Lexus Remote Start Not Working (Quick Fixes)
Are you feeling frustrated about your Lexus remote start failing to work? If yes, you’re not alone. A quick search on different Lexus forums will tell you that this problem is quite common. This guide will discuss helpful details regarding this issue.
Lexus remote start not working can be caused by a variety of issues such as weak/dead key fob battery, low car battery, improper activation sequence, necessary remote start conditions not being met, programming issues, expired remote start App, signal interference, active anti-theft deterrent system, among others.
In this article, we have discussed full details regarding your Lexus remote start system malfunctioning. We have discussed all the potential causes behind this issue plus troubleshooting tips to help you resolve each problem.
Why Your Lexus Remote Start Is Not Working
You can start your Lexus remotely using your key fob or smartphone app, thanks to the factory-installed Lexus Enform Remote system.
However, sometimes this feature may fail to work. And this can be attributed to a variety of factors discusses below:
The key fob battery is weak or dead
Probably the most common reason behind your Lexus remote system failing to work is a weak or dead battery in the key fob.
It’s a no-brainer that a weak or battery nearing depletion means the key fob won’t be able to send signals to your car to turn on the engine.
Solution: To fix the key fob battery issue, you’ll need to remove the old battery from your key fob and replace it with a new one.
Be sure to use the correct type and size of the replacement battery. Moreover, ensure you install it correctly.
Afterward, test your remote start feature to see if it’s functioning again after the new battery installation.
Low car battery
Low car battery warning may also be preventing your vehicle remote start from engaging.
Low battery charge means your car won’t have enough power to activate the remote start, leading to unsuccessful remote start attempts.
Solution: You’ll need to use a multimeter to test your battery voltage. If it reads voltage below the recommended level, then you should recharge or replace your battery.
If the battery is good, check whether its connections are tight and secure, and corrosion free.
If they’re loose or corded, they may be restricting power flow to the remote start control module. Be sure to clean off any corrosion and tighten the battery cables.
Your car is not in the remote start-ready mode
Another common reason why your Lexus remote start feature may not be responding is due to your car not meeting all the conditions required for this feature to work.
For instance, your hood may be open. In this case, the remote start may fail to engage as a safety precaution to avoid the car from starting when someone is checking the engine.
Solution: You’ll need to check that all the conditions required for the remote start to work are met.
These may include ensuring all the doors are locked, the trunk and hood are properly closed, and that the parking or neutral gear is engaged in your car.
If you’re not sure what to check, you should consult your user manual on how to make your Lexus remote start feature ready.
Incorrect use
It’s also likely that you’re using your remote start incorrectly, thus stopping it from responding.
This is more common than you think and usually affects people who do not take the time to understand the correct Lexus remote start sequence.
Solution: The correct procedure for remote starting your car is usually outlined in your vehicle owner’s manual or even on the Lexus website, so you shouldn’t struggle to find this crucial info.
Generally the process involves the steps below:
- Press and release your key fob LOCK button twice in a matter of 2 seconds. Make sure the hazard lights flash with each press.
- Now press and hold the lock button for approx. 3 seconds. The hazard lights ought to flash once and then several times after the 3 seconds).
- The engine will then start after approx. 10 seconds. And your vehicle hazard lights will flash for 10 seconds.
Signal interference
Signal interference can also make your Lexus remote start feature to malfunction. Devices that emit radio waves, e.g. your cellphone, laptops, etc., can easily disrupt communication between your key fob and the car remote system.
Solution: Move away from any potential electric devices that may be interfering with the signal. Where possible, move these devices to eliminate signal interference.
Obstacle and range issues
The remote start usually has a limited range of around 100ft. Going outside this range can make the system to fail.
In addition, various obstacles e.g. trees, walls, other cars, etc. might be standing in the way and causing the signal not to reach the car.
Solution: Try moving closer to your vehicle to see if it will respond to pressing the key fob button.
Moreover, ensure there’s a clear line of sight between you and your vehicle to eliminate the possibility of obstacles making your remote start fail.
Programming issues
Incorrect programming of your remote start system can also cause it to malfunction. Also, if there is a software glitch with the system, it will lead to starting troubles.
If your system was recently installed, programming issues could be the reason it is not working.
Solution: Consult your user manual on how to correctly reprogram your Lexus remote start system. Be sure to precisely follow the outlined steps and enter the correct sequences or codes.
If you’re not sure about the programming process, consult a qualified technician or Lexus dealership for assistance.
Your Enform Subscription has expired
Lexus Enform App allows you to remote-start your car from the comfort of your smartphone. If your subscription to this app expires, it may also give you a hard time trying to remote-start your car.
Solution: In this case, you’ll need to check your Enform subscription status by simply logging into your account (accessible from the Lexus website).
If your subscription has already expired, consider renewing it to restore your remote start functionality.
However, if you still have an active subscription, then you may consider consulting Lexus customer support for further assistance.
Faulty key fob remote
Your key fob remote itself may be faulty, and this can affect communication within the remote start control module in your car. Consequently, you’ll have problems trying to remote-start your vehicle.
Solution: You can check if your remote is sending/receiving signals by testing the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob. If these buttons seem to respond properly, your key fob may be fine.
However, if they don’t respond, you may consider reprogramming your key fob (check your vehicle’s owner manual or visit the Lexus website for more info on how to reprogram your remote).
If the remote still doesn’t work after reprogramming it, consider vising your dealership for further assistance.
Anti-theft deterrent system
You may also want to check if your vehicle’s anti-theft deterrent system is armed. This feature helps prevent unauthorized access to your car. But it may interfere with your remote start functionality if not disarmed properly.
Solution: Check whether your vehicle security system is disarmed properly before you attempt to remote start your car. You can also consult your user manual on the correct way to deactivate your vehicle’s anti-theft system.
How do you make your Lexus remote start system start working again?
To make your Lexus remote system start again, you’ll need to troubleshoot it for the potential culprit causing it to fail.
We have already discussed how to diagnose and fix various potential causes in the previous section, so we won’t go into those details again.
You’ll need to check the following:
- Check your key fob battery life
- Check your car battery health
- Clear any obstacles and devices that may be interfering with the signal
- Get closer to your vehicle
- Ensure the security system isn’t engaged
- Ensure all the doors, hood, and trunk are closed
- Confirm that your car is in parking mode.
- Ensure your car is parked in a clear and open area where there are no obstacles and other interferences that might affect the remote start
If the problem persists after doing the above troubleshooting basics, then we recommend you consult a professional technician or your Lexus dealer for further assistance.
Why Is Your Lexus Enform App Not Working?
If you use your Lexus Enform app to remote start your car and it’s not working, the first thing to check is whether you have created a Lexus Enform app account.
Confirm that you entered the correct username/password in the application and that it matches what you used when creating your account online.
Next, you want to ensure you have a good internet connection. If your phone is disconnected from the internet, then the app will definitely not work.
If you have ruled out the above issues, then you may want to check whether you are using an outdated app.
In this case, make sure you upgraded to the latest version of the app. You can easily access the latest app updates from the Lexus website.
Why Lexus Remote Start Turns Off When The Door Opens
Your car engine turning off after you open the door when using the remote start function is usually intentional. It helps ensure the safety and security of your car and the occupants inside.
When you open the door, the remote start system assumes that someone is trying to enter the car and needs manual intervention to enable them to operate it further.
In this case, the engine turns off to prevent potential accidents and prevent unauthorized access.
Can You Remotely Start Lexus Without A Subscription?
Yes, it’s possible to start your Lexus without a subscription, depending on what model of the car you’re using.
Some Lexus models feature a built-in remote start system that you can operate using a key fob.
However, newer models come with the Enform remote service to enable you to remote start your car using the smartphone App.
If your vehicle model lacks a factory-installed remote start function, you can have an aftermarket system installed by a qualified technician.
You can then operate this system using a key fob or smartphone App.
Check the video below for more info on how to remote start your Lexus without a subscription
Video:
While you’re diving into the intricacies of Lexus’s remote start system, it’s beneficial to realize that various car brands, irrespective of their prestige, encounter their own set of challenges. For instance, Kia, known for its modern designs and features, has its share of remote start concerns, which we’ve addressed in our guide on Kia remote start issues. Similarly, the rugged and beloved Jeep Grand Cherokee isn’t exempt from this issue. Our detailed exploration on Jeep Grand Cherokee remote start not working sheds light on the common problems and their potential solutions.Conclusion
Your Lexus remote start may fail to work due to many different reasons, including a weak/dead key fob battery, low car battery, improper use, signal interference, range issues, expired Enform subscription, programming issues, active vehicle security system, faulty key fob, or due to various conditions for the remote start to work not being met.
We advise you to diagnose your vehicle to help you find the exact reason the remote start is failing. This way, you’ll get to know what needs to be fixed to restore the remote start functionality. Remember, if you can’t seem to resolve the issue on your own, you should get a qualified auto technician to diagnose and fix the issue for you.