Is Your Lincoln Remote Start Not Working? Here Is What You Need To Do

Remote start adds an extra level of convenience and luxury to your ownership experience. It is particularly beneficial during extreme weather conditions. It can be frustrating when you rely on the convenience of remote start, only to find that it’s not functioning properly.

So why is your Lincoln remote start not working? There can be various reasons for this inconvenience. Your vehicle might have entered deep sleep mode, the check engine light could be on, or the remote start feature may be disabled in the dashboard menu. 

Additionally, a faulty hood switch, dead key fob battery, improper starting procedures, or your vehicle being in valet mode could also contribute to the problem. Continue reading to explore all the possible reasons behind this problem and get tips to diagnose and potentially fix the issue.

Why Is Your Lincoln Remote Start Not Working?

There can be several reasons why your Lincoln remote start is not functioning correctly. Here is a delve into some of the most common causes:

1. Your Vehicle Went Into Deep Sleep Mode

Modern Lincolns have a deep sleep mode feature to conserve battery power. However, this feature can sometimes interfere with the remote start functionality. The deep sleep mode in your Lincoln vehicle is activated when the following conditions are met:

• Extended vehicle inactivity: The deep sleep mode is triggered when your vehicle remains inactive for a consecutive period of 14 days.
• Low battery voltage: Another condition for activating deep sleep mode is when the battery voltage drops below 9.5 volts. This helps conserve battery power during prolonged periods of inactivity.

Solution:

To wake your Lincoln from deep sleep mode, manually start your vehicle and allow it to run for a while to wake up the system.

2. Check Engine Light Is On

If your check engine light is illuminated, it can prevent the remote start from working. The check engine light indicates that there may be an underlying issue with your vehicle that requires attention. 

Solution:

Here is how to diagnose why your check engine light is on.

Step 1: Ensure the gas cap is tightly closed, as a loose or damaged cap can trigger the check engine light.

Step 2: Use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve error codes from your vehicle’s onboard diagnostic system. It will provide insight into the issue triggering the check engine light.

Step 3: Visually inspect the wiring and connections related to the components indicated by the error codes to identify any loose, damaged, or disconnected parts.
Step 4: Inspect the vehicle for any noticeable fluid leaks, as low fluid levels or leaks can trigger the check engine light.

Step 5:  If you cannot determine the cause of the check engine light or resolve the issue alone, you should seek assistance from a certified mechanic. They will do a thorough diagnosis and repair.

3. Remote Start Disabled in the Dashboard Menu

Sometimes, the remote start feature can be accidentally disabled in the vehicle’s dashboard menu. Check your Lincoln’s user manual to locate the menu option and ensure that remote start is enabled. 

Solution:

If it is disabled, simply enable it, and your remote start should start working again. Here is how to do it.

• Step 1: Access the dashboard menu by navigating to your Lincoln’s infotainment system’s settings or vehicle control section.
• Step 2: Once in the dashboard menu, find and select the “Settings” option to access the vehicle’s customizable settings.
• Step 3: Within the settings menu, locate and select the “Vehicle” option.
• Step 4: Select the “Remote Start” option within the settings menu to access the remote start settings.
• Step 5: Within the remote start settings, locate the checkbox on “System” and check or toggle it to the “On” position.
• Step 6: Exit the dashboard menu and ensure the changes are saved and applied.

4. Faulty Hood Switch

The hood switch plays a crucial role in the remote start system. It ensures that the hood is securely closed before enabling the remote start. If the hood switch is faulty or misaligned, it may send incorrect signals to the system, preventing the remote start from functioning. 

Solution:

Inspect the hood switch for any visible damage or misalignment. The detent on the switch should be nice and fluid. Then disconnect and reconnect the connector to ensure it’s placed correctly. 

Finally, bend the switch up a little so that when you close the hood, the switch gets fully depressed. Here is a video showing you how to do it.

5. Dead Key Fob Batteries

The key fob is responsible for sending the remote start command to your vehicle. If the batteries in your key fob are dead or low, it can prevent the remote start from working. 

Solution:

Replace the batteries with a new one and test the remote start again. Here is how to replace the batteries.

• Step 1: Remove the emergency key from your key fob.
• Step 2: Use the key to prop open the back of the key fob, where you will find the round silver battery.
• Step 3: Use a screwdriver to pop out the dead battery and replace it with a new one.
• Step 4: Close the key fob with its back cover and then return the emergency key to your key fob.

6. Improper Starting Procedure

In some cases, the remote start may not work due to an incorrect starting procedure. Ensure that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely when using the remote start feature. This includes pressing the correct buttons on the key fob or using the designated mobile app.

Solution:

Here is how to correctly remote start your Lincoln using the key fob.

Step 1: Press the lock button twice on the key fob to lock the vehicle’s doors.

Step 2: A second later, press the remote start button twice (usually depicted by a “2x” icon) on the key fob until the vehicle’s lights flash or you see a green flashing light on the key fob. Your vehicle will then start.

7. Your Vehicle Is in Valet Mode

If your Lincoln is in valet mode, the remote start feature won’t work. Valet mode is a security feature that limits certain vehicle functions, including remote start. You will know your vehicle is in valet mode if you try to start it and it honks six times.

Solution:

Here is how to disable valet mode in your Lincoln.

• Step 1: Tap the Settings option on the vehicle’s touchscreen.
• Step 2: Look for the Valet Mode menu within the Settings.
• Step 3: Select the Exit Valet Mode option from the menu.
• Step 4: Input your unique four-digit code on your wallet card in the glove compartment to disable valet mode and regain access to the touchscreen controls.

Tips to Help You Remote Start Correctly

If you’re facing issues with your Lincoln’s remote start, here are some tips to help you diagnose the problem:

1. Ensure you are logged into the Lincoln Way app with the right credentials: If you’re using the Lincoln Way app for remote start, ensure you’re logged in with the correct credentials. Double-check your username and password to ensure you have access to the remote start functionality.
2. Check instrument cluster to ensure remote start is on: Inspect your Lincoln’s instrument cluster to verify that the remote start feature is turned on. The cluster may display a specific icon or message indicating the status of the remote start system.
3. Check for any signal interference: Snow and other physical objects can interfere with your remote start signal. So ensure that there is nothing between you and your car when you try to remote start.
4. Confirm the trunk and hood are closed: Ensure that your vehicle’s trunk and hood are securely closed. If any of them are slightly open or not closed properly, the remote start system may not engage.
5. Ensure you are within range: Your remote start usually has a range of about 300 feet. So ensure you are in this proximity when trying to remote start your vehicle.

If your Lincoln’s remote start feature is not responding as expected, you’re not alone in grappling with this frustrating issue. Similar remote start problems might also occur in other models, such as Lexus vehicles and Subaru Crosstrek, both of which could also face challenges with their remote start functionality. For Lexus vehicle owners encountering remote start problems, our article on Lexus remote start not working provides insights into diagnosing and resolving this specific issue. Additionally, if you’re dealing with a Subaru Crosstrek that won’t start, our article on Subaru Crosstrek won’t start offers valuable guidance for addressing starting-related concerns in that model. By exploring these resources, you’ll be better equipped to address remote start concerns and starting challenges effectively.

FAQs

Here are a couple more additional questions you might be asking yourself now.

Conclusion

Experiencing issues with your Lincoln remote start not working can be frustrating. Still, by understanding the possible causes and following the tips above, you can diagnose and potentially resolve the problem. Remember to check for deep sleep mode and verify the status of the check engine light. 

Also, ensure the remote start feature is enabled in the dashboard menu, and inspect the hood switch and key fob batteries. n. If the problem persists, contact a certified Lincoln technician for further assistance.