Cars With Remote Start: A Must-Have Feature for Extreme Temperatures

By Renee Valdes 07/26/2023 1:30pm

Quick Facts About Remote Start

Remote engine start is a necessity for many drivers in very cold and very hot climates.
Factory-installed remote start is available across most makes and models.
Aftermarket remote-start kits are available for almost any vehicle with an automatic transmission built after the 2000 model year.

For those living in an area where heated seats or air conditioning is a must-have feature, remote engine start (RES) should be on their “gotta have it” list. Why? Because it allows you to start your car’s engine from anywhere within range of your key fob.

Being able to warm up a car’s engine in frigid temperatures remotely comes in handy and saves some wear and tear on the engine and transmission. However, the real benefit lies in prewarming the car’s cabin on bitterly cold days and precooling it on hot ones. Here, we will define remote start, explain how it works, provide a list of carmakers offering it, and finally, give our two cents regarding its value. Please use the following jump links to skip ahead.

What Is Remote Start?

Remote start allows you to start your car’s engine with the key fob from anywhere within the fob’s range: inside your home or office, across a parking lot, or from anywhere within reach of the fob-to-car signal. Not only can it start the engine, but in doing so, it engages the vehicle’s climate control. Therefore, it can warm up the cabin when it’s cold outside or cool the interior when the temperature is hot. Some RES systems allow your smartphone to act as the transmitter. This functionality may require a paid subscription service through the car manufacturer.

How Does Remote Start Work?

Engaging remote start is easy because, typically, drivers need only press the appropriate button on the fob for two or three seconds to start the engine. Otherwise, the rest might as well be magic. However, read on if your inner geek is screaming for details.

Although operating the RES is quite simple, getting the desired result is rather complex. A control module or receiver is required to capture and translate the fob’s signal. It requires proper wiring into the vehicle’s ignition and starter mechanisms. Moreover, it requires connections to the vehicle’s battery, brake, and tachometer wires. Another RES requirement is a bypass module to initiate the start without setting off vehicle alarms or anti-theft protections.

RES operates over the same radio frequencies as your fob’s remote lock/unlock function. Whether through a separate button on the fob or some manipulation of the lock or unlock buttons, the fob signals the RES control module. Once the control module receives the appropriate signal, it initiates the start sequence as though a key was engaging the ignition.

How to Use Remote Start Key Fob

If you know how to lock and unlock your car’s doors remotely with the key fob, you are halfway to mastering the basics of remote engine start. Different carmakers engineer their fobs differently to engage the car’s engine remotely. Some may also require you to set up remote start or automatic climate-control start in the vehicle’s settings — for example, BMW.

No matter the carmaker or fob (BMW, Ford, Lincoln, and Volkswagen being the exceptions.), the procedure for engaging remote start begins with pressing the fob’s “Lock” button once. Doing so ensures the car is locked, as well as setting up the fob for its specific remote-start sequence. For the sake of brevity, we have left that first press-lock step out of the sequence for each carmaker. However, pressing the “Lock” button is step one for all but BMW. You must press it twice for Ford, Lincoln, and VW.

Pro Tip: Some automakers (see below) offer RES only through a connected subscription service, while others offer RES with a fob and as a function of a connected subscription. Often where such services are concerned, RES operation is through the connection app on a smartphone. To remote start a car after opening a connected app is usually achieved by making contact with a virtual “Start” button on the screen. We have not included fob instructions for those carmakers only offering RES by subscription.

Remote Start Fob Instructions by Automaker

Here are the steps for activating remote engine start, by carmaker:

Acura:

Press and hold the “Engine” button for a 3-count.
The green light on the fob means the engine started, while a blinking red light means the fob is out of range. The engine will run for about 10 minutes on its own.

BMW

Press the “Lock” button three times in quick succession.
The BMW’s lights will flash, and then the engine will engage. It will run for about 15 minutes on its own.

Buick/Infiniti/Nissan

Press and hold the “Remote Start (circling arrow icon)” button for a 3-count.
The vehicle’s lights will flash, and the engine will start. It will run for about 10 minutes on its own.

Cadillac

Double press the “Remote Start (circling arrow icon with 2X in the center)” button.
The Cadillac’s lights will flash as the engine engages. It will run for 15 to 20 minutes on its own.

Chevrolet/GMC/Honda

Press the “Remote Start (circling arrow icon)” button for a 4-count.
The lights will flash, and the engine will engage. It will run for 15 minutes on its own.

Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/Ram

Double press the “Remote Start (circling arrow icon with 2X in the center)” button, holding it for a 2-count the second time.
The signal lights will flash, and the engine will engage. It will run for about 15 minutes on its own.

Ford/Lincoln/Volkswagen

Press the “Lock” button twice.
Double press the “Remote Start (circling arrow icon with 2X in the center)” button.
The signal lights will flash twice, and the engine will engage. Using the vehicle’s settings, you can set the duration the engine will run from five to 15 minutes (Ford/Lincoln) or 10 minutes (Volkswagen).

Hyundai

Press the “Remote Start (circling arrow icon)” button for a 4-count.
The small red signal light on the top of the remote will flash, the signal lights on the Hyundai will flash, and the engine will start. It will run on its own for 10 minutes.

Kia

Press the “Remote Start (circling arrow icon)” button for a two-count.
The signal lights will flash, and the engine will engage. It will run on its own for about 10 minutes.

Subaru

Double press the “Remote Start (circling arrow icon)” button.
The signal lights will flash, the horn will beep, and the engine will engage. It will run on its own for 20 minutes.

Remote Start in Extreme Temperatures

Remote start is one of those convenience features that doesn’t help your car operate more safely or efficiently but does enhance the passenger experience. Let’s face it: Having the cabin temperature exactly where you want it every time you enter your car is convenient. However, remote start shines its brightest in outrageously cold or hot temperatures. In other words, on those tongue-stuck-to-the-flagpole or fry-an-egg-on-the-sidewalk days.

Remote Start in Cold Weather

You can appreciate remote car starting if you’ve ever entered your vehicle on a frigid morning and had to drive five miles before the heater finally kicked in. It allows the climate system to circulate warm air into the car, making it toasty when you are ready to go. However, remote start benefits in other ways, too.

You never need to leave your car running with the key or fob in it, inviting theft.
A heated cabin brings windshield and window glass heating, making snow and ice removal easier.
Driving a car with a cold engine adds extra wear and tear to engine components. Allowing the fluids to warm up before driving reduces stress on many engine components.

RELATED: The Case for Winter Tires

Remote Start in Hot Weather

Entering your vehicle on a super-hot day is like climbing into an oven. That’s literally, not figuratively. As the motionless air in your car heats up, the interior temperature can be 20 to 30 degrees hotter than the ambient outside temperature. Remotely starting your vehicle lets the climate control re-establish a comfortable temperature level. There are other advantages of remote start on a steamy day:

You don’t need to roll down the windows to let the car “air out” before driving it.
Surfaces like the steering wheel and leather or vinyl seats don’t burn you.
Running the engine for a few minutes before driving allows the fluids to warm, lubricating the engine and causing less wear on the engine components.

Is Remote Start Safe?

The sad truth is that just about any digitally connected device is hackable. However, every remote start system uses a separate and unique radio frequency, which is usually encrypted to defeat hacking. In turn, the RES system has its security protocol. Typically, it includes securing the doors when the RES is engaged to prevent a third party from entering the vehicle without the appropriate key fob. Furthermore, the RES system will shut down if a third party gains entry and attempts to drive the car.

RES systems are programmed to shut the engine down after a preset time if the operator with a valid key fob doesn’t enter the car. This function is convenient if you become distracted after remote starting the car and forget it is sitting somewhere with the engine running.

Pro Tip: Drivers should follow common-sense best-safety practices. For example, do not engage the RES when the vehicle is in a small, enclosed space, such as an attached garage, to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.

Which New Cars, Trucks, and SUVs Offer Remote Start?

Usually, vehicles equipped with a manual transmission do not offer RES. Likewise, fully electric vehicles (EVs) don’t have remote start systems. However, most EVs have available or standard remote climate control to warm or cool the cabin before entering. Where we list every model in a brand as having RES, it doesn’t include any of the brand’s EVs.

Most mainstream carmakers have models for sale with remote start functionality at some trim level. You are less likely to find RES on the lower grades of entry-level models. But even the $19,820 Nissan Versa SR has it. Here’s a rundown of mainstream brands with remote start features:

Acura: Every 2023 model has RES, except the NSX.
Audi: Oddly, it doesn’t offer RES.
BMW: Every 2023 BMW has it available.
Buick: Every 2023 model has it available.
Cadillac: Every 2023 model offers it.
Chevrolet: Every 2023 model has it available.
Chrysler: Both 2023 models have it available.
Dodge: All 2023 models have it available.
Ford: It’s available on all 2023 models.
Genesis: Only offers RES through a connected services subscription.
GMC: All 2023 models have it available.
Honda: All 2023 models have it available.
Hyundai: Any model and trim with Hyundai Digital Key have RES.
Infiniti: Q50, QX55, and QX60
Jeep: Every 2023 model has it available.
Kia: All 2023 models have it available.
Lexus: Offers RES through a paid subscription.
Lincoln: Every 2023 model offers RES.
Mazda: Only offers RES through a connected services subscription.
Mercedes-Benz: Only offers RES through a subscription.
Mini: Aftermarket-only for some automatic transmission models.
Mitsubishi: Outlander and Eclipse Cross require a connected services subscription.
Nissan: All 2023 models have it available, except the Z and GT-R.
Porsche: Offers RES through a connected subscription on some models.
Ram: Every 2023 Ram model has it standard.
Subaru: Every 2023 model has remote start available. The BRZ requires a connected services subscription.
Toyota: Only offers RES through a connected services subscription.
Volkswagen: All 2023 models offer remote start, except the Golf R. The Golf GTI requires a connected services subscription.
Volvo: RES is only available through a paid subscription.

Can You Add Remote Start to Your Current Car?

Used cars built this century (2000 or later) may have manufacturer-made RES kits available through a local dealer’s parts department. So, buying the factory kit is the way to go if RES was available on your model when new.

Alternatively, there are many aftermarket kits on the market. One advantage of an aftermarket RES system is its range. Often, these kits can transmit signals farther than the typical factory-installed system in new cars. Those rarely have a range beyond 150 to 200 feet or so. An aftermarket system can usually reach 1,000 feet or more, and some kits estimate their reach in miles.

You’ll find choices ranging from about $60 for a basic kit to $600-plus for more sophisticated systems.

Where to Buy a Remote Car Starter

If you decide to add an RES function to your current car and want to shop the aftermarket rather than buy one from a franchised car dealer’s parts department, there are plenty of choices. Here are some retailers that market RES kits:

Best Buy
Amazon
Crutchfield
Walmart
eBay
Lowe’s

Can You Install a Remote Start Kit Yourself?

Intrepid backyard mechanics or people experienced with electrical wiring diagrams may be able to install a RES. However, modifying your vehicle’s electrical system is a significant and tricky undertaking. Our advice is to have a professional install it. Installation costs will average around $200, but it depends on the sophistication of the RES system. Some retailers like Best Buy and Walmart sell and install RES systems. A retailer offering installation might be an affordable alternative to doing the work yourself.

Is Remote Start Worth It?

What determines the worth of anything is how much you are willing to pay for it. In other words, how much value does it hold for you? If you live in San Diego, California, where it seems to be 70 degrees Fahrenheit all day long every day of the year, you probably won’t find much value in RES.

On the other hand, in Mesa, Arizona, residents will appreciate running the air conditioning before entering the car because of consistently high temperatures. Likewise, running the heater and defroster for a few minutes is desirable before getting behind the wheel in bitterly cold winter temperatures in Minot, North Dakota.

Chances are, you don’t live in either of these extremes. However, the hotter and colder the temperatures are where you live, the more value you’ll receive from a remote-engine-start system.