A remote start is a helpful feature, especially in extremely cold or warm weather, as it lets you prepare your vehicle before you enter it. For example, you can use it to activate your window defrosters or turn on your A/C remotely. But like other advanced features, a remote start might not work due to various reasons.
The remote start can fail due to different reasons, like a dead battery and a faulty hood pin. Coolant and oil pressure problems can also disable it. Let’s discuss the 11 possible causes why your remote start won’t work.
The remote starter is equipped with a battery that can drain over time. If your car remote is not working, the battery might not have enough energy to power it.
Fortunately, many aftermarket remote and key fob batteries are available on the market, so it’s easy to find one for your ride. You might just need to have them programmed for your ride.
If your remote start isn’t working, you might not be using it correctly. Check the manual, and make sure you’re doing it correctly.
If you bought a new one, remember that different remote starter brands have different controls. For example, some remote starter buttons need to be pressed several times, while others work with one press.
Your remote start also wouldn’t work if your vehicle’s starter has a problem. So the next time you have problems starting your vehicle, make sure to check other components like the starter. You might have just overlooked the root cause of the issue.
Most vehicles equipped with a remote start have a safety feature called “valet mode.” This mode allows drivers to disable all system features except lock and unlock.
If your vehicle has a valet mode, it might be activated if your parking lights flash when locking or unlocking your ride. The remote start won’t work until you deactivate it.
Remote start is disabled when your ride’s gear is set to “Park.” When the vehicle’s transmission is set to “Park”, its wheels wouldn’t turn because it’s locked. The feature is helpful when the vehicle is on a hill or slope.
Remote start won’t work if your key fob is in your vehicle, so make sure you take it with you when you leave your ride. Otherwise, you might get locked out of your car.
Using the remote start feature several times consecutively can disable it. To fix the issue, get in the vehicle and manually turn on your ignition. Then, turn it off, get out of your car, and use the remote start feature again. If it still doesn’t work, seek the help of a professional.
Your vehicle might have a safety feature that disables remote start when it detects that the hood is unlatched. Make sure your hood is secure and inspect it for damage. Broken pins or tilted switches can also cause remote start issues.
The remote start won’t work while the hazard lights are on, so you’ll need to turn them off to use the feature. Hazard lights alert other drivers that your vehicle has turned into a temporary traffic hazard. For example, you need to pull over because of a blown tire.
High coolant temperature and low oil pressure can cause various vehicle issues—including a non-functioning remote starter.
If a warning light on your dash is on, check your ride’s coolant and oil pressure. If they’re not at ideal levels, fixing them might make your remote start working again.
Some remote starters have a switch that can disable it. It’s usually in a fusebox or under the dash. If it’s off, simply flip it “on” to activate the remote start.
Your remote starter and key fob must sync with your ride’s data module. They must also be programmed with vehicle-specific software.
If something goes wrong in the installation process, your starter might not work. In some cases, the data module could lose its programming data, disabling remote start and causing other problems.
Aside from the items mentioned above, there can still be a lot of reasons why your remote start won’t work. For example, if your vehicle’s powertrain control module (PCM) logged an error code and the check engine light illuminates, your remote start can be disabled. It can be difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of the issue, so it’s best to take your ride to an auto repair shop once you notice issues with your remote start.
If your vehicle’s powertrain control module (PCM) logged an error code and the check engine light illuminates, your remote start can be disabled.
–Anthony Harlin, ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician
Yes, you can replace your remote start fob, but make sure the replacement is compatible with your ride’s system.
A short-range non-luxury car remote start fob costs between $250 and $400. That can increase due to installation and programming costs, which can vary depending on the rates in your area. Taxes and related repairs can also affect the price.
If you’re unsure about anything, consult a trusted mechanic. You can also visit your dealership to know more about what remote starter fits your ride.
A number of potential reasons your remote start isn’t working can be solved by replacing the affected parts. For instance, if your starter isn’t working properly, it might be time to replace it. Otherwise, it’ll affect getting your vehicle to start at all. Thankfully, CarParts.com is here to help if you need any replacement parts.
Ordering from CarParts.com is simple and easy, taking only a few quick clicks. Our easy-to-navigate website has a built-in vehicle selector where you can enter your vehicle’s year, make, and model so you can see only parts that will fit your vehicle. We want you to purchase with confidence, which is why we implement a 60-day return policy and a price-match guarantee on all the parts we offer. If you have any questions or concerns, reach out to our friendly and helpful customer service team.
Get your remote start working again soon. Pick out a new starter or other parts and order from CarParts.com today.
Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.