your needs.
Is there a free trial period for Toyota’s Connected Services, including remote start?
Yes, Toyota often includes a complimentary trial period for its Connected Services, including the remote start feature, on new vehicles. The length of this trial period can vary depending on the model year and specific promotions offered by Toyota. It’s typically a few months to a year, allowing owners to experience the benefits of the connected services before deciding whether to subscribe.
During the trial period, you can download the Toyota app and enroll your vehicle to access the features included in the trial package. This provides a valuable opportunity to test the remote start functionality and other connected services to assess their value and integration into your daily driving routine. Be sure to note the expiration date of the trial period to avoid any unexpected service interruptions.
What are the alternative ways to remotely start a Toyota if it doesn’t have an app-based remote start feature?
If your Toyota does not have the app-based remote start feature, there are still other options for remote starting your vehicle. Many Toyota vehicles come equipped with a key fob that includes a remote start button, allowing you to start the engine from a distance without using a smartphone. This functionality is often standard on higher trim levels.
Additionally, you might be able to install an aftermarket remote start system. These systems can be professionally installed and offer similar functionality to the factory-installed remote start, often at a lower cost than subscribing to Toyota’s Connected Services. However, it’s crucial to choose a reputable installer and ensure that the aftermarket system is compatible with your vehicle’s electrical system to avoid any potential issues.
What happens if I cancel my Toyota Connected Services subscription after the trial period?
If you cancel your Toyota Connected Services subscription after the trial period ends, you will lose access to all the features included in that subscription package, including remote start via the Toyota app. The app will no longer be able to communicate with your vehicle, and the remote start functionality will be disabled.
However, other basic functionalities of your vehicle, such as driving and using the radio, will not be affected. The loss of access only pertains to the connected services that rely on cellular data and the Toyota app. You may still be able to use any remote start capabilities offered by the key fob, if your vehicle is equipped with that feature.