Can you remote start a Subaru with a key fob?

Yes—if your Subaru is equipped with factory remote start, you can start the engine from the key fob. Availability depends on the model year, trim, and whether the feature was optioned or included with Subaru’s STARLINK services.

What remote start is and how it works in Subarus

Remote start on Subarus is a feature that allows the engine to run without the driver being in the vehicle. In many models, this is part of the Remote Engine Start (RES) capability and may be connected to Subaru STARLINK services. When activated, the vehicle starts with doors locked and climate control engaged, so you can warm up or cool down the interior before you get in. The engine will run for a fixed period and will shut off automatically if certain conditions aren’t met or if the driver interacts with the car (for example, by pressing the brake or turning the ignition).

Is remote start available on my Subaru?

Availability hinges on the model year and trim. Many newer Subarus offer factory remote start either as a standard feature on higher trims or as an optional package (sometimes bundled with STARLINK). If you’re unsure, check your owner’s manual, the window sticker, or ask a dealer. If your model doesn’t include factory remote start, you may still access the feature via smartphone app options tied to STARLINK or via an aftermarket system, though these come with their own caveats.

Typical patterns by model year and trim

In recent years, common Subaru models with remote start options include the Outback, Forester, Crosstrek, Legacy, Impreza, and WRX, among others. The feature is frequently tied to specific trims or packages and may require an active STARLINK subscription for app-based remote start in addition to the key-fob option.

Using the key fob: typical steps

Note: exact steps can vary by year and trim. The following describes a widely used sequence on many Subaru models that offer factory remote start. Always verify your vehicle’s manual or with a dealer for your exact configuration.

Before attempting a remote start with the key fob, ensure you’re in a safe location and that the car is in Park with all doors closed. Exhaust can enter enclosed spaces, so do not remote start in a garage or other restricted area.

• From the key fob, press the Lock button once, then within a short window, press and hold the Lock button again to start the engine. The vehicle’s lights may flash to indicate the engine has started.


• Wait for the engine to idle and for climate control to begin conditioning the interior as desired.


• To stop the engine remotely, press the Lock button again or interact with the brake/ignition in the vehicle as directed by the manual.

Because button sequences can differ by year and trim, always confirm the exact procedure in your owner’s manual. If the sequence does not work, contact your dealer to verify that your vehicle is equipped for remote start and that the feature is activated.

Alternative: smartphone remote start via STARLINK

For models that support it, Subaru’s STARLINK Connected Services offer remote start through a smartphone app. This can be useful if your key fob remote start isn’t available on your current trim or you prefer app-based control. A subscription may be required, and availability varies by market and vehicle configuration.

Using the app typically involves logging into your STARLINK account, selecting your vehicle, and choosing Remote Start. The app-based option operates independently of the key fob and is subject to the same safety rules and time limits as the fob method.

Safety, limitations, and tips

Remote start is governed by several safety and operational constraints. The vehicle generally must be in Park with the transmission in automatic mode, doors closed, and the parking brake disengaged for initial start. The engine runs for a preset duration (often around 10 minutes) and will stop if a door is opened, the brake pedal is pressed, or the timer expires. Avoid attempting remote start in enclosed spaces or near pedestrians. Some regions or trims may restrict remote start on manual transmissions, so verify compatibility with your specific vehicle.

• Remote start may be unavailable on base trims or older models that didn’t include the feature as part of the factory package.


• Manual transmission models are commonly not eligible for factory remote start in many configurations; check your vehicle’s specifications.


• Aftermarket remote starters can affect warranties and resale value; consult the dealer before adding one.

Always consult your owner’s manual for exact instructions and safety precautions tailored to your model, year, and region.

Summary

In short, you can remote start a Subaru with a key fob if your car is equipped with factory remote start on its trim or as part of a package, and you follow the model-specific sequence. Availability varies by year and price tier, with some models also supporting smartphone-based remote start via STARLINK. If your vehicle doesn’t have this feature, you can explore dealer-installed options or app-based remote start where supported, while always observing safety guidelines.

Do any subarus have remote start?

Yes, many modern Subarus have remote start, though availability varies by trim level and model year. The feature is typically available on models with keyless access and push-button start, either through a built-in system, a separately purchased key fob, or via the MySubaru app with a subscription. 
How to get remote start

• Standard with push-button start: Newer Subarus equipped with keyless access and push-button start often have a standard remote start function activated by a key fob. 
• STARLINK: For other models or for more features like climate control, a STARLINK subscription may be required. This allows you to start the car and adjust the temperature from your smartphone using the MySubaru app. 
• Accessory kit: A genuine Subaru remote engine starter accessory kit can be purchased for models that don't come with the feature standard. This is typically an option for push-button start vehicles, but not manual transmissions. 

Which models have it

• Ascent: All trims have remote start. 
• Forester, Crosstrek, Impreza, Legacy: Remote start is typically available on all trims except the base model. 
• Outback: Most models from 2015 and newer with a key fob are equipped with remote start. 

Key considerations

• Transmission: Remote start is generally only available on models with automatic transmissions. 
• Subscription cost: The MySubaru app feature is tied to a subscription, which may be included in a package or cost extra. 
• Key fob: Models with a traditional key switch will not have remote start from the phone, but you can often purchase a separate long-range fob accessory for this function. 
• Installation: If you purchase an accessory kit, it will require professional installation. 

How does MySubaru remote start work?

And click the push button start and then it'll say it's ready to drive. And you can put it in gear. So not only do you have the ability to remote start your car but you can also get it comfortable.

How do I tell if my key fob has remote start?

To check for remote start, look for a button on your key fob with a curved arrow symbol; if it has one, you likely have remote start. To use it, you typically press the lock button first, then press and hold the remote start button for a few seconds. If your fob doesn't have a dedicated button, your car may still support remote start through a smartphone app, like Toyota's Remote Connect or Ford's FordPass app, which may have its own activation sequence. 
Check your key fob

• Look for a symbol: Check if your key fob has a button with a curved or circular arrow. This is the most common indicator of remote start functionality. 
• Test the sequence: If you find the button, you can test it. The sequence is usually: 
  1. Press the lock button once. 
  2. Press and hold the remote start button for at least four seconds. 
• Check for alternatives: If your fob lacks the button, your vehicle might still have the feature via a smartphone app. Examples include Toyota's Remote Connect and FordPass. 

Other ways to check

• Consult your owner's manual: The manual will specify if your vehicle has remote start and how to use it. 
• Contact the dealership: You can provide the dealership with your vehicle's VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) to ask if it was originally equipped with remote start, says this Quora user. 
• Look for a third-party system: If you bought the car used, a previous owner may have added an aftermarket system, which would have its own key fob and possibly a module under the dashboard, notes this Reddit user. 

Can I use my key fob to remote start?

Yes, you can often use your key fob to remote start your car, but the method depends on the vehicle. The most common way is to press the lock button on the key fob two or three times in quick succession, followed by pressing and holding a remote start button or the lock button again. 
This video shows how to remote start a Ford vehicle using the key fob: 1mJason GillettYouTube · Nov 18, 2024
Common remote start methods

• Press lock, then remote start button: Press the lock button on the fob, and within a few seconds, press and hold the remote start button until the vehicle starts. 
• Press lock multiple times: Press the lock button two or three times in rapid succession, sometimes on the third press, you must press and hold it for the vehicle to start. 
• Press lock, unlock, lock: Some systems require you to press lock, then unlock, and then lock again to activate the remote start. 
• Check the vehicle's manual: The exact sequence of button presses can vary by manufacturer and model, so always check your owner's manual for the correct procedure. 

Things to keep in mind

• Limited range: The range of a factory remote start is usually limited, so you must be within a certain distance of your vehicle. 
• Confirmation signals: Your vehicle may flash its lights or sound its horn to confirm that the remote start was successful. 
• Automatic shut-off: Most vehicles will shut off after a set period of time (e.g., 10 or 15 minutes) unless you get in and turn the ignition on. 
• Engine must be off: You can't use the remote start if the key is in the ignition and the vehicle is on. 

This video demonstrates how to use key fob remote start for Kia and Hyundai vehicles: 1mKia Hyundai ChannelYouTube · Jun 28, 2025