If you’re experiencing the frustration of your heat not turning on with remote start, you’re not alone. Many people face this issue during the colder months when they rely on their remote start feature to warm up their vehicles. There can be several reasons why this happens, including limitations of the remote start system, vehicle settings, and potential malfunctions. In this article, we will explore the possible causes and solutions to help you understand why your heat may not be turning on with remote start.
1. Remote Start Limitations
One common reason why the heat doesn’t turn on with remote start is due to the limitations of the remote start system itself. Some vehicles may have restrictions in place to prevent the heat from automatically activating when using remote start. This can be a design choice made by the manufacturer or a safety measure to prevent potential hazards.
If your vehicle falls into this category, it means that the remote start feature may only turn on the engine without activating the heat system. In such cases, you may need to manually start the engine and turn on the heat after entering the vehicle.
2. Vehicle Settings and Programming
Another reason why the heat doesn’t turn on with remote start could be related to your vehicle’s settings or programming. Some vehicles allow customization of the remote start system, giving you the option to control various functions, including the heat. If you find that the heat doesn’t turn on automatically, it’s worth checking your vehicle’s settings to ensure that the heat function is enabled.
Additionally, vehicles with dual-zone climate control systems may have separate settings for the driver and passenger sides. It’s possible that the heat is set to turn on only on one side by default. Adjusting the settings to activate heat on both sides can solve the issue.
3. Battery Voltage and Charge
A weak or low battery can also prevent the heat from turning on with remote start. The remote start system requires a certain level of voltage to engage various functions, including the heating system. If your vehicle’s battery is weak or not properly charged, it may not have enough power to activate the heat when using remote start.
Make sure to check your battery’s voltage and charge level. If it’s below the recommended range, consider charging or replacing the battery to ensure efficient operation of the remote start system and the heat function.
4. Malfunctioning Temperature Sensors
The temperature sensors in your vehicle play a crucial role in regulating the heat and allowing it to turn on automatically with remote start. However, if these sensors malfunction, it can prevent the heat from activating when you start your vehicle remotely.
It’s important to have your vehicle inspected by a professional if you suspect a malfunctioning temperature sensor. They can diagnose the issue and replace any faulty sensors that may be causing the problem, allowing your heat to turn on seamlessly with remote start.
5. Remote Start System Compatibility
Lastly, the remote start system itself may not be compatible with your vehicle’s heating system. Certain aftermarket remote start systems may not have the necessary features or programming to activate the heat when starting the engine remotely.
If you have recently installed a remote start system or purchased a vehicle with an aftermarket system, it’s possible that the heat function wasn’t integrated into the installation properly. In such cases, consulting with the manufacturer or a professional installer can help you determine if there are any compatibility issues and find a suitable solution.
In conclusion, there can be various reasons why your heat doesn’t turn on with remote start. It could be due to limitations of the remote start system, vehicle settings and programming, battery voltage, malfunctioning temperature sensors, or even compatibility issues with the remote start system itself. By understanding the possible causes, you can troubleshoot the problem more effectively and ensure a comfortable and warm driving experience during those chilly winter months.