How do I know if my Ford Transit has remote start?

If you own a Ford Transit, you may be wondering whether your vehicle is equipped with remote start functionality. Remote start allows you to start your vehicle's engine from a distance, providing convenience and comfort, especially in cold or hot weather. Here's how you can determine if your Ford Transit has remote start capabilities.

Check Your Owner's Manual

The first and most reliable way to find out if your Ford Transit has remote start is to consult your owner's manual. The manual will typically list all the features and options included in your specific model and trim level. Look for a section on remote start or keyless entry, which should indicate whether this feature is available.

Inspect Your Key Fob

Another way to check for remote start is to examine your vehicle's key fob. If your key fob has a button with a circular arrow or the word "remote" on it, this is likely the remote start button. Try pressing and holding this button to see if your vehicle's engine starts from a distance.

Check for Remote Start Indicators

Some Ford Transits may have visual indicators that remote start is enabled. Look for small lights or symbols on the dashboard or near the steering wheel that may illuminate when the remote start feature is activated.

Contact Your Dealer

If you're still unsure, the best way to confirm whether your Ford Transit has remote start is to contact your local Ford dealer. They can check your vehicle's specific configuration and let you know if this feature is included.

Knowing whether your Ford Transit has remote start can help you take advantage of this convenient feature and make your driving experience more comfortable.

How to know if a Ford Transit has remote start?

Some vehicles include it on the key fob, others offer it through the FordPass app, and many have both options available. If your Ford is equipped with remote start, you'll notice a circular arrow button (⟲) on the fob. If not, don't worry, you may still be able to use the feature through your smartphone.

How do I remote start my Ford Transit?

You can remote start a Ford Transit using either the FordPass app or a key fob with a built-in remote start button. With the app, select your vehicle on the home screen and use the "Start" toggle or press and hold the fan icon for Phone As A Key™. To use the key fob, press the lock button once, then press the remote start button twice.
 
Using the FordPass app
This video demonstrates how to remote start your Ford using the FordPass app: 59sFord South AfricaYouTube · Oct 10, 2023

• Open the FordPass app and go to the vehicle's home screen.
• Slide the "Start" toggle to the far right.
• For Phone As A Key™, press and hold the fan icon on the home screen. 

Using the key fob
You can watch this video to see how to remote start your Ford with the key fob: 1mJason GillettYouTube · Nov 18, 2024

• Press the lock button on your key fob to lock the doors.
• Immediately press the remote start button twice.
  • The remote start button is often marked with a circular arrow icon with a "2x" next to it.
• The vehicle's lights will flash, and the engine will start. 

If remote start is not working

• Enable the feature: Check your vehicle's instrument cluster settings to make sure remote start is enabled. You may need to be in the "Key in position 1" (ignition on but engine not running) to access these settings. 
• Authorize access: The feature may require authorization from a dealer or for you to connect your vehicle to the FordPass app. 
• Contact support: If you continue to have issues, contact FordPass app support or your dealer for further assistance. 

What Ford models have remote start?

Is Remote Start Available on All Ford Models? Ford's Remote Start Technology is available on many models, including the Ford Explorer, Escape, F-150, and Mustang. Availability may vary by trim level, but it can often be added as an aftermarket feature if not included.

How do you check if you have remote start?

You can tell if your car has remote start by checking the key fob for a circular arrow button, looking for a sticker under the hood, or consulting the owner's manual. If your fob has the button, press the lock button first, then press and hold the remote start button. Some manufacturers, like Toyota, may require pressing the lock button three times and holding on the third press to activate the feature, even without a dedicated button on the fob. 
Check your key fob

• Look for a specific button: Most key fobs with remote start have a button with a circular arrow symbol (⟳). 
• Test the button: If you find the button, try pressing the car's lock button once, then immediately press and hold the remote start button for a few seconds. 
• Note: If your fob doesn't have this button, your car likely doesn't have factory remote start, though it could have an aftermarket system with a separate key fob. 

This video shows how to check for a remote start button on a key fob: 55sSteven WelchYouTube · Jun 19, 2021
Use other methods to check

• Consult the owner's manual: This is the most definitive way to confirm if your car is equipped with remote start and to learn how to use it. A PDF version of the manual is often available online if you don't have the physical copy. 
• Check the vehicle's dashboard: Some cars show a message or indicator on the dashboard when the remote start is successful. 
• Look for a sticker: Check under the hood, often on the radiator core support, for a label indicating the vehicle has auto-start. 
• Check the driver information menu: Navigate through your car's infotainment or driver information display for an option to enable or disable "auto-start" or "remote start". 

This video shows how to check if your car has remote start by looking at the dashboard and other parts: 1mBabbling BooleanYouTube · Sep 7, 2021
If you still can't tell

• Ask the dealership: They can look up your vehicle's VIN to confirm if remote start was an original factory option. 
• Contact the manufacturer: Check the manufacturer's website or support pages for information on your model's features. Some brands may have a vehicle-specific app that confirms remote start capabilities.