How do you activate remote start on a Chevy Colorado?

The Chevy Colorado is a popular midsize pickup truck that offers a convenient remote start feature. This feature allows you to start your vehicle's engine from a distance, making it easier to warm up or cool down the cabin before you get in. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to activate remote start on your Chevy Colorado.

Step 1: Locate the Remote Start Button

The remote start button is typically located on your vehicle's key fob or on the dashboard. It is usually labeled with a circular arrow symbol or the words "Remote Start".

Step 2: Press the Remote Start Button

To activate the remote start feature, simply press and hold the remote start button on your key fob or dashboard for a few seconds. You should hear the engine start, and the vehicle's lights may flash to indicate that the remote start has been activated.

Step 3: Adjust the Settings (Optional)

Depending on your Chevy Colorado's features, you may be able to customize the remote start settings. This can include adjusting the temperature, turning on the climate control, or even starting the heated seats or steering wheel. You can typically access these settings through the vehicle's infotainment system or by using the MyChevrolet mobile app.

Step 4: Deactivate the Remote Start

To turn off the remote start, simply press the remote start button again or approach the vehicle and open the door. The engine will then shut off, and the vehicle will be ready for you to drive.

Remember, the remote start feature is designed to provide convenience and comfort, but it's important to use it responsibly and in accordance with local laws and regulations.

Why is my remote start not working on my Chevy Colorado?

If your Chevy Colorado remote start isn't working, the most likely culprits are a dead key fob battery, or an issue with the vehicle itself like a door or hood not being fully closed, the truck not being in park, or the check engine light being on. To fix it, try replacing the key fob battery first, then check all the vehicle's safety conditions, and if the issue persists, consider resetting the remote start system or having it professionally diagnosed.
 
This video demonstrates the basic troubleshooting steps for a Chevy Colorado remote start: 1mYour Tech PalYouTube · Jul 3, 2025
Key fob issues

• Dead or weak battery: The most common reason for remote start failure is a low-battery key fob. 
  • Solution: Replace the battery in your key fob. Most Chevy fobs use a CR2032 battery. 
• Dirty contacts: Over time, the contacts inside the key fob can become dirty or worn, affecting its performance. 
  • Solution: Try cleaning the contacts inside the fob. 

Vehicle condition issues

• Doors or hood open: The system will not work if any doors are open or the hood is unlatched. 
  • Solution: Ensure all doors are closed and the hood is completely latched. 
• Transmission not in Park: The vehicle must be in Park for the remote start to function. 
  • Solution: Double-check that the gear selector is securely in Park. 
• Hazard lights on: The system will not engage if the hazard lights are on. 
  • Solution: Turn off the hazard lights. 
• Check Engine Light: An illuminated Check Engine Light can disable the remote start feature. 
  • Solution: Check for any codes and address the underlying issue. 
• Low fuel: The system may not work if fuel levels are too low. 
  • Solution: Add fuel to the vehicle.

Usage and system issues

• Incorrect procedure: You must press the lock button once before pressing and holding the remote start button for at least two seconds. 
  • Solution: Follow the correct remote start procedure: press lock, then press and hold the remote start button until the turn signals flash. 
• Valet mode: Some vehicles have a valet mode that disables remote start. 
  • Solution: Check your owner's manual for how to disable valet mode. 
• Too many attempts: Some systems will disable after too many consecutive remote start attempts without the key in the ignition. 
  • Solution: Insert the key into the ignition and turn the vehicle on once. 
• Remote start system needs a reset: Sometimes the system just needs to be reset. 
  • Solution: Try a remote start system reset. A common method is to have the driver's door closed, put the key in the ignition, and turn it to the "Accessory" position, then press the Lock button on the remote. 

Next steps

• If these steps don't resolve the issue, check your owner's manual for any model-specific instructions. 
• If the problem persists, it's recommended to take the vehicle to a dealership for a professional diagnosis, especially if there are electrical issues with the Body Control Module (BCM) or Engine Control Module (ECM). 

You can watch this video to learn how to use the remote start on a Chevrolet Colorado: 25sWalser Polar ChevroletYouTube · Oct 10, 2025

How do I activate my Chevy remote start?

Using Remote Start

1. Find the looping arrow button on your key fob.
2. Press it two times.
3. On some vehicles, you need to press the Lock button first.
4. The turn signals will flash to confirm the remote start worked.

How to activate remote start on Chevy Colorado?

And hold that button. And then you'll hear the truck kind of fire up you'll see the headlights. Come on. And then this will run for about 10 minutes now if you want to shut the truck.

What are the steps to activate the remote start?

Button then hold the start button for about 4 seconds. The engine will start and the preset temperature. Inside will find its happy place.