We’ve already discussed winterizing your Chevy vehicle here on the blog, but one of the most important features you can have in a vehicle when the temperature starts to drop is a remote start system. Many Chevrolet vehicles come with remote start as a standard or available option, but you can also get it installed after purchase if you decide it’s something you want after the fact. Just reach out to us right here at Jim Glover Chevrolet to discuss adding it to your car, truck or SUV!
If you’ve already got remote start on your Chevy vehicle – or if you’re planning to get it – it’s important to understand how exactly it works, and how to use it. That’s what we’re here to discuss today, as we’re going to give you the full rundown on remote start and how to use it on your Chevy vehicle. So, keep reading to learn more!
What Is Remote Start?
Let’s start with a description of what exactly remote start is, just in case you’re unfamiliar with the technology or would simply like a better understanding. A remote starter is a small electronic device wired into your vehicle’s electrical system and tethered either to your key fob or, sometimes, an app on your smartphone. With the press of a button, it allows you to start the engine of your vehicle from outside the vehicle, allowing you to pre-condition the cabin temperature before you get there.
The most basic use of this feature is to warm up your engine and cabin in the cold winter months, generally enabling you to get into the vehicle and go right away as the windshield should already be defrosted by the time you get behind the wheel. Since older or very basic systems only allow you to turn the engine on, you’ll have to make sure your climate controls are set before you turn the vehicle off. But newer, more advanced systems, when tethered to an app on your phone, allow you to set the climate yourself, meaning you can also cool down the cabin in the hot summer months as well!
Using Remote Start with Your Key Fob
If your Chevy vehicle comes equipped with a remote start system tethered to your key fob, you pretty much just have to press and hold a button to start your vehicle. Here’s a more detailed, step-by-step process for you though.
- Make sure your vehicle is locked, as the remote start system won’t work unless it is.
- Press and hold the Remote Start button for approximately four seconds.
- The button should look like a looping arrow symbol.
- The vehicle’s lights should flash and, if you’re close enough, you’ll hear the engine start.
- Once you arrive at your vehicle and enter, the engine will turn back off and you’ll have to start up the vehicle like normal.
That’s all there is to it! This system is just a way to pre-condition your cabin and warm up your engine, so the ignition isn’t actually engaged like normal. That’s why you’ll have to start the engine up again. You should also keep in mind that the engine will only run for about 10 minutes, so if you get caught up doing something you might have to repeat the process.
Using Remote Start with the myChevrolet App
While the key fob system is quick and easy, utilizing remote start with the myChevrolet app is even more convenient as it allows you to control your vehicle from virtually anywhere, and gives you even more control. Instead of just starting the engine, you’ll be able to adjust the climate controls and more to make sure the cabin is pre-conditioned exactly how you want it. Here’s the process:
- Make sure you have the myChevrolet app downloaded and you’re logged in.
- Press and hold the Start button until you receive a notification that the engine has started!
It’s as easy as that. The app will also give you a countdown until the engine will turn back off, making it easier to understand if and when you might need to restart the process. You can also use the app to lock and unlock your doors or sound and turn off the alarm system, and you should see the different options as far as climate controls as well.
If you have any questions about your remote start system or need to troubleshoot why something might not be working, don’t hesitate to reach out to us right here at Jim Glover Chevrolet today!