Mazda Remote Start Not Working (How to Fix It Yourself)
Are you experiencing issues with your Mazda remote start system? If yes, you must be looking for answers on why this is happening and how you can revive this highly convenient feature. This guide will share helpful tips on how to fix your remote start feature.
Mazda remote start not working can be attributed to a variety of issues ranging from a weak or dead key fob battery to an active security system, illuminating check engine light, range issues, obstacles, improper use, disabled remote feature, and a faulty remote start system.
In this article, you’ll discover all the hidden culprits behind your Mazda remote system refusing to start your engine. We’ll also share troubleshooting tips for each culprit to help you restore the functionality of your car remote system.
Why Your Mazda Remote Start Is Not Working
Below are the most common causes for remote start feature failure in your Mazda vehicle and the best fix for each issue:
A weak or dead key fob
This is by far the most common culprit for a malfunctioning remote start in Mazda cars. If your key fob battery is weak or dead, the key fob won’t be able to send a signal to your car to start the engine.
Solution: Check your key fob battery and replace it with a new one. Consult your owner’s manual for the correct steps for battery replacement.
Range issues
Like any other check remote start, Mazda comes with a limited range of around 100ft or less. This means trying to use it out of this range can cause starting issues. If you try starting your car from too far away distance, the signal may fail to reach it.
Solution: Try moving closer to your car and try to remote start it again.
Obstacles
Various obstacles between your key fob and the car can also lead to the remote start failing to work.
Some of these obstacles include trees, walls, other vehicles, etc. These tend to block the signal from reaching your car, thus making it unable to start.
Solution: Ensure there exists a clear line of sight between your key fob and the car and then try restarting the car again.
Signal interference
Remote systems are based on radio frequency communication. Therefore, any nearby device emitting radio waves can easily interfere with the communication between your key fob and your car.
Some of the devices that emit radio waves include your smartphone, WiFi routers, remote controls, etc.
Solution: Consider turning off or moving away from these devices and then try starting your car again.
Programming issues
Your Mazda remote start system settings may not be correctly configured, and this is another reason it may fail to activate.
Solution: Access the menu and try adjusting the system accordingly. Alternatively, ask a professional for assistance in reprogramming your vehicle.
Incorrect remote start use
Many car owners are guilty of this. You may be using your remote start the wrong way, and this could be another reason it seems to be malfunctioning.
When it comes to the incorrect remote start sequence, you’ll need to ensure certain conditions are met before you attempt to remove tart your vehicle.
For instance, you should ensure your vehicle is in park mode before activating the remote start, the doors should be closed, and the hood and lift gate too are closed.
Moreover, the brake pedal shouldn’t be depressed and the shift lever should be in park mode.
Ensure your vehicle is not in service/valet mode, which automatically stops your remote start from engaging as a safety precaution.
Solution: Make sure you follow the correct remote start system use procedure. Once you have met all the conditions, then you can press the start button and release it after the specified length of time to see if your car starts.
Consult your user manual for more details on the exact procedure to follow when using the remote start and stick to it at all times.
Vehicle theft-deterrent system is engaged
Your Mazda security system may be another potential reason behind the remote system’s failure to engage.
If this security system is armed, it may prevent the remote start from functioning properly. This is usually a safety precaution to prevent unintentional engine start or protect your car from theft.
Solution: Ensure the security system in your car is disarmed before you attempt to remote start your vehicle.
Check engine light is on
If your remote starts system won’t engage and the check engine light is on, this could be another reason behind the failing remote start.
Anytime your vehicle check engine light comes on, it is trying to communicate to you that your vehicle computer has detected an issue with your car engine/system that could affect the vehicle operation.
The remote start may be programmed not to engage if the check engine light is on as a safety precaution.
Solution: In this case, the best thing to do is get your car computer scanned for the trouble codes that triggered the check engine light to illuminate.
Looking up these codes pulled out will give you an idea of what issue you’re dealing with. Get this issue fixed to clear the CEL and restore your remote start feature.
The remote start feature is disabled
Your remote start feature in your vehicle may also be disabled, thus causing your car not to start with the press of the button on your key fob. These remote starts usually feature an on/off switch that can be accidentally turned off.
Solution: Check your user manual for the location of the remote starter switch and check whether it is turned on or off. If the button is in the off position, simply turn back it on and try to remote start your vehicle.
Malfunctioning remote start module or key fob
If you still haven’t found the culprit up to this point, then the remote-started system itself could be faulty.
Either the remote control module or the key fob may have issues preventing it from functioning correctly.
The key fob itself could be having damaged internal components, affecting its ability to properly communicate with your car remote start system.
Solution: Have a Mazda technician or dealership inspect your key fob and remote start module for any faults and repair or replace it as necessary.
Vehicle electrical system issues
Yes, vehicle electrical system-related issues can also lead to the remote starter in your Mazda vehicle functioning.
These issues can range from a bad battery to corroded battery terminals, blown fuse, electrical system wiring faults, bad starter/alternator, or ignition switch malfunction.
Solution: Have a professional Mazda technician perform a comprehensive diagnosis of your car for any underlying electrical system issues interfering with the proper functioning of your remote start system.
Why Your Mazda Remote Start Turns Off After Starting?
Your remote start turning off shortly after starting it can be caused by a variety of issues like low car battery charge or vehicle computer system-related issues.
Safety issues such as the doors being opened during the remote start sequence may also cause your car to turn off after starting it with your car.
Issues with your car engine, e.g. a bad sensor or low oil pressure, can also lead to this problem. If the fuel level is low, the engine may also automatically shut off
Communication issues between your remote start system and the car computer may also cause this problem.
Also, the remote system itself maybe experience issues such as key fob malfunctioning, wiring issues, etc., which can cause the system to turn off a while after a successful startup.
Sometimes the engine may stop if 15 minutes have passed since you started your car.
We advise you to have your vehicle checked by a Mazda technician and the underlying issue resolved.
How Do You Reset Your Mazda Remote Start?
Follow these steps to reset your Mazda remote start feature:
Step 1. Turn your car ignition to the “ON” position
Step 2. Press and hold the remote start button on your key fob for approx. 5 seconds. The hazard lights on your car should flash three times to confirm a successful reset.
Step 3. Release the button and turn off your ignition. Your Mazda remote start should now be ready to use again.
You may want to check your user manual for more info on how to reset your specific Mazda vehicle remote start system.
Why Your Mazda Remote Start Only Works Sometimes
In some cases, your Mazda remote start may only work sometimes. This intermittent behavior can be caused by a variety of issues.
One common issue is a weak key fob battery that’s nearing depletion. If you haven’t replaced your key fob battery in a long time, you may want to change it to fix this intermittent issue.
Another possible cause of this issue is remote start programming issues. You may want to get a qualified Mazda technician or dealership to diagnose this issue and fix it as necessary.
Extreme weather conditions may also make your remote start to only work sometimes. Weather conditions like snow, heavy rains, etc., tend to interfere with the signal between your vehicle and the remote key fob, resulting in intermittent communication.
Sometimes, a faulty security system may also make your remote start function only work sometimes. In this case, we advise you to take your car to the dealership or qualified auto mechanic for repair.
Why Is Your My Mazda Remote Start App Not Working?
If your Mazda remote start app isn’t working, there could be several issues to consider. These include:
- Poor internet connection
- Your app could be outdated
- The app may have gone down due to a temporary service outage
- Check if you have turned on the ad-blocker
- You may need to clear your app cache
- The app may fail if you’re using a VPN
If your MyMazda App stopped working, try troubleshooting it taking into consideration the key problems we’ve listed above.
Check your internet connection, clear your app cache, and ensure you’ve installed the latest updates.
Additionally, we recommend trying to close and reopen your app to see if it works. You can also log out and try to log in again.
While understanding the nuances of Mazda’s remote start issues, it’s beneficial to recognize that this is not an isolated occurrence across car brands. For instance, GMC Acadia owners might be familiar with remote start challenges, and our guide on GMC Acadia remote start not working elucidates the specifics. Furthermore, Lexus, a renowned luxury brand, isn’t exempt from such issues either. Our detailed article on Lexus remote start not working provides a deeper dive into potential solutions for their lineup.Conclusion
Your Mazda remote start system failing to work can be a frustrating experience but understanding what causes it can help you easily fix it. This article has just discussed the potential causes that affect remote functionality such as weak/dead key fob battery, poor signal strength, range issues, obstacles, check engine light, improper use, security system interference, and a faulty remote start system.
By following the troubleshooting tips we’ve discussed under each issue, you should be able to address most of these issues on your own. However, if the problem persists after trying our troubleshooting tips above, consult a qualified Mazda auto technician or your dealership for professional assistance.
