Consider the following scenario: It’s a chilly morning, and you’re eager to get into a warm, cosy car. When you press the remote start button, there is silence rather than the relaxing hum of your engine. The dreaded check engine light on your dashboard chooses to join the party, which only makes things worse.
Your remote starter typically stops functioning when the check engine light is on. When it senses an issue with the car’s engine, this safety function stops you from starting the vehicle. You can try a fresh battery in the remote starter to see if that solves the problem. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to figure out what set off the check engine light. The check engine light may illuminate for multiple reasons.
What is happening? Don’t panic! we’ll look at several reasons for the remote start not working and check engine light on in your car in this article. Along with possible causes, we’ll go over easy fixes to get you back on the road without a hitch.
Table of Contents
Understanding Remote Start And The Check Engine Light
Before delving into the specifics of causes of why your remote start not working and check engine light on in a car. Therefore, now firstly let’s see some basics of the topic for a better understanding.
1. Remote Start:
Using a key fob or smartphone app, a remote start system enables you to start your car’s engine from a distance. Extreme weather situations benefit greatly from this feature, which enables you to warm up or cool down your car before getting inside.
2. Check Engine Light:
The check engine light acts as a warning signal on your dashboard and is frequently represented by an emblem of an engine. When it turns on, your car’s onboard computer (ECU) has likely discovered a problem with the engine or one of several other internal components.
Let’s examine the causes of the check engine light turning on and the remote start not working now that we have a fundamental understanding of these two parts.
Common Causes Behind Remote Start Not Working And Check Engine Light On?
It can be a great hassle if your remote start doesn’t function and the annoying check engine light comes on. Here are some common causes behind the remote start not working and the illumination of the check engine light on your car’s dashboard.
1. Loose Fuel Cap:
Unbelievably, a loose gas cap can make the check engine light come on. To function properly, the gasoline system in your car needs to be tightly sealed. The emissions control system in your car may malfunction if the gas cap isn’t fastened tightly. The answer? After a few drives, the light should go away if you simply tighten the gas cap.
2. Low Oil In Engine:
For proper operation, your car needs enough oil. The engine may not function correctly and the check engine light may turn on if the oil level falls too low. Watch your oil levels and top them out as necessary.
3. Dirt In The Engine Oil:
Therefore, for a number of reasons, dirty oil can cause the issue of remote start not working and check engine light on. The most frequent explanation is that hot engines might result from filthy oil. To stop additional harm, the engine will automatically shut off when it overheats. This can still occur even when the car is parked in the garage and not being driven.
4. Worn-Out Oil Filter Or Fuel:
Engine issues may result from an outdated and worn-out oil filter in your car. The engine may struggle to start if it doesn’t receive clean oil, which will also damage your remote start. This problem can be resolved with routine oil changes and new filters.
5. Low Battery:
Your car’s battery or the battery in your key fob may occasionally be depleted or dead. This may cause the check engine light to come on and possibly prevent the remote start from working. So, check the condition of your batteries. If necessary, change them.
6. Engine Problems:
The check engine light may come on if there are problems with your car’s engine, such as misfiring, faulty sensors, or exhaust problems. Your remote start could be uncooperative if the engine is unhappy.
7. Irritable Sensors:
Air, fuel, and other sensors are used in modern automobiles. However, if one of these sensors malfunctions, the check engine light may illuminate and your remote start system may become inoperable. A mechanic is required to locate and replace the problematic sensor.
8. Issues With The Security System:
The security mechanism in your automobile may occasionally prevent remote starting. Although it’s intended to protect your car, it can mistake your remote start attempt for suspicious activity.
Keep in mind that more complicated issues could also be at play if your remote start isn’t working and the check engine light is on occasionally.
Solutions For Remote Start Not Working And The Check Engine Light Coming On In Your Car:
There are some straightforward fixes you can try before taking your car to repair if your remote start isn’t functioning and the annoying check engine light is on. Here are a handful of them, shall we?
1. Check The Gas Tank:
In some cases, if your automobile is out of fuel, a remote start won’t operate. Make sure the vehicle has enough fuel before starting it remotely.
2. Screw The Gas Cap Tight:
Unbelievably, a gas cap that isn’t tightly sealed or that is loose might cause the check engine light to come on. After filling your tank, make sure it is firmly fastened.
3. Examine The Oil Cap:
Similar to the oil cap, a loose or missing oil cap can cause the check engine light to illuminate. Make sure it is firmly in position and tightened by checking twice.
4. Add Oil:
Low engine oil levels might cause engine issues and turn on the check engine light in your automobile. If your oil is low, top it off to the appropriate level.
5. Examine Air Filters For Dirt:
The performance of your car might be impacted by clogged air filters, which may also turn on the check engine light. Replace your car’s dirty air filter with a new one.
6. Clean The Mass Airflow Sensor (MAF):
Your car’s engine may suffer from a filthy MAF sensor, which could also interfere with remote starting. using a special MAF sensor cleaner to clean it.
7. Battery Check:
Problems with remote starts can result from a weak or dead battery. Check the voltage of your battery yourself or hire an expert to do so.
8. Clear Error Codes:
To check for and erase error codes, use an OBD-II scanner if you have one. The check engine light may occasionally continue to illuminate as a result of an earlier problem that has since been fixed.
It’s best to seek the advice of a mechanic if the issue of the remote start not working and check engine light on persists or if you have questions about any of these fundamental troubleshooting techniques.
What Is A Repairing Cost To Fix This Issue?
The price to repair a car with a check engine light on and a broken remote start can be very different. Simple problems like key fob battery replacements or software updates could cost anything from $20 to $100. A broken sensor might cost between $100 and $300 to fix. However, it can cost between a few hundred and over a thousand dollars if the engine issue is more complicated.
The average cost of a professional diagnostic scan is $50 to $100. Remember that these are only rough estimates, and the actual costs may vary depending on the precise issue and the labour rates at the repair shop of your choice.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, it can be annoying if your car’s remote start not working and check engine light on. Be at ease, though! Before thinking about the security system, check the batteries first. Consult a specialist for assistance if the check engine light continues to illuminate. To ascertain the issue, they can make use of a unique tool.
The issue could be with a sensor or piece of software, but they can solve it. Regular auto inspections are crucial as well. By maintaining your automobile, you may benefit from the comfort of remote starting and travel worry-free. Do not hesitate to ask if you require anything, have any questions, or require any assistance. Your car’s well-being is our first priority. Driving safely and happily!
