Chevrolet Remote Start Guide: Everything Owners Need to Know
That moment you step into a perfectly warm Chevy on a freezing morning or slide into cool seats on a scorching summer day — remote start makes it happen.
You know that feeling when you’re standing at your kitchen window, coffee in hand, watching the frost melt off your Silverado’s windshield while the cabin warms up inside? Or maybe you’re finishing up a hike, and you use your phone to cool down your Equinox before you even get back to the trailhead. That’s the magic of remote start — it turns your Chevy into a vehicle that’s ready for you, not the other way around. Whether you’re driving a Silverado, Equinox, Colorado, or Traverse, this guide covers everything you need to know about using, troubleshooting, and getting the most out of your Chevy’s remote start feature.
TL;DR
Chevrolet remote start lets you start your vehicle from a distance using your key fob or the myChevrolet mobile app. Key fob method requires pressing the lock button once, then holding the remote start button (circular arrow) for about four seconds — the vehicle’s lights will flash to confirm. App method uses your smartphone’s internet connection, working from anywhere. The engine runs for 10-20 minutes depending on your model, and you can extend it once by repeating the process. Common problems include weak key fob batteries, an open hood, or the vehicle not being in Park.
Key Takeaways
- Two ways to start remotely — key fob (short range) or myChevrolet app (works from anywhere with internet)
- Run time is 10-20 minutes — engine auto-shuts off; you can extend once by repeating the process
- Key fob method requires three steps — lock vehicle, then press and hold the circular arrow button for ~4 seconds
- App method offers more features — schedule starts, adjust climate, and monitor vehicle status
- Remote start won’t work if — vehicle isn’t in Park, hood is open, engine is already running, or you’ve exceeded the two-start limit
- Most common fix — replace the key fob battery (CR2032) if remote start suddenly stops working
How to Use Chevy Remote Start: Two Simple Methods
Method 1: Using Your Key Fob
The key fob method is fast and works even when your phone is out of battery or signal. Here’s the simple sequence:
- Lock your vehicle — Press the lock button on your key fob once. This is a safety requirement .
- Press and hold the remote start button — Locate the button with a circular arrow icon. Press and hold it for about 4 seconds .
- Watch for confirmation — Your Chevy’s parking lights will flash, and you’ll hear the engine start .
If you’re driving a model like the Silverado or Suburban with aftermarket remote start systems, some may activate by pressing the lock button three times in a row instead .
Method 2: Using the myChevrolet Mobile App
The myChevrolet app adds convenience — you can start your vehicle from anywhere you have cellular service .
- Download the myChevrolet app from your phone’s app store and set up your account.
- Open the app and look for the Key Fob icon on the home screen .
- Tap the Remote Start button — The app will send a command to your vehicle, and the lights will flash to confirm .
Pro tip: The app also lets you lock/unlock doors, check tire pressure, monitor fuel levels, and even schedule remote starts in advance . However, you may need an active OnStar plan for some app features .
How Long Does Remote Start Run?
Your Chevy’s remote start won’t keep the engine running forever. Depending on your model, it runs for:
- 10 to 20 minutes before automatically shutting off
- Silverado models typically run for 15 minutes
If you need more time, you can extend the run time once by repeating the remote start process. Just remember — after two successful remote starts in a row, you’ll need to start the vehicle normally before using remote start again .
What Can Prevent Remote Start From Working?
Remote start is convenient, but it won’t work if certain conditions aren’t met. Here are the most common reasons it might fail:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Weak key fob battery | Replace with a CR2032 battery (most common) |
| Vehicle not in Park | Shift fully into Park and try again |
| Hood is open | Close and latch the hood completely |
| Engine already running | Turn the engine off first |
| Exceeded two-start limit | Start the car normally to reset the counter |
| Low vehicle battery | Charge or replace the main car battery |
| Key fob too far | Get within range (usually 50-100 feet) |
| Valet mode or alarm active | Disable valet mode and reset the alarm |
| Doors or trunk not fully closed | Check all closures |
| Hazard lights on | Turn off hazard lights |
A Quick Fix for Most Problems
If your remote start suddenly stops working, the first thing to try is replacing the key fob battery. These batteries typically last 2-3 years, and many owners report remote start failure due to low battery before anything else . You can find CR2032 batteries at any hardware store or grocery store.
If the key fob battery is fine but remote start still won’t work, a pending error code in the vehicle’s computer might be causing the issue. Even if there’s no check engine light, a code scan can reveal the problem .
How to Stop or Cancel Remote Start
Sometimes you need to cancel a remote start before it’s done. Here’s how:
- Using the key fob — Press and hold the remote start button for about 3 seconds. The engine will shut off .
- From inside the vehicle — Once you enter and press the brake pedal, the remote start mode will automatically turn off .
- Using the myChevrolet app — Open the app and tap the remote start button again to stop the engine .
Does My Chevy Have Remote Start?
Not all Chevrolets come with remote start from the factory. Look for these clues:
- Check your key fob — If there’s a circular arrow button, you have remote start .
- High-end trims often include it — Silverado LTZ, High Country, and many Equinox and Traverse trims come with remote start standard or available .
- Check your owner’s manual — It will list standard features for your specific model and year.
Important: If your vehicle was built with a dealer-installed remote start kit (RPO code S6P), a software update may be required to activate it. Some 2023-2024 Colorado models came from the factory without the correct BCM software for remote start, which a dealer can fix .
Safety Considerations
Remote start is designed with safety in mind. Here’s what you should know:
- The vehicle stays locked while running remotely. You can’t drive it without the key fob inside and pressing the brake pedal .
- The system won’t start if the hood is open, which protects anyone working on the engine .
- The engine automatically shuts off after the run time expires or if a door is opened without taking over the ignition .
Always secure heavy items in the truck bed or under-seat compartments during a drive to prevent them from sliding forward and interfering with the pedals or passengers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I remote start my Chevy with the key fob?
Press the lock button once, then press and hold the circular arrow remote start button for about four seconds. The lights will flash and the engine will start .
How long does Chevy remote start run?
The engine runs for 10 to 20 minutes depending on your model, then shuts off automatically. Silverado models typically run for 15 minutes .
Why won’t my Chevy remote start work?
Common reasons include a weak key fob battery, an open hood, the vehicle not being in Park, or exceeding the two-start limit. Replace the key fob battery first, then check other conditions .
Can I remote start my Chevy from anywhere?
Yes, using the myChevrolet mobile app, you can start your vehicle from anywhere with a cellular connection, unlike the key fob which has limited range .
Do I need OnStar for the myChevrolet app remote start?
A valid OnStar plan may be required for some remote features through the app. Check with your dealer or the app for specific plan requirements .
How do I cancel remote start?
Press and hold the remote start button on your key fob for about three seconds, or use the app to stop the engine .
Does remote start drain the car battery?
It can if used excessively. Remote start does use some battery power and consumes fuel. Use it wisely, especially if your vehicle battery is older .
What’s your favorite Chevy remote start moment? Share your stories in the comments below!
References
Chevrolet Remote Start Resources:
