How long will remote start stay on?

Remote start is a convenient feature that allows you to start your car's engine from a distance, but it's important to understand how long the remote start will remain active. The duration of remote start can vary depending on the specific vehicle and settings, but generally, it will stay on for a limited period of time before automatically shutting off.

Understanding Remote Start Duration

The typical duration for remote start is between 5 to 15 minutes, though some vehicles may have longer or shorter times. The exact duration is usually determined by the vehicle manufacturer and can be adjusted in the settings.

Remote start is designed to provide enough time for the vehicle to warm up or cool down, depending on the weather, before the driver arrives. This helps ensure a comfortable cabin temperature and a properly functioning engine when the driver gets in the car.

Factors That Affect Remote Start Duration

• Vehicle make and model: Different manufacturers may have different default remote start durations.


• User settings: Many vehicles allow the driver to adjust the remote start duration in the settings.


• Environmental conditions: Extreme temperatures, either hot or cold, may cause the remote start to run for a longer duration to properly condition the cabin.


• Vehicle accessories: If the vehicle has features like heated seats or a remote-controlled air conditioning system, the remote start may run longer to power those accessories.

It's important to check your vehicle's owner's manual or consult with the dealer to understand the specific remote start duration for your car. This will help you plan accordingly and ensure your vehicle is ready when you are.

Extending Remote Start Duration

If the default remote start duration is not long enough for your needs, some vehicles may allow you to extend the time. This is typically done through the vehicle's settings menu or by pressing the remote start button multiple times. However, it's important to note that extending the remote start duration may impact your vehicle's battery life, so it's best to use this feature judiciously.p>

In summary, the duration of remote start on your vehicle is typically between 5 to 15 minutes, but can be adjusted based on your preferences and the specific features of your car. Understanding the remote start duration and how to adjust it can help you make the most of this convenient feature.

How do I change my remote start to run longer?

To make your remote start run longer, you can either repeat the start-up sequence after a short wait or, on some vehicles, extend the run time through the in-vehicle settings or a mobile app. For a key fob, press the lock button and then press and hold the remote start button again, waiting at least 30 seconds after the initial start. On some modern cars, you can adjust the default run time to a longer duration (like 15 minutes) through the vehicle's "Settings" menu under "Remote Start". 
Methods to extend your remote start
This video demonstrates how to extend the remote start time for a GM vehicle: 49sDean Cooley GMYouTube · Jan 12, 2023
Using your key fob

• Initial Start: Press the lock button and then hold the remote start button until the lights flash.
• Extend the time: Wait at least 30 seconds after the car has started, then repeat the same procedure (press lock, then hold the remote start button).
• Note: This method can typically only be done once, and the car will need to be manually started to reset the timer. 

This video shows how to extend the remote start time for a GM vehicle: 59sDanny Johnson’s GarageYouTube · Feb 17, 2023
Using in-vehicle settings

• Access settings: Once the car is running, use your steering wheel controls to navigate to the "Settings" menu, then "Advanced Settings".
• Find remote start options: Look for "Vehicle" and then "Remote Start," where you will find a "Duration" option.
• Set the duration: Choose a longer time, such as 15 minutes, if your vehicle offers it. 

Using a mobile app 

• Open the app: Open your vehicle's companion app on your phone.
• Start and extend: Start the vehicle, and within the initial run time, tap the start/stop button again followed by an "extend" button. 

This video explains how to extend the remote start time using a mobile app: 1mDryden GMYouTube · Jan 10, 2022
Important considerations

• Always ensure the vehicle is in a well-ventilated area, preferably outdoors, to avoid carbon monoxide buildup. 
• The exact steps and options vary by manufacturer, so consult your owner's manual for model-specific instructions. 
• Some systems have a maximum run time, and you will need to manually start the car to reset the timer. 

How long does my remote start stay on?

Your remote start will typically run for 10 to 20 minutes before automatically shutting off, though this duration can be extended by remote starting again or may be less if a door is open. Some vehicles, particularly newer models, allow you to extend the run time by pressing the remote start button a second time, while others have anti-theft features that require the key to be inserted to drive away. 
Typical run times

• Initial run time: Most factory remote starts run for about 10 to 20 minutes before shutting down automatically. 
• Maximum run time: Some vehicles allow you to run it for longer, sometimes up to 20 minutes per session, or to extend it once to double the initial run time. 

How to extend the run time

• Remote start again: You can often extend the run time by pressing the remote start button again within the initial run time. 
• Check your vehicle's settings: Some newer vehicles allow you to extend the idle time, sometimes up to 30 minutes, by pressing the start button again after the initial start. 
• Use the app: Some manufacturer apps allow you to extend the remote start time, sometimes for a subscription fee. 

Reasons why it might shut off sooner

• Open door: If a door is open, the remote start system will likely shut down automatically. 
• Key required to drive: The remote start may shut off when you open the door if you don't insert the key and press the brake/start button, which is an anti-theft feature. 
• Fault detection: The system may shut down due to a sensor error or other detected fault. 

Will my remote start drain my battery?

Yes, remote start can drain a car battery, though a properly installed system from a reputable brand usually only causes a minimal, normal draw. However, issues like improper installation, faulty components, or leaving the car in remote-start mode for too long can lead to a battery drain. 
Why remote start can drain the battery

• Parasitic draw: All cars have some level of "parasitic draw," which is power that electronics consume when the car is off, such as the clock or radio presets. Remote start systems add a small amount to this draw to stay in a "listening" mode for the remote signal. 
• Improper installation: An incorrect installation can cause more significant battery drain due to faulty wiring or components. 
• Component failure: A malfunctioning remote starter or a short in the starter solenoid can cause a continuous, excessive power drain. 
• Extended use: Repeatedly using remote start for short periods without a long drive afterward can prevent the battery from fully recharging. 

How to prevent battery drain

• Check battery health: Ensure your battery is not old or failing. A weak battery is more susceptible to drain. 
• Proper installation: Have the system installed by a qualified professional to minimize the risk of improper wiring. 
• Consult the manual: If you have a modern vehicle, check the key fob range and how to keep it from constantly communicating with the car. 
• Avoid extended idles: While remote start is convenient, avoid leaving the car idling for extremely long periods without driving it, as idling doesn't charge the battery as efficiently as driving does. 
• Troubleshoot the system: If you suspect a drain, have a professional use a multimeter to measure the parasitic draw to see if it is within normal limits or if the remote starter is the cause. 

How do I extend the run time on my Ford remote start?

Note: To use this function, your initial start must be requested from the Ford app and not your keyfob. To extend your vehicle's remote start run time: Log in to the Ford app. Select the Extend button from the in-app notification.