How to Use the Remote Start in a Chevy Cruze

Modern cars offer more than just transportation – they provide comfort and convenience. In this article, we unveil the magic of remote start, turning your Chevy Cruze into a cozy haven even before you’re inside.

The Chevy Cruze has a remote start feature in model years 2011 and newer.

Chevy Cruze How to Enable Remote Start Heated Seats

While the remote start feature is built-in with most newer cars, the option doesn’t usually turn on climate control by default. For Chevy Cruze, the climate control system turns on based on ambient temperature and conditions. Manual AC resumes from where you left off, while automatic AC sets to attempt the ideal temperature based on the sensor readings.

You can also turn on your Chevy’s heated seats (if you opted for the upgrade when buying your car). You’ll need to use the Chevy’s infotainment system to enable the setting manually. Here’s how:

1. On the home page, tap on “Settings.”
2. Hit “Vehicle.”
3. Go to “Remote Lock, Unlock, and Start.”
4. Press on “Remote Start Auto Heat Seats.”
5. Check “On” to enable the option.

Chevy Cruze How to Use Remote Start via Key Fob

If your Chevy has a remote start feature built-in, your stock key fob will have the remote start button, which looks like a circular arrow and is located below the lock and unlock buttons.

Using the key fob to start your car remotely is simple:

1. Press the lock button.
2. Press and hold the remote start button for a few seconds.
3. Your car’s lights will flash, and the engine will turn on if the remote start was successful.

Once initiated, the remote start feature lasts for 10 minutes or until someone gets into the car with the key and starts driving. You can repeat the process to extend the current timer to a total of 10 minutes again, regardless of how much time is left. So, if it’s been operating for 6 minutes, repeating the process will give you a total of 16 minutes.

On newer cars, the timer might last 20 minutes, with an additional 20-minute extension. Check your car’s user manual for more information.

You can cancel the remote start by pressing the remote start button once.

Note that for these to work, you need to be within the key fob sensor distance, which is usually around 30 feet, but may be less as the fob’s battery drains.

Chevy Cruze How to Drive After Remote Start

The remote start procedure doesn’t actually allow you to drive the car remotely. You’ll still need the key fob:

1. Use the key fob to unlock the doors.
2. Insert the key in the ignition and put it in “Run.”
3. Press the brake and turn the ignition to “On.”
4. You can now shift into gear. The climate control system will remain as it was during remote start.

Chevy Cruze How to Use Remote Start via App

An alternative way to use remote start with your Chevy Cruze is through the official myChevrolet app, available for iOS and Android. This lets you bypass the standard key fob distance limits and send a signal via the internet. However, you will need an active subscription and account to use the digital key in the app.

Here’s what you’ll need to do:

1. Use the Google Play Store or the App Store to download the myChevrolet app.
2. Open the app and select your country and region.
3. Log in with your account credentials. If you don’t have an account, you’ll be prompted to create one and choose a subscription level.
4. Plug in your vehicle’s VIN and other details, which are available on the label inside the driver’s side door.
5. You may need to authenticate the pairing on your car’s infotainment system. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.

With the app set up, using remote start is quite easy:

1. Open the app.
2. Select your Chevy Cruze.
3. Tap on the big power button at the center.
4. The button will be replaced with a notification that your car has started and a countdown from 15 minutes will start. The default timer can be changed in your settings.
5. You can use the app to manipulate the car’s climate control system.

Note that the app isn’t a direct replacement for a lost key fob. The car still needs the physical key to allow the car to be driven.

Chevy Cruze Remote Start Requirements

Like with most cars that have a remote start option, the Chevy needs a few basic requirements to turn on remotely:

• The car’s doors need to be closed.
• All the windows, the trunk, and the hood need to be shut.
• The car needs to be in “Park.”
• The alarm needs to be enabled, but not triggered.
• The car needs enough fuel and battery charge.
• The hazard or service lights are not on.
• The key is not already in the vehicle.

If you encounter issues with the remote start not working, check to see if the doors are fully closed. A sensor malfunction might be causing the car to believe a door is open, or a broken latch might be preventing the lock from engaging fully.

Avoid using remote start in enclosed, poorly vented areas, near flammable items, or with children or pets in the car. Additionally, turn off windshield wipers and radio before leaving the car. These systems can drain the battery if left on, and wipers can get damaged if the car is frozen over.