What To Know
- Honda’s remote start system is a convenient feature that allows you to start your car from a distance using a smartphone app.
- While the remote start system was standard on higher trim levels of the 2016-2019 Honda Pilot, it was an optional feature on the base LX trim.
- The HondaLink app allows you to customize your remote start settings, such as the duration of the remote start and whether the climate control system should be activated.
The Honda Pilot is a popular SUV known for its spacious interior, powerful engine, and advanced safety features. But can you remote start your Honda Pilot from an app? The answer is yes, but it depends on the year of your vehicle and whether it’s equipped with the right technology. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about remote starting your Honda Pilot using an app, including compatibility, setup, and potential issues.
Honda Remote Start System: What You Need to Know
Honda’s remote start system is a convenient feature that allows you to start your car from a distance using a smartphone app. This can be extremely useful for preheating or pre-cooling your car before you get in, especially during extreme weather conditions.
Compatibility: Which Honda Pilots Can Be Remote Started From an App?
To determine if your Honda Pilot can be remote started from an app, you need to consider the following:
- Model Year: Honda introduced its remote start system with the 2016 Honda Pilot. If your Pilot is from a model year prior to 2016, it likely does not have this feature.
- Trim Level: While the remote start system was standard on higher trim levels of the 2016-2019 Honda Pilot, it was an optional feature on the base LX trim. For the 2020 model year and beyond, it’s generally an optional feature across trim levels.
- Equipped Features: The remote start system is integrated with Honda’s “HondaLink” system. To use remote start, your Pilot must be equipped with HondaLink and have the necessary hardware installed.
How to Check if Your Honda Pilot Has Remote Start
If you’re unsure whether your Pilot has the remote start feature, you can check the following:
- Owner’s Manual: Your owner’s manual will list all the features included with your vehicle.
- Vehicle Information Display: Some Honda Pilots display a remote start icon on the dashboard if the feature is equipped.
- HondaLink App: Download the HondaLink app on your smartphone and try to connect to your vehicle. If your vehicle is compatible, the app should be able to connect.
Setting Up Remote Start on Your Honda Pilot
Once you’ve confirmed your Honda Pilot is equipped with remote start, you’ll need to set it up. Here’s how:
1. Download the HondaLink App: Download the HondaLink app from the App Store or Google Play Store.
2. Create an Account: Create an account with HondaLink and link it to your vehicle.
3. Connect Your Vehicle: Follow the instructions in the app to connect your vehicle. This may involve entering your VIN or using a Bluetooth connection.
4. Configure Remote Start Settings: The HondaLink app allows you to customize your remote start settings, such as the duration of the remote start and whether the climate control system should be activated.
How to Use Remote Start on Your Honda Pilot
Once your remote start is set up, you can start your vehicle from the HondaLink app:
1. Open the HondaLink App: Open the app on your smartphone.
2. Select Your Vehicle: Choose your Honda Pilot from the list of vehicles.
3. Start Your Vehicle: Tap the “Remote Start” button.
Potential Issues with Remote Start
While remote start is a convenient feature, there are a few potential issues you should be aware of:
- Distance Limitations: Remote start functionality may be limited by distance from your vehicle. Typically, you’ll need to be within a certain range, such as a few hundred feet.
- Signal Interference: Remote start can be disrupted by signal interference from other electronic devices, buildings, or weather conditions.
- Battery Drain: Using remote start excessively can drain your car’s battery, especially if you’re not driving it regularly.
- Safety Concerns: Always ensure that your car is parked in a safe location before using remote start, especially in areas with high crime rates.
Remote Start Alternatives: Other Ways to Pre-Cool or Pre-Heat Your Honda Pilot
If your Honda Pilot doesn‘t have remote start, or you’re looking for alternative ways to pre-cool or pre-heat your car, there are a few options:
- Portable Car Coolers or Heaters: These devices plug into your car’s cigarette lighter and can help cool or heat the interior of your car.
- Window Shades: Using window shades can help block out sunlight and keep your car cooler during the summer.
- Parking in Shaded Areas: Parking your car in a shaded area can help keep it cooler in the summer.
- Pre-Cooling or Pre-Heating with the AC or Heater: You can turn on your car’s AC or heater for a few minutes before you get in to pre-cool or pre-heat the interior.
A Final Thought: The Convenience of Remote Start
The ability to remote start your Honda Pilot from an app can be a real convenience, especially during extreme weather conditions. While there are some potential issues to be aware of, the benefits of having this feature can outweigh the drawbacks for many drivers.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Can I use remote start with my car’s key fob?
A: Some Honda Pilots allow for remote start through the key fob, but this is not the same as remote start through the HondaLink app. If you have a key fob with remote start functionality, you can typically start your car by pressing a button on the fob.
Q: Can I use remote start if my car’s battery is low?
A: No, your car’s battery needs to have enough charge to power the remote start system. If your battery is too low, you may need to jump-start your car before you can use remote start.
Q: How long can I run my car with remote start?
A: The duration of a remote start session is typically limited by the car’s manufacturer. Most Honda Pilots will automatically shut off after a certain period of time, usually around 15 minutes. However, this can vary depending on the model year and trim level.
Q: Is remote start safe to use?
A: Remote start is generally safe to use, but it’s important to follow some safety guidelines. Always make sure your car is parked in a safe location before using remote start, and ensure that the parking brake is engaged. Also, be aware of your surroundings and avoid using remote start in areas with high crime rates.
