Remote start is one of the features that Chevrolet has been using on most of their vehicles since 2010, including the Chevrolet Equinox. However, like most features, the remote start sometimes fails to work.
But what causes Chevy Equinox remote start not to work? If you cannot unlock the vehicle using the remote, it’s probably faulty or has no batteries. However, if other features work, the remote will not work if you have already used it two times. Also, if the key fob is inside the vehicle the remote won’t start.
Read on to learn other possible causes why the Chevy Equinox remote start feature may not be working and the solutions.
Why Is Chevy Equinox Remote Start Not Working?
Before learning the possible reasons why the remotes start may not be working in your Chevy Equinox, ensure you’re doing it right.
- Ensure you’re within 197 feet of your Chevrolet Equinox.
- Point the key fob/ remote to the vehicle and press the lock button three times.
- Wait for at least five seconds, after which the engine will start.
- Some key fobs, like that on the LT trim, have a start button. Press and hold it for about five seconds for the engine to start.
If you have confirmed you’re doing everything right, then the problem may be elsewhere. Following are some reasons the Chevy Equinox remote start may not be working.
1. Dead Remote Battery
A dead battery is one of the major reasons the Chevrolet Equinox remote start may not be working. If the battery is weak, the key fob cannot send the signal to the car, starting it.
Solution
The solution to a dead battery is to replace it, which you can do at home without needing a technician. Buy a 2032 Lithium battery, available in most automotive parts shops or online. Also, you’ll need a small knife or a flat screwdriver to separate the remote.
Follow the steps below to replace the battery;
- Step 1. Remove the key inside the fob by pressing the silver button on the side and pulling it out.
- Step 2. Use the knife’s edge to separate the key fob at the seam by twisting the knife.
- Step 3. Use your fingers to separate the two parts completely.
- Step 4. Use the knife or the flathead screwdriver to remove the old battery from the key fob.
- Step 5. Install the new battery the same way you found the old one. In most fobs, the positive is facing down.
- Step 6. Assemble the key fob by gently pressing the opposites together.
- Step 7. Put back the key in the key fob.
- Step 8. Test the remote now.
The following video covers this process. Watching this will be convenient to understand the process, and you can DIY with ease.
2. Engine Problems
The car won’t start if it has known engine problems or the check engine light is illuminating on the dash. The problem must be diagnosed and fixed so the remote can work again.
Early problems of this problem include the engine shutting off after about 10 seconds.
Solutions
You can use the OBD 2 scan tool to determine the problem your engine has. Follow the steps below;
- Step 1. Locate the OBD port on your Chevrolet Equinox, usually on the left side of the driver side, just below the steering wheel.
- Step 2. Connect the OBD 2 Scan tool to the port.
- Step 3. Check whether your OBD operates with the vehicle on or idle.
- Step 4. Click to scan the vehicle.
- Step 5. Some scan tools display the Diagnostic trouble code and you must check the user manual to learn what the code means. However, some will show the problem too.
- Step 6. Get to the dealer or a mechanic to fix the problem
- Step 7. Test the remote start
3. Key Fob Inside the Vehicle
If you happen to have two key fobs and any of them is inside the vehicle, it won’t start. Trying to start even using the app while the key fob is inside the car won’t work.
Solution
If you want to keep one key fob in the vehicle for backup in case the other one gets lost, remove its battery.
4. Many Failed Attempts
If you have tried remote starting the vehicle too many times wrongly and in succession, the car engine won’t start using the remote.
Solutions
In this case, get into the vehicle, insert the ignition key, and turn it to the on position followed by the off. Get out, and then use the remote to start, and the engine should now run if the sequence is correct.
5. Software Problems
If the car (ECU) electronic control unit has problems either due to a software glitch or a programming issue, the remote start may not work.
Solutions
To fix the software issues, reset the car battery. Follow the steps below;
- Step 1. Turn off the vehicle
- Step 2. Disconnect the battery starting with the negative port
- Step 3. Wait for at least 15 minutes
- Step 4. Reconnect the battery
Related Questions
Following are the frequently asked questions related to Chevy Equinox remote starting issues that may help you if you have any questions remaining.
If your Chevy Equinox is not in parking gear, the remote start won’t work. Ensure you set the car gear to parking before leaving the car for the night so you can remotely start it in the morning.
An unclosed hood has been known to cause remote start not to work in most cars that use this feature. Ensure the hood on your Chevrolet Equinox is well closed before attempting to start it.
A loose gas cap can cause the remote start not to work on your Chevy Equinox. The gas cap may cause the Malfunction Indicator Lamp to illuminate or the check engine light. Resetting the cap will fix the problem.
Bottom Line
Remote start is a great feature that can save you the energy and time to walk and start your Chevrolet Equinox manually. When it develops problems, check the possible reasons mentioned above, starting with replacing the battery.
However, if the problems persist, visit the dealership nearby for a new key fob or a software update.