Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Remote Start System: Notes
Available on automatic transmission equipped vehicles only
DESCRIPTION
In addition to the standard starting system components, the remote starting system can consist of the following components:
Remote start conveniently starts the engine from outside the vehicle by using the RKE key fob while maintaining security. The system has a targeted range of at least 100 m (328 ft). The vehicle must be locked, the swing gate and hood closed and the transmission in PARK in order to start the engine using the Remote Start button on the key fob.
The remote start system can activate interior illumination, climate control, the optional heated/ventilated seats, and optional heated steering wheel depending on temperatures outside and inside the car. However, operation of the power top and the power windows are inhibited during the remote start event until the driver presses the push start button.
OPERATION
Remote Start Operation:
- The RFH detects that the remote start button has been pressed twice within five seconds. Note that if the remote start button is pressed again, this will terminate the remote start event.
- The RFH authenticates the key fob.
- The RFH then broadcasts several messages over the a Controller Area Network-Chassis (CAN-C) bus to the BCM indicating the physical position of the key fob, if the ignition is in run or start mode and if the vehicle is equipped with an Electronic Steering Lock (ESL) and the ESL's operative state.
- The BCM then receives the "Starter Enable" request over the CAN-C bus from the RFH.
- The BCM challenges and reads the states of the remote start inhibitors.
- If there are no active inhibitors, the BCM broadcasts the ignition commands request over the CAN-C bus, CAN-Interior High Speed (IHS) bus, and the Local Interface Network (LIN) bus networks. Any module or component that needs to use ignition inputs uses ignition outputs controlled by the BCM.
- The PCM receives the "Starter Enable" request over the CAN-C bus.
- The PCM initiates a minikrypt code exchange with the BCM. The BCM responds to this challenge with a verification acknowledgement to the PCM.
- If the minikrypt code exchange was successful, the PCM applies a Low Side Driver (LSD) as needed to energize the starter relay.
- Starter Relay is actuated. This relay is powered by a dedicated fuse in the PDC allowing the starter to crank.NOTE:
If the minikrypt verification was not successful, the PCM shuts down the engine after two seconds.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.