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Are you dealing with remote starts just beeping and don’t know why?
Remote start is a feature in modern cars that lets you start the engine remotely using a key fob or smartphone app.
It’s a convenient feature allowing you to preheat or cool down your vehicle before you drive. However, it doesn’t work sometimes and just beeps.
This article will explore some common causes for remote start just beeping and what you can do to fix the problem.
We will also discuss the steps you should take before seeking professional help to save time and money.
Common Causes Why Remote Start Just Beeping
Here are the common causes for remote start just beeping:
1. Doors are not closed and locked while the hood is not completely latched
A remote start will not work if your car doors are not closed and locked, as it is a security measure to prevent theft.
Also, the hood must be completely latched for the remote starter to function properly, instead of beeping.
An open hood can indicate that someone is attempting to tamper the engine.
2. Dead battery in the key fob
The key fob uses a battery to transmit the signal to the car. If the battery is low or dead, the key fob cannot send a strong signal to the vehicle to start the engine.
It is a common cause of remote start failure and can be fixed by replacing the battery.
3. Fuel level is too low
When the fuel level is too low, the remote start won’t work properly or just beep.
There are also vehicles that have a feature wherein the remote starter will add fuel before driving.
You can check your manual if this feature is available in your remote start system.
4. Key fob out of range
The key fob must be within a certain distance from the car to receive the signal. The range may vary depending on the vehicle model, but generally, it’s around 100-200 feet.
If you are too far from the car, the signal will not reach the vehicle, and the car will just beep.
5. Vehicle in gear
Most remote start systems will not work if the car is in gear. It is a safety precaution to prevent the vehicle from moving on its own.
If the car is in any gear except park mode, the remote start will not work.
6. The vehicle’s alarm system is active
Some cars come with an alarm system that can prevent the remote start from working if it is active. If the alarm system is triggered, the remote start will not work.
7. The remote start system is in valet mode
Some systems have a valet mode that disables the remote start feature. If the system is in valet mode, it will beep to alert you.
8. Key is in the ignition and the brake pedal is pushed
When your key is in the ignition, it bypasses the remote starter functions. Therefore, it might not work when you start your remote or just beeps.
Also, if the brake pedal is pressed, this will prevent the vehicle from starting, so the remote cannot function.
9. Other technical issues
Sometimes there can be other technical issues with the remote start system. It could be a faulty module or a problem with the car’s onboard computer.
What To Do When Your Remote Start Just Beeps?
Here are some tips on what you should do when your remote start just beeps:
Check the battery in the key fob: The key fob uses a battery to transmit the signal to the car. Make sure the key fob battery is not low or dead.
You can check the battery status by pressing the button on the key fob. If the LED light is dim or not lighting up at all, it’s time to replace the battery.
Bring the key fob closer to the vehicle: Make sure you are within the range of the car. You must be around the range which is 100-200 feet.
It will ensure that the signal will reach your vehicle to start the engine instead of beeping only.
Put the vehicle in park mode: Make sure you put your car on park mode before you start remotely.
If it’s in gear mode, the system won’t work as it prevents your car from moving. It is a safety precaution for your car, so ensure to put it in park mode.
Deactivate the alarm system: Some cars come with an alarm system that can prevent the remote start from working if it is active.
Ensure the alarm system is not triggered. If it is triggered, deactivate it by using the key fob or the car’s central locking button.
Contact a professional for technical issues: If you have checked all of these causes, still problems persist, it is best to contact a professional for assistance.
A professional mechanic or a dealer can diagnose and fix any technical issues with the remote start system.
They will be able to check the car’s computer and the remote start system module. They’ll identify if there is any problem and, if necessary, replace the faulty component.
How to fix Remote Start Just Beeping
Here are some tips on how to troubleshoot and fix a remote start system that is beeping:
- Check the installation: Ensure the remote start system is installed correctly. Look for any loose wires or connections that may have come loose.
- Check the battery: Make sure the battery in the remote start fob is not dead. If it is, replace the battery and try again.
- Check the valet mode: Some systems have a valet mode that disables the remote start feature. Make sure the system is not in valet mode. If it is, consult the owner’s manual to find out how to disable valet mode.
- Check the configuration: Make sure the remote start system is properly configured. Consult the owner’s manual to find out how to configure the system.
- Try to start the car manually: if the vehicle can start manually but not by remote start, it may be an issue with the remote starter. You should contact the installer or the manufacturer for assistance.
- Ensure that the doors are locked, the hood is completely latched, the fuel level is good, and the brake pedal is not pressed. It will help your remote function properly instead of beeping.
If none of the steps work, try to reset the remote start system by following the instructions in the owner’s manual.
If you cannot fix the problem with these steps, it is best to contact the installer or the manufacturer for further assistance.
Conclusion
Remote start provides convenience to your driving. It allows you to start your car remotely without the need to get inside your vehicle.
Also, it allows you to preheat the car before you drive, giving you more comfort when the weather is too cold.
However, sometimes it doesn’t work as intended and just beeps.
It is important to determine the causes of why it only beeps and doesn’t start your car.
After assessing the reasons and the problems still persist, it is best to consult an experienced mechanic for assistance.
We hope that by following the steps on how to fix and troubleshoot a remote start that only beeps helps you save time and money.
James has been a car enthusiast since his childhood when he learned the differences between a ford and a chevy from his father. He loves to drive and restore old cars with a special drive for Italian marvels. Currently, he has a 1968 Alfa Romeo. He has studied aeronautics and civil aviation in his college and still gets smitten by Galant SS and Lancer GSR.
He is a New York-based product training director working with a giant automotive retailer. He loves to review and uncover the vehicles and their fascinating stories. He believes in keeping it legitimate with a keen passion for research on the latest technological upgrades in cars. While reading his articles or blogs, you can sense the extensive research and dedication backing the piece of text. He loves fried chicken, music, and spending quality time with his pet dog.