Remote start is an extremely helpful feature that is available in some modern cars, such as the Volkswagen, VW Atlas, Tiguan, Jetta, and Taos. With remote start, you can send a signal to your car from a distance to start the engine without getting inside. This simple feature allows your car to warm up and be ready to go before you get in. In this article, I will explain why VW remote start might not be working and provide solutions to fix the problem.
Why Does My VW Remote Start Not Work?
Here are some of the main causes why is my remote start disabled:
1. Hood Switch Is Missing
A damaged tilt switch, malfunctioning hood, or detached hood might all be important reasons why your car’s remote starter isn’t working. If someone is working beneath the hood, the hood switch sends a signal. Under the hood of the car, Volkswagen has a security system for remote starting under the car’s hood, and if the hood is open, the engine won’t start.
2. The Car Is Out Of Range
The range is important, especially for the key fob. An extended-range kit gives you the ability to operate from a distance of around a quarter of a mile. However, in many situations, you’re only looking at a few meters. If the key fob is out of range, the car may ignore instructions.
The app has a wider coverage, but it requires a strong cell signal to work. To find the range, consult the owner’s manual. You need to worry only if you’re close enough, but the remote start is not functioning.
3. Car Battery is Low
A low or dead car battery, like a dead key fob battery, will prevent the remote start from working. If the car’s battery is fully dead, the car will be unable to receive key fob signals. It will also be unable to provide the electrical power needed for the starter generator to engage and start the engine.
If the car’s battery is low but not completely dead, the electronic components that respond to the key fob signal might fail. This happens because a weak car battery doesn’t generate sufficient voltage to operate many of the car’s electronic systems.
4. Warning lights Are On
The remote start will not work if your vehicle’s warning lights are turned on. This is a safety feature to keep your car from being stolen. Although it’s not a common reason for remote start failure, it’s better not to take any chances. As long as these warning lights are on, the problem with the remote start will persist. Turning off the warning lights is the simplest way to resolve the issue.
5. Valet Mode is Active
A unique feature of a VW is the valet mode. The mode temporarily disables your remote start as a safety measure. To activate valet mode, press specific combinations of buttons on your remote fob.
6. The Incorrect Procedure
If you use the remote start too many times in a row, you may experience a malfunctioning remote start issue. If your VW remote starting isn’t working, you should look into how you’re using the system. Maybe you’re not using it correctly. Different remote starters have different processes, depending on the brand you choose.
How Do I Activate My VW Remote Start?
Here are some of the solutions to solve this issue:
1. Replace the Battery in Your Key Fob
Try out all the additional features on the fob to see if your car’s key fob is dying. If other features are not working, it indicates a dead key fob.
Luckily, key fob batteries are affordable and easy to replace. Removing the plastic cover from the vehicle’s key fob to reveal the 3 Volt battery. You can get an exact battery online using the part identification on the battery, or you can buy an alternative available at a local auto store.
2. Refuel Your Vehicle
If the car’s low fuel light is on, you’ll need to fill up your tank before you can use the remote to start again. Just keep filling up with petrol until the low fuel light turns on.
3. Lock Your Vehicle’s Doors
Don’t expect to use the remote start feature if the car’s doors are unlocked. To get the system running again, you’ll need to lock the doors, which is a simple task with the key fob.
4. Close the Hood and Trunk
Make sure the car’s hood and trunk are completely closed before using the remote start feature. Examine the hood and trunk carefully to ensure that they have been closed and secured.
5. Address Engine Issues
Avoiding a check engine light not only disables your vehicle’s remote start but also exposes your engine to further damage.
6. Replace or Charge the Car Battery
This is another option that is not as quick or easy to implement. If you’ve noticed problems with the vehicle’s electronics or unusual lights on the dashboard, a low battery could be the issue. Dealing with this is as simple as charging your car’s battery.
7. Replace Your Car Key Remote
If the problem is with your remote, changing the batteries is a good initial step.. The most common reasons for poor remote performance are dead or weakening batteries. When you open the remote, you’ll notice the battery type inscribed on the metal.
8. Check Engine Light
If the check engine light is on, your remote start won’t work. This is a safety measure, similar to the hood override feature. If any servicing is needed, the engine should not be started unintentionally.
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Conclusion
If your remote start isn’t working, it’s probably due to various causes. Address these issues to ensure the system functions correctly. If the VW remote isn’t working, carefully read through the solutions provided in this article to resolve the issue.
