Why wont my Chevy Cruze auto start?

If your Chevy Cruze is having trouble starting automatically, there could be a few potential causes. The most common issues include a dead battery, a faulty starter, or problems with the fuel system. Let's explore these potential problems in more detail.

Dead Battery

One of the most common reasons a Chevy Cruze won't auto start is a dead or weakened battery. The battery powers the starter motor, which is responsible for cranking the engine to get it running. If the battery doesn't have enough charge, the starter won't be able to turn over the engine. Check the battery's charge level and replace it if necessary.

Faulty Starter

Another potential issue could be a problem with the starter itself. The starter is an electric motor that engages with the flywheel to spin the engine and start it. If the starter is malfunctioning, it won't be able to crank the engine, preventing the auto start feature from working. Have a mechanic inspect the starter and replace it if it's faulty.

Fuel System Problems

Issues with the fuel system can also prevent the Chevy Cruze from auto starting. This could include problems with the fuel pump, fuel lines, or fuel injectors. If the engine isn't getting the proper amount of fuel, it won't be able to start. Check for any fuel system issues and have them repaired by a qualified mechanic.

Other Potential Causes

• Electrical system issues, such as a problem with the ignition system or wiring


• Sensor failures, like a bad crankshaft position sensor or camshaft position sensor


• Software or computer-related problems in the vehicle's electronic control unit (ECU)

If you've checked the battery, starter, and fuel system and the Chevy Cruze still won't auto start, it's best to have a professional mechanic diagnose the issue further. They can use diagnostic tools to identify the root cause and make the necessary repairs to get your vehicle running smoothly again.

Why isn't my automatic start not working?

A dead battery, faulty starter, and an activated valet mode are some of the reasons why your remote start isn't working. Aside from electrical issues, coolant and oil pressure problems can also affect the remote start's operation. It costs between $250 and $400 to replace a damaged remote start fob.

Why won't my remote start work on my Chevy Cruze?

A Chevy Cruze's remote start might not be working because of a dead key fob battery, a problem with the car itself (like the hood not being latched, the check engine light being on, or a door being ajar), or the vehicle not being in Park. To fix this, try replacing the key fob battery, checking that all doors and the hood are closed, making sure the car is in Park, and verifying there are no dashboard warning lights on. 
This video demonstrates how to remote start a Chevy Cruze and common issues that prevent it from starting: 48sHidalgo Motors Co TVYouTube · Oct 16, 2020
Key fob and starting procedure

• Replace the key fob battery: A dead or weak battery is one of the most common reasons for remote start failure. Most Chevy key fobs use a CR2032 battery. 
• Check the starting procedure: Ensure you are locking the doors first, then pressing and holding the remote start button for a few seconds. The hazard lights will flash to confirm it's working. 
• Too many attempts: The system may be disabled if you've made too many failed remote start attempts. 

Vehicle conditions

• Hood is not closed: The hood must be completely latched for the system to work. Close it firmly and try again. 
• Doors are ajar: All doors, including the trunk, must be closed and locked. 
• Vehicle is not in Park: The gear selector must be in Park for the remote start to function. 
• Check engine light is on: If the check engine light is on, the remote start will not work. You will need to diagnose and fix the underlying issue first. 
• Other warning lights: Be sure there are no other dashboard warnings, such as those for low oil or low coolant. 
• Hazard lights are on: The remote start will not work if the hazard lights are flashing. 
• Valet mode: Check if the vehicle is in valet mode, which can be disabled through a combination of buttons on the key fob. 

How to troubleshoot

1. Check the key fob: Replace the battery in your key fob. 
2. Perform the correct procedure: Lock the doors, then press and hold the remote start button. 
3. Verify vehicle status: Make sure the car is in Park, all doors and the hood are closed, and the hazard lights are not on. 
4. Check for warning lights: Look for any warning lights on the dashboard, especially the check engine light. 
5. If it still doesn't work: If the problem persists, it could be a more serious issue, like a faulty sensor or a problem with the engine control module, which may require a visit to a mechanic for further diagnosis. 

How to auto start a Chevy Cruze?

To auto-start a Chevy Cruze, press the lock button on the key fob, then press and hold the remote start button (the circular arrow symbol) for about four seconds. The engine will start and run for a set amount of time, usually 10-15 minutes, and you can repeat the process to extend the time. 
This video demonstrates how to remote start a Chevy Cruze with a key fob: 48sHidalgo Motors Co TVYouTube · Oct 16, 2020
Using the key fob

1. Press the lock button. Press the lock button on your key fob once to ensure the vehicle is locked. 
2. Press and hold the remote start button. Press and hold the remote start button (the one with the circular arrow icon) for at least four seconds. 
3. Confirm the vehicle started. You should hear the engine start and see the parking lights flash or turn on. 
4. Extend the run time. The engine will shut off after 10-15 minutes. You can extend the run time by repeating the lock and remote start sequence before it shuts off. 

Using the MyChevrolet app 

• If your vehicle is equipped with it, you can also use the MyChevrolet app on your smartphone to remote start the Cruze.
• Simply press the lock button in the app and then hold the remote start button until the engine starts. 

This video shows how to use the MyChevrolet app to remote start your vehicle: 16sChevroletYouTube · Feb 28, 2018
Before you start

• Not all Chevy Cruze models come with remote start. 
• Make sure the hood is fully closed, the key fob is not inside the car, and the hazard lights are not on. 

Why is my Chevy auto start not working?

A Chevy's remote start might not be working due to a simple issue like a dead key fob battery, an unlatched hood, or a car not being in park. Other common causes include the check engine light being on, low fluid levels (oil or coolant), or having exceeded the allowed number of consecutive remote start attempts. 
This video explains common remote start problems and fixes: 36sKurt of TradesYouTube · Nov 11, 2022
Quick checks to perform

• Check your key fob: A weak or dead battery is one of the most frequent culprits. Many Chevy remotes use a CR2032 battery. 
• Inspect the vehicle's physical state: 
  • Ensure the vehicle is in "Park". 
  • Make sure the hood is firmly closed. A faulty hood switch can also prevent the system from working. 
  • Check that all doors are closed and locked. 
• Look for dashboard warnings: 
  • A "Check Engine" light will disable remote start. 
  • Low fuel or low oil/coolant levels can also prevent it from starting. 
• Review the remote start procedure:
  • Follow the correct sequence: typically, lock the doors, then press and hold the remote start button for a few seconds. 
  • Avoid attempting multiple consecutive remote starts. If you have, try the procedure below. 

This video demonstrates how to troubleshoot a remote start issue: 1mMotorCarNutYouTube · Oct 18, 2024
If the quick checks don't work

• Reset the system: Insert the key into the ignition, turn it to the "on" position and then back to "off," and then exit the vehicle with the key fob. After this, re-attempt the remote start procedure. 
• Check the car battery: A weak car battery can prevent the remote start from engaging. 
• Look into the manual: Your owner's manual can provide specific information about your vehicle's remote start system. 
• Scan for codes: If the check engine light is on, a mechanic can scan the vehicle's computer for trouble codes that will identify the exact issue. After the problem is fixed and the code is cleared, the remote start should work again.