Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Remote Vehicle Start Circuit Description/Active
The BCM receives a signal from the keyless entry transmitter indicating a remote vehicle start request. The BCM and ECM use the following inputs to verify the system is ready to enable a remote vehicle start event:
- Vehicle is not in valet mode
- Vehicle is in park
- Keyless entry transmitter is not in the vehicle
- The hood is closed
- The hazard switch is OFF
- Vehicle power mode is OFF
- The malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) is not commanded ON by the ECM
- Remote start timer does not equal 0 (the 30 minute maximum time has not been used)
When the BCM determines all conditions meet those required for a remote vehicle start event, a message is sent via serial data to the ECM. While the ECM is in remote vehicle start mode it will cut fuel to the engine if any of the following monitored conditions occur:
- Vehicle speed is greater than 0
- Transmission is not in P
- Excessive engine coolant temperature
- Low oil pressure
- Engine crank time is greater than 30 seconds
- Excessive engine speed
- Accelerator pedal position too high
- Immobilizer system indicates a theft attempt
If any conditions prevent a remote start or cause a remote start operation to be cancelled there is a record of the cause in the scan tool.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.