GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

This feature allows you to start the engine from outside the vehicle. It may also turn the rear window defogger if the outside temperature is below 45°F (7°C).

Laws in some local communities may restrict the use of remote starters. For example, some laws may require a person using remote start to have the vehicle in view when doing so. Check local regulations for any requirements on remote starting of vehicles.

If your vehicle is low on fuel, do not use the remote start feature. The vehicle may run out of fuel. The vehicle may also run out of fuel if the vehicle is running for a long period of time when parked on an incline facing downward with a low fuel condition.

If your vehicle has the remote start feature, the RKE transmitter functions will have an increased range of operation. However, the range may be less while the vehicle is running.

There are other conditions which can affect the performance of the transmitter, see Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) System for additional information.

(Remote Vehicle Start): This button will be on the RKE transmitter if you have remote start.

To start the engine using the remote start feature, do the following:

  1. Aim the RKE transmitter, equipped with the remote vehicle start button, at the vehicle.
  2. Press and release the transmitter's lock button, then immediately press and hold the remote vehicle start button until the vehicle's turn signal lamps flash, or for at least two seconds, if the vehicle's lights are not visible. The vehicle's doors will be locked.
  3. When the vehicle's engine starts, the parking lamps will turn on and remain on while the engine is running.

  4. If it is the first remote start since the vehicle has been driven, repeat these steps, while the engine is still running, to extend the engine running time by 10 minutes. Remote start can be extended one time.

After a remote start, the engine will automatically shut off after 10 minutes unless a time extension has been done or the vehicle's key is inserted into the ignition switch and turned to ON/RUN.

The maximum number of remote starts or remote start attempts between ignition cycles with the key is two.

If the remote start procedure is used again before the first 10 minute time frame has ended, the first 10 minutes will immediately expire and the second 10 minute time frame will start.

After your vehicle's engine has been started two times using the remote start button, the vehicle's ignition switch must be turned to ON/RUN and then back to LOCK/OFF using the key before the remote start procedure can be used again.

After entering the vehicle during a remote start, insert and turn the key to ON/RUN to drive the vehicle.

To manually shut off the engine after a remote start, do any of the following:

    • Aim the RKE transmitter at the vehicle and press the remote start button until the parking lamps turn off.
    • Turn on the hazard warning flashers.
    • Insert the vehicle's key into the ignition switch and turn the switch to ON/RUN and then back to LOCK/OFF.

The remote vehicle start feature will not operate if:

    • The remote start system is disabled. See "REMOTE START" under DIC Vehicle Personalization .
    • The vehicle's key is in the ignition.
    • The vehicle's hood, liftgate or doors are not closed.
    • The hazard warning flashers are on.
    • There is an emission control system malfunction.
    • The engine coolant temperature is too high.
    • The oil pressure is low.
    • Two remote vehicle starts have already been provided. The maximum number of remote starts or remote start attempts between ignition cycles with the key is two.

Remote Start Ready

If your vehicle does not have the remote vehicle start feature, it may have the remote start ready feature. This feature allows your dealer/retailer to add the manufacturer's remote vehicle start feature.

See your dealer/retailer if you would like to add the manufacturer's remote vehicle start feature to your vehicle.