How do I know if my truck has a factory remote start?
Factory remote start is a convenient feature that allows you to start your truck's engine remotely, often to warm it up in cold weather or cool it down in the summer. If you're unsure whether your truck is equipped with this feature, there are several ways to find out. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps to determine if your truck has a factory remote start system.
1. Check Your Key Fob
The easiest way to determine if your truck has a factory remote start is by examining your key fob. Most factory remote start systems include a dedicated button for this feature. Look for a button labeled "Remote Start," or an icon that resembles a circular arrow. If your key fob has this button, your truck likely has a factory remote start system.
2. Consult Your Owner's Manual
Your truck's owner's manual is a valuable resource for understanding its features. Look for a section on remote start or keyless entry systems. The manual will provide details about whether your truck is equipped with a factory remote start and how to use it.
3. Look for a Remote Start Antenna
Factory remote start systems often require an antenna to receive signals from the key fob. This antenna is usually installed near the rearview mirror or on the windshield. Check for a small, discreet device in these areas. If you find one, it could indicate the presence of a remote start system.
4. Use Your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
Your truck's VIN can provide information about its features. You can contact your dealership or use an online VIN decoder to check if your truck was manufactured with a factory remote start system. This method is especially useful if you're unable to find information in the owner's manual or on the key fob.
5. Test the Feature
If you're still unsure, you can test whether your truck has a remote start system. Follow these steps:
- Ensure your truck is parked in a safe, open area.
- Lock the doors using your key fob.
- Press and hold the remote start button (if present) for a few seconds.
- Listen for the engine to start. If it does, your truck has a factory remote start system.
6. Contact Your Dealership
If all else fails, reach out to your dealership. Provide them with your truck's make, model, and VIN, and they can confirm whether your vehicle is equipped with a factory remote start system. Dealerships have access to detailed records about the features included in your truck at the time of manufacture.
Conclusion
Determining whether your truck has a factory remote start system is straightforward if you know where to look. By checking your key fob, consulting the owner's manual, inspecting for an antenna, using your VIN, or testing the feature, you can quickly find out. If you're still unsure, your dealership is always a reliable source of information. At Kevin's Autos, we’re here to help with all your vehicle needs, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions about your truck's features or need assistance with repairs and maintenance!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my Chevy is equipped to remote start?
Most Chevy vehicles have it, but some only make it available in higher trims. You can determine whether your car has Remote Start by looking for a curved arrow on your key fob. This is the Remote Start button, so if it's not on your fob, your car won't have it.
What Chevy package has remote start?
The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer comes with standard remote start on the LT trim and above. For the 2023 Chevrolet Equinox RS and Premier trims, remote start is standard. You can add remote start to LS and LT trims with the available convenience or confidence packages.
How do I find out if my truck has remote start?
Check your vehicle's key fob
The key fob for your car will have a special button if your vehicle has a remote starter. The symbol for the remote start is usually an arrow making a partial circle, as seen above. However, take note that some vehicle brands might use a different symbol for remote start.
What year did cars start having remote starts?
The remote keyless systems using a handheld transmitter first appeared on the French made Renault Fuego in 1982, and as an option on several American Motors vehicles in 1983, including the Renault Alliance. The feature gained its first widespread availability in the U.S. on several General Motors vehicles in 1989.
How do I find my remote starter model?
The model number should be located on the control module. The control module will be a black box typically mounted under the drivers side dashboard near the steering column, approximately the the size of a man's wallet (3"x4") with wires coming out of the side.
How to tell if your car has aftermarket remote start without fob?
If the car came with factory remote start, the only real way to tell would be to ask the dealership. They may be able to look up you VIN number and tell you (depending upon what kind of car it is). If aftermarket remote start was added later, the dead giveaway would be cheesy looking wire splices under the dash.
