Remote starting your Chevy Equinox can be a lifesaver, especially on hot summer days or cold winter mornings. This convenient feature allows you to pre-condition your vehicle's temperature before you even get inside, ensuring a comfortable ride. However, the exact method for remote starting varies slightly depending on the year and trim level of your Equinox. This guide will walk you through the common methods and troubleshooting tips.
What Year is Your Chevy Equinox?
The remote start system in your Chevy Equinox depends heavily on the model year. Older models may use a key fob with dedicated buttons, while newer models integrate the feature within the infotainment system or through a dedicated mobile app. Knowing your vehicle's year is the crucial first step.
Remote Starting Using Your Key Fob (Older Models)
Many older Chevy Equinox models utilize a key fob with specific buttons for remote start. Typically, you'll need to press and hold a button labeled "Start" or a similar designation. The exact process might involve holding the button down for a specific duration, or a combination of button presses. Your owner's manual is your best resource for precise instructions tailored to your specific model year.
Important Considerations:
- Vehicle Location: Ensure your vehicle is within a reasonable range of the key fob. The range can vary but is usually within a few hundred feet. Obstacles like buildings or thick foliage can reduce the effective range.
- Transmission Position: The transmission must be in "Park" for the remote start to function correctly.
- Doors Locked: Make sure your vehicle doors are locked. Attempting a remote start with unlocked doors may fail.
- Safety Features: Some models might have additional safety features, like requiring the vehicle to be within a certain distance or disengaging the remote start if the vehicle senses an obstacle. Review your owner's manual carefully.
Remote Starting Using Your Infotainment System (Newer Models)
Newer Chevy Equinox models often incorporate remote start functionality directly into the infotainment system. This usually involves accessing a specific menu within the touchscreen display. The exact steps may vary depending on the infotainment system's software version, but you'll generally find an option within the settings or vehicle controls.
Important Considerations:
- Connectivity: Make sure your Equinox is connected to your smartphone's hotspot or a stable Wi-Fi network if the remote start function relies on such connectivity.
- OnStar Integration: Some newer Equinox models use OnStar integration for remote start. If this is the case, you'll need to have an active OnStar subscription.
- App Compatibility: Check your infotainment system's compatibility with your phone and the associated app, if one is required.
Remote Starting Using the Chevy MyChevrolet App (Some Models)
For certain model years, Chevy offers the MyChevrolet mobile app, which allows you to remote start your Equinox directly from your smartphone. This app typically requires you to register your vehicle and create an account. The app will then allow you to control various functions, including remote starting, lock/unlock, and checking vehicle status.
Important Considerations:
- App Download: Download the official MyChevrolet app from the appropriate app store (Google Play or Apple App Store).
- Account Creation: Create a MyChevrolet account and link it to your vehicle.
- Data Connection: You will need a strong data connection on your phone for the app to function correctly.
Troubleshooting Remote Start Issues
If you're experiencing problems with your remote start system, consider these common causes:
My Chevy Equinox Won't Remote Start! What Should I Do?
- Check the Key Fob Battery: A weak or dead key fob battery is a frequent cause of remote start failure. Try replacing the battery.
- Verify Vehicle's Range: Ensure you're within the effective range of your key fob or mobile app.
- Check Transmission Position: Confirm the transmission is in "Park."
- Examine the Owner's Manual: Refer to your owner's manual for specific troubleshooting steps for your model year.
- Consult a Dealership: If you've tried all basic troubleshooting steps and still cannot remote start your Equinox, schedule an appointment with a Chevy dealership for professional assistance.
This guide provides a general overview. Always consult your Chevy Equinox owner's manual for precise instructions and troubleshooting specific to your model year and features. Remember, safety is paramount, so always be mindful of your surroundings when remote starting your vehicle.
