Many 2004 Chevrolet Avalanche owners are curious about the capabilities of their key fobs, especially when it comes to remote start. You might be surprised to learn that your factory key fob could potentially activate a remote start system, often through a simple sequence of button presses. Let’s explore how this might work for your 2004 Avalanche.
It’s worth trying a straightforward method: press the LOCK button on your key fob three times in a row. This action is commonly used to trigger aftermarket remote starters that are integrated with the factory keyless entry system. If your Avalanche has such a system installed, you might observe the following sequence: after the third press of the LOCK button, the horn may honk (possibly on the last two presses), and then the engine should start.
When remote start is activated in this way, several security features typically engage. The vehicle will remain locked, with the parking lights illuminated, while the engine is running. To enter your Avalanche, you would use the UNLOCK button on your key fob or manually use your key in the door.
Once inside, to fully engage the vehicle for driving, insert your key into the ignition and turn it to the RUN position – importantly, do not turn it all the way to the START position again. After turning the key to RUN, press the brake pedal. A key security feature to be aware of is that if you press the brake pedal before inserting the key, the engine should automatically shut off. This is a safety measure to prevent unauthorized driving.
Another security component that may be installed with an aftermarket remote starter is a hood switch. This switch is designed to shut down the remote start system if the hood is opened while the system is active, offering an additional layer of protection against theft. However, it’s important to note that installers don’t always include this hood switch during installation.
Some advanced remote starter systems offer additional convenience features. One such feature allows the vehicle to continue running for a set period even after you remove the key from the ignition. This can be particularly useful in situations like briefly stopping at a store or for maintaining oil circulation in turbocharged engines. Keep in mind that this “key takeover” feature is not universal and depends on the specific aftermarket remote starter model installed in your 2004 Avalanche. The presence and operation of such features will vary depending on the specific system installed in your truck.
If the “three times lock” method doesn’t work for your 2004 Avalanche Key Fob, and you suspect a remote starter might be present, a next step would be to investigate under the dashboard. Look for a small, aftermarket control box that would be wired into the ignition switch wiring. Identifying a manufacturer’s name or model number on such a box could provide more specific information about your remote start system and its operation.
