Experiencing trouble starting your Subaru using your key fob’s remote start feature? It can be frustrating when this convenient function fails, especially on a cold morning or hot afternoon. As a Subaru repair specialist at keyfobprog.com, I’ll guide you through some initial checks to diagnose why your Subaru might not be starting with the key fob.
First, let’s address some common oversights that prevent the remote start system from engaging. For the system to activate, certain conditions must be met to ensure safety and prevent accidental starts.
Are all your vehicle doors, including the hatch and hood, completely closed and securely locked? The Subaru remote start system is designed with safety in mind. If any door, hatch, or hood is ajar, or not properly latched, the remote start will be disabled. Double-check that everything is firmly closed and locked before attempting to remote start your vehicle.
Is your Subaru in “Park”? This might seem obvious, but it’s a crucial safety interlock. The vehicle must be in Park (P) for the remote start to function. If the system detects that the car is not in Park, it will not initiate the remote start sequence. Ensure your gear selector is firmly in the “P” position.
If you’ve confirmed that all doors are closed and locked, and your vehicle is in Park, but the remote start is still unresponsive, there might be a sensor issue. If the system worked previously but has recently stopped, a fault in one of the door, hood, or gear position sensors could be preventing the remote start from activating. These sensors are designed to send signals confirming that all safety conditions are met. If a sensor malfunctions, it can incorrectly signal that a door is open or the car is not in park, even when it isn’t the case.
When you attempt to remote start your Subaru, pay close attention to the feedback signals the vehicle provides. Do your lights flash? If so, how many times? Does the horn sound? And if it does, how many horn blasts do you hear? These signals are crucial for diagnosing the problem. The number of flashes and horn sounds can indicate specific issues within the remote start system or the vehicle’s security system. Refer to your Subaru owner’s manual to understand the specific meaning of these feedback signals.
Are you using the correct key fob sequence? The standard procedure for starting your Subaru with the key fob typically involves pressing the lock button, pressing it again, and then pressing and holding the remote start button. Ensure you are following the correct sequence for your specific Subaru model. Refer to your owner’s manual for the precise steps.
For advanced troubleshooting, it’s worth noting that Subaru systems allow for the registration of new stand-alone transmitters. If you suspect a problem with your key fob itself, or if you have acquired a new key fob, you might need to register or re-register it with your vehicle. Consult your Subaru owner’s manual for instructions on how to register a new transmitter. This process usually involves a specific sequence of steps performed inside the vehicle.
As a final, simple troubleshooting step before considering more complex solutions, try disconnecting your Subaru’s battery. Disconnect the negative battery terminal, wait a few minutes to discharge any residual electrical charge in the system, and then reconnect the battery. After reconnecting, manually start your Subaru once with the key in the ignition. Then, try using the remote start function again.
While disconnecting the battery might seem like a basic step, it can sometimes reset the vehicle’s computer system and resolve minor glitches that might be interfering with the remote start operation. Although it’s less likely to be the solution if the remote start hasn’t been used in a long time, it’s a quick and easy step to try.
If none of these troubleshooting steps resolve the issue, it’s recommended to seek professional assistance from a certified Subaru technician or a qualified automotive electrician. They will have the diagnostic tools and expertise to pinpoint the exact cause of the problem, whether it’s a faulty sensor, an issue with the remote start module, or a problem with the key fob itself.
