Support>Keys and Locks>Key Fob and Remote Start>How do I remote start my Ford vehicle?

How do I remote start my Ford vehicle?

You can remote start* your vehicle using your key fob, the FordPass®** App, or Apple® Watch after activating your FordPass® Connect† modem. Use the steps below for more information.

Remote Start Requirements

Before you begin, ensure the following conditions are met:

How to Remote Start

For more details on how to remote start your vehicle, select one of the drop-down options below for more details. 

Using FordPass

  1. Log in to FordPass.
  2. Go to the Vehicle screen.
    • Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) Vehicles and Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs) - Slide the Start toggle to the far right of your screen. The request will load and your vehicle status will change. Once your vehicle is on, the expected run time will appear.
    • Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) - Tap the Fan icon. Your vehicle's preconditioning will begin. The request will load and your vehicle status will change. Once your vehicle is on, the expected run time will appear.

If you experience any issues, contact a Guide using the Account > Contact Help options in FordPass. 

Using Your Key Fob

  1. Press the Lock button on your key fob to lock all the doors.
  2. Press the Remote Start button (2X) twice. Steps must be done within 3 seconds.
    • The exterior lamps will flash twice and the vehicle will start.
    • For some vehicles, a light on your remote will let you know if your start was successful.
    • The horn will sound if the system fails to start unless Quiet Start is on. Quiet Start runs the blower fan at a slower speed to reduce noise. You can switch it on or off in the information display.
    • The power windows will not work during the remote start and the radio will not turn on automatically.
    • The parking lamps will remain on, and the vehicle will run for five, ten, or fifteen minutes, depending on the setting.

Notes: 

  • Only use remote start when your vehicle is outside in a well-ventilated area.
  • You can disable or enable remote start through the information display. 
  • Check your local and state laws for any restrictions on remote start systems.

Using your Apple Watch

  1. Open FordPass on your watch screen.
  2. Select your vehicle.
  3. Scroll down to the second screen.
    • For Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) Vehicles and Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEVs):
      • Slide the start toggle to the right to start your vehicle, 
      • Slide the start toggle to the left to stop your vehicle, 
    • For Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs):
      • Tap the fan icon to start your vehicle,
      • Ensure your screen says "Stop" and tap the fan icon to stop your vehicle.

Once the command is successful, the icon will turn blue.

If you experience any issues, contact a Guide using the Account > Contact Help path in FordPass. 

How can I personalize the remote start duration?

After remote starting, your vehicle can run for five, ten, or fifteen minutes before shutting off. This duration is configurable in your vehicle settings. If your vehicle fails to automatically shut off, you will be notified. 

To configure your run duration, review the Extend Remote Start steps.

What if the remote start does not work?

Further Troubleshooting Options

If you are experiencing other issues, visit the FordPass Troubleshooting topic folder for additional support. 

Additional Information

Are there other ways to start my vehicle?
How do I schedule a remote start?
What should I do if my activation is pending?
Why does my Ford vehicle enter Deep Sleep mode?
How do I stop a remote start request in FordPass?

*Automatic transmission only.

**FordPass® App, compatible with select smartphone platforms, is available via a download. Message and data rates may apply.

Apple is a trademark of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.

†FordPass® Connect, the FordPass App, and complimentary Connected Service are required for remote features (see FordPass Terms for details). Connected service and features depend on compatible AT&T network availability. Evolving technology/cellular networks/vehicle capability may limit functionality and prevent operation of connected features. Connected service excludes Wi-Fi® hotspot.

††Don’t drive while distracted or while using handheld devices. Use voice-operated systems when possible. Some features may be locked out while the vehicle is in gear. Not all features are compatible with all phones.