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Why does your remote start stop when the doors are open? A remote start is a feature that allows you to start the engine without going inside the driver seat.
It uses a smartphone app or a key fob to activate. Remote start is helpful, especially during cold weather.
It allows you to warm up your car before you get in so that you can drive comfortably.
However, if you’ve ever used remote start and opened your car door, you may have noticed that the engine immediately stops.
In this article, we will briefly explain why it occurs and what you can do about it.
Why Does the Remote Start Stop When the Door is Opened?
Remote starts are designed with convenience and safety in mind.
One of the safety features that causes the engine to shut off when a door is opened is known as the “door lock/unlock feature” or “door trigger” feature.
It is a common feature in most remote start systems. The feature ensures safety by automatically shutting off the engine when the door is opened.
It is intended to prevent anyone from getting into the car and driving it away without the proper key or key fob.
The remote start feature works by being connected to the door sensors on the car.
If you activate the remote start, the system will send a signal to the car’s computer to start the engine.
However, when a door is open, the sensor sends a signal back to the car’s computer indicating the door has been opened.
Then, the car’s computer will send a signal to the engine to shut off, resulting in disabling the remote start.
The feature is designed to help prevent thefts and accidents. It may happen when someone gets into the car driving it away without a key or key fob.
It also ensures that the vehicle is not left unattended, which is dangerous and can cause damage to the engine.
Why Does the Remote Start Stop When the Door Is Open Important?
This feature is important for several reasons, and it includes the following:
Theft prevention: It is an important feature preventing theft from getting into your car and driving it without key or key fob.
If your engine does not shut off when the door opens, your vehicle might be taken away. Without your notice, the car is gone while you are still warming it up.
Safety Purposes: It ensures that the car is not left running unattended. It is dangerous and also can cause damage to the engine.
It also prevents accidents if someone gets into the car and tries to drive it away without a key or key fob.
If your engine still runs even if the doors are open, it may compromise the security and safety of your vehicle when it’s not you opening it.
Regulation Compliance: Most states have laws and regulations that prohibit leaving a car unattended while running. The feature ensures compliance with those regulations.
Fuel savings: Many people use remote start to warm up their cars during the winter.
This feature helps prevent the vehicle from being left running for extended periods, saving fuel and reducing emissions.
This feature is a common and important aspect of remote start systems.
It is designed to protect the vehicle and prevent potential accidents or thefts while ensuring compliance with laws and regulations.
What to do When Your Remote Start Stop When Doors Are Open?
If the remote start stops when you open the door, there are few things you can try to resolve the issue:
- Check the owner’s manual. Consult the owner’s manual for your specific car to see if there are any troubleshooting steps for resolving this issue.
- Check the door sensors. Make sure that all the doors on the car are closed properly and that the door sensors are functioning correctly.
- Check the key fob. Make sure that the key fob is working properly and that the batteries are not dead.
- Check the remote start system. Make sure that the remote start system is functioning properly and that it is properly configured for your car.
- Check for software updates. Some cars have software updates downloadable to fix bugs or improve the performance of the remote start system.
- Visit the dealership. If you still need help, visit the dealership where you purchased the car and have them diagnose and fix the problem.
Suppose you find this feature too restrictive for your needs and would like to disable or bypass it. It is significant to check the legality of doing so.
Be aware that disabling this feature could void the warranty or even cause security problems.
It’s also important to check the car’s manual or consult the manufacturer before making any changes to the system.
How to Bypass or Disable the Safety Feature?
If you find the feature too bothersome and want to drive your car right after you start the engine. You can bypass or disable it, here are some ways to do it.
Overriding the Feature
One solution is to override the feature by holding the remote start button on the key fob until the engine starts.
However, this option is only available in some vehicles. The steps may also vary based on the car model.
Therefore, it’s important to check the car’s manual or consult the manufacturer to confirm the exact steps.
Disabling the Feature through Software
Some cars have software updates downloadable to disable or bypass the feature.
However, this option may not be available for all vehicles, and the steps may vary based on the car model. Again, check your car’s manual.
Bypass Module
Some aftermarket companies offer a bypass module that is installable to disable or bypass the feature.
These modules are often used for cars that are not intended for a remote start. But can also be used for other vehicles.
However, it’s important to check this option’s legality. Also know that installing these modules could void the warranty or even cause security problems.
Professional Installation
Some professional car audio installation shops may also be able to disable or bypass the feature.
But it’s important to check this option’s legality and be aware that this could void the warranty. Or worse, even cause security problems.
It’s important to note that disabling or bypassing the feature can make your car less secure. It could also put you in violation of the law.
Consider the pros and cons before bypassing or disabling the feature.
Conclusion
Remote start is a convenient feature that allows you to start your car’s engine remotely. But it can be frustrating if the engine stops when you open the door.
It is because of a safety feature built into most remote start systems causing the engine shut off.
This feature is intended to prevent anyone from getting into the car. Then, drive it away without the key or key fob.
However, the feature might be bothersome for some drivers. They can bypass or disable the feature, but must consult the laws and regulations of their state first.
It is important to note that bypassing the security feature will result in less security on your vehicle. We hope that the following information helps you in resolving the issue.
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.
