Does my Acura have remote start?
Remote start availability on Acura vehicles depends on the model year and trim. Many recent Acura models offer remote start either on the key fob or through the AcuraLink smartphone app, but older or entry-level trims may not. To be sure, check your key fob, owner’s manual, or ask a dealer with your VIN.
What remote start is and why it matters
Remote start lets you start the engine from outside the vehicle so the cabin can warm up or cool down before you enter. It can also run climate controls to condition the interior. The exact method and limits vary by model year, trim, and whether you use the physical key fob or a connected app.
Ways to tell if your specific Acura has remote start
Use these checks to confirm whether your car supports remote start and how to access it.
- Check the key fob for a circular arrow button (the remote start button). If present, you may be able to start the engine by using a sequence on the fob, typically involving locking the doors and holding the remote start button.
- Consult the owner’s manual for a section labeled “Remote Engine Start” or “Remote Start.” The manual will detail how to activate it and any safety prerequisites.
- Look for remote-start capability in the AcuraLink smartphone app. If your car is equipped and enrolled, the app may offer a remote start option along with climate controls.
- Ask your dealer or check the vehicle’s build sheet/VIN to confirm whether remote start was included at the time of purchase or as part of a factory option or package.
If any of these indicators are present, your Acura likely supports remote start via one of the methods above. If not, you may still have access through a dealer-installed option or a third-party aftermarket system.
Using remote start: common methods
Below are the typical ways owners access remote start, with general guidelines. Exact steps can vary by model and year, so refer to your manual or dealer for model-specific instructions.
- Key fob method: With the doors locked, press and hold the remote start button (often the circular arrow) for a few seconds. The engine should start and run for a limited time, after which it will automatically shut off if not canceled or if the vehicle starts normally.
- Smartphone app method (AcuraLink): Open the AcuraLink app, select Remote Start, and follow the prompts to start the engine. You can usually set climate control remotely as well, if supported.
- Onboard settings or vehicle menu: Some models allow enabling remote start features via the vehicle’s settings menu or infotainment system, especially when paired with the app or connected services.
Note that some versions require the car to be in Park, doors locked, and the hood closed. The engine may run for a fixed duration (often around 10 minutes) and can be extended only if the system supports it. Safety restrictions may prevent remote start if certain conditions aren’t met (e.g., abnormal gear, fault codes, or security concerns).
Safety, limitations, and things to know before you use it
Remote start is convenient, but it comes with safety caveats. Do not use remote start in enclosed spaces like a garage, and ensure the vehicle is in a safe location before starting it remotely. If you notice warning chimes, dashboard lights, or system messages, consult the manual or a dealer. Some systems require an active service plan or subscription (for example, AcuraLink Remote Start) to function beyond a trial period.
What to do if you can’t find remote start in your car
If you’re unsure whether your Acura supports remote start, take these steps: check the owner’s manual for a clear answer, inspect the key fob for a remote-start button, look in the AcuraLink app, and contact your local dealer with your VIN to confirm feature availability and any required subscriptions or packages.
Bottom line: how to verify for your exact vehicle
To determine definitively whether your specific Acura has remote start, combine these checks with a move to official sources: your VIN, the window sticker or build sheet, the owner’s manual, and a dealer inquiry. This will confirm if the feature exists and what steps to use it.
Summary
Remote start is a feature that many, but not all, Acura models offer. It can be accessed via a key fob or through the AcuraLink app, depending on year, trim, and subscription status. To verify for your car, check the fob, manual, app, and VIN with a dealer. Once confirmed, you’ll have a clear path to enable and safely use remote start when weather or convenience calls for it.
