9 Most Common Chevy Cruze Remote Start Problems
The Chevy Cruze makes a great road companion. It comes with a set of safety and convenience features including the remote start function. Unfortunately, this function may not always work.
There are several reasons why the remote start function may start acting up. These include a dead key fob battery, too many start attempts, following an incorrect starting procedure, interference with the signal, valet mode activated, and the vehicle not set in Park. Thankfully, these issues can be easily resolved and you can get back to the comfort of using the remote start function.
This article highlights the causes of Chevy Cruze’s failures to start remotely and what you can do to rectify those failures.
Chevy Cruze Remote Start not Working
If you are experiencing issues with the remote start function in your Chevy Cruze, you are not alone. The good news is that, often, the Chevy Cruze remote start problems have trivial causes that have easy remedies. Here are some reasons why the remote start function may be malfunctioning.
Key fob battery is dead
This is the most prevalent cause. Ensure that the key fob battery is still alive. However, if you notice that only the remote start function is not working, but all other operations can be carried out, then the battery is in good condition.
Fix
In case of a dead battery, you are required to replace it with a new one—the battery type is CR2032. Ensure that you do not touch the transmitter circuitry as it can easily be damaged by static charge.
Following the incorrect starting procedure
Every car manufacturer comes with a specific step-wise procedure for remotely starting its vehicle. Following the incorrect procedure will cause the function not to work.
Fix
For the Chevy Cruze, the steps are as follows: press the lock button on the key fob, and then for at least 4 seconds, press and hold the remote start button. This will cause the turn signals to flash, followed shortly by engine ignition. Once the engine starts, it will run for 15 minutes after which it will automatically shut down if there is no further action. To stop the car remotely, press the remote start button for 3 seconds to shut it down automatically.
Too many remote start attempts
Usually, if you use the remote start function more than once in quick succession, it is not likely to work. It will only work in the next attempt after you manually start the vehicle.
Fix
To manually start the vehicle, insert your key into the ignition, and turn it on and off. Then, exit the vehicle with the key fob, and try starting it remotely once again.
Valet mode is activated
Valet mode is a safety feature incorporated in the Chevy Cruze that works to disable all the remote functionalities except for lock/unlock operation. Hence, if your vehicle is in valet mode, the remote start function is disabled.
Fix
The fix is as simple as you can imagine—check whether your vehicle is set in valet mode and deactivate it. Deactivating involves pressing the lock and trunk buttons at the same time.
Fob malfunction
Another likely reason that causes your remote start function not to work is a malfunctioning key fob. If you notice that none of the remote functions are working even after a battery change, then there is a fault with the fob.
Fix
You may have to replace your key fob. This is best done in a dealership as they can program the new key fob to respond to your vehicle.
Interference with transmitter signal
The fob sends signals to your vehicle which then responds by locking, unlocking, or starting the engine. However, this signal from the device can interfere with other radio frequency devices like RFID tags.
Fix
Ensure that you always keep RFID items away from your key when starting the car.
Remote operation too far from the vehicle
Ideally, for successful remote operation, the device should be used at a distance of no more than 60m. With a weak battery, this distance is bound to decrease.
Fix
You can move closer to your vehicle and operate the key fob from there.
Your Chevy Cruze is not in PARK mode
The remote start function will only work if your Chevy Cruze is in Park mode. If not, it will not work.
Fix
Ensure that your vehicle transmission is set to park mode for the remote start function to work.
Coolant and oil pressure
Whenever the coolant temperature is too low or the oil pressure is insufficient, it disables the remote start function. This is a preventive measure so the engine does not overheat, as this could lead to engine damage.
Fix
You are required to engine’s oil levels and coolant. The car should be allowed to cool down for 5 to 10 minutes before you can top up the fluid levels and repeat the start procedure.
FAQs
What disables remote start?
Sometimes, the remote start function may be automatically disabled as a preventive measure to prevent further damage. For instance, if your hazard lights are turned on, the remote start function will not work. Too high coolant temperatures, valet mode, and the vehicle not set in the park are also instances where the remote start function will be disabled.
How can I reset my remote starter?
To reset the remote device, press the lock button and within 5 seconds of turning it on, turn the key to the off position. Repeat this on-off cycle three more times—you will have done four in total. This should reset the remote device.
Conclusion
This article has summarized all the possible causes for remote start not working. With this knowledge, it is easy to diagnose and troubleshoot any underlying issues. Most of the causes are precautions set to avoid mishaps while using the remote start feature.
