Is your Chevy remote start not working? This can be super frustrating, especially on hot or cold days or when you’re running late for work. The remote start feature lets you start your Chevrolet from a distance, so the car is a comfortable temperature when you get in. But sometimes, this handy feature stops working. Let's look at the most common problems and how to fix them.
Common Reasons Your Chevy Remote Start Isn't Working
Before you call for help, try these simple fixes at home. Many Chevy remote start problems have easy solutions that don't need a trip to the dealership. Below are the seven most common issues we see with Chevrolet remote start systems and how you can fix them yourself.
1. Dead or Low Key Fob Battery
The most common reason for remote start failure is a dead or weak battery in your key fob. These batteries usually last two to three years.
Solution: Put a new battery in your key fob. Most Chevy key fobs use CR2032 batteries that you can buy at any hardware store and many grocery stores. Your owner's manual will show you how to open the fob and change the battery. After you change it, you might need to reset the fob using the steps in your manual. Your local Chevy dealer can also complete this process for you.
2. Vehicle Not in Park
Your Chevy's remote start will only work when the gear is in park. This is for your safety and the safety of anyone else in the area.
Solution: Make sure your vehicle is fully in park. If needed, get in your car, start it normally, shift firmly into park, turn it off, and try the remote start again.
3. Low Vehicle Battery
If your Chevrolet's main battery is low, the remote start might not work because it needs enough power to start the engine.
Solution: Check your car battery. If it's more than three to four years old or seems weak (slow to start, dim lights), you might need a new one. A technician at your local Chevy service center can test your battery and put in a new one if needed.
4. Exceeded Number of Remote Starts
Most Chevy cars only let you use remote start twice in a row before you need to start the car normally.
Solution: Get in your vehicle and start it with the key or push-button. This resets the counter, so you can use remote start again later.
5. Valet Mode or Security System Activated
If your Chevrolet is in valet mode or if the alarm has gone off, the remote start won't work.
Solution: Make sure your car isn't in valet mode by checking your dashboard for signs or looking in your manual. For alarm issues, try using the lock button to unlock and lock the car with your key fob before trying remote start again.
6. Hood Not Properly Closed
Chevy cars have a safety feature that stops the remote start if the hood isn't fully closed. This protects anyone who might be working on the engine.
Solution: Check that your hood is fully closed and latched. Sometimes, it may seem closed but isn't fully latched.
7. Service Required on Remote Start System
If none of these fixes work, there might be a bigger problem with your Chevy's remote start system.
Solution: Have your car checked by your local Chevy service center. Issues might involve the starter, engine computer, or the remote start unit itself.
Get Help for Your Chevy Remote Start Issues
If you've tried these steps and your Chevrolet remote start button still isn't working, it's time to ask for help. At Hawk Chevrolet of Joliet, our trained mechanics know how to fix any issues with your remote start system.
We've been helping Chevy owners since 2002. We know how important it is to have all your car's features working right, especially in bad weather. Our service team can quickly find the problem and fix your remote start function.
Call us today at (815) 214-9907 to set up a service visit for your Chevrolet. We offer easy scheduling and fair prices to keep your Chevy running great all year.