Will a Remote Start Work if Your Check Engine Light is On? – Exploring the Answer

The answer to the question “Will remote start work if the check engine light is on?” depends on the cause of the check engine light. Generally, a remote start system will still work if the check engine light is illuminated, but any underlying issues causing the check engine light to come on must be addressed before starting the vehicle remotely. If an issue is detected with a vehicle’s emissions system, a remote start system may not function properly until repairs have been made and the warning light has been reset. It is recommended that any issues causing a check engine light to come on are diagnosed and repaired before attempting to use a remote start system.

Automobile: Will Remote Start Work if Check Engine Light is On?

The check engine light on a car can be a source of anxiety for many. It’s important to understand the risk factors and potential problems associated with operating a vehicle with a check engine light on, including the possibility of preventing remote start from working.

Can a Car with Check Engine Light On Remote Start?

Remote start is a feature that allows you to start your car from afar. Depending on the make and model of your car, you may be able to use your key fob, smartphone, or other device to start your car without actually being in it. However, whether or not this feature will work if your check engine light is illuminated depends on several factors.

For example, it may depend on the severity of the issue that triggered the check engine light as well as the specific make and model of your vehicle. Some cars have sensors that are designed to prevent remote starting when there is an underlying problem that needs addressing. Therefore, it is best to consult your owner’s manual or contact an automotive technician for advice about whether remote start will work in this situation.

Common Reasons Why Check Engine Light Comes On

There are numerous reasons why the check engine light may come on in your vehicle. Common causes include faulty oxygen sensors, loose fuel caps, and spark plug and wire issues. If you notice any strange smells coming from your exhaust or see any smoke coming from under the hood or tailpipe, these could also be signs of trouble and should be addressed right away.

It’s important to note that if you do not take care of a problem after seeing the check engine light come on, it could cause further damage over time and potentially even lead to an accident if left unaddressed for too long. Therefore, it’s important to have an automotive technician diagnose and fix any underlying issues as soon as possible when you see this warning sign appear in your dashboard display.

What To Do If Check Engine Light Is On?

As mentioned above, it’s important to have an automotive technician diagnose any underlying issues when you see the check engine light come on in your dashboard display. The technician will use specialized equipment such as an OBD-II scanner to identify what is causing the problem so they can repair it correctly and safely. In some cases, they may also need to replace certain components such as spark plugs or oxygen sensors depending on what they find during their diagnosis process.

It’s also important not to ignore any other warning signs or symptoms associated with whatever is causing the check engine light issue in order to prevent further damage over time or even potentially dangerous accidents due to neglecting an underlying problem for too long without having it addressed by a professional mechanic as soon as possible.

Benefits Of Remote Starting Your Car

Remote starting has become increasingly popular in recent years due its convenience and comfort benefits – especially during colder months when having warm air ready before getting into a car can be especially desirable! Additionally, remotely starting your car can provide added security benefits thanks to its ability deter would-be thieves who are often looking for cars left unattended with their ignition running so they can steal them quickly before anyone notices what they’re doing!

Potential Problems With Remote Starting Your Car

While remote starting can provide added convenience and security benefits for drivers who use this feature regularly, there are some potential problems associated with using this feature too often such as battery drainage which can occur if you leave your car idle while remotely started for too long without taking action such as turning off the ignition manually after a certain period of time has passed – otherwise known as “timed out” scenarios! Additionally, some makes/models may require additional safety measures before remotely starting such as parking brakes being engaged prior which should always be done regardless of make/model regardless of whether using remote start features or not!

Tips for Safely Remote Starting Your Car With Check Engine Light On

Remote starting your car can be a convenient way to warm up your engine and prepare for a drive, but if the check engine light is on, it’s important to take extra precautions. The check engine light will indicate that there is a problem with the vehicle’s electrical system that needs to be addressed before remote starting. Here are some tips for safely remote starting your car when the check engine light is on:

Have The Problem Diagnosed and Fixed Immediately

The first step in safely remote starting your car with the check engine light on is to have the problem diagnosed and fixed immediately. If you attempt to remote start the vehicle while there is an issue with its electrical system, it could cause further damage or even put you in danger. Have your mechanic diagnose and repair any issue your car may have before attempting to remote start it.

Have The Components That Are Connected To The Vehicle’s Electrical System Inspected Regularly

In addition to having any issues with the vehicle’s electrical system repaired immediately, it’s important to have all components that are connected to the vehicle’s electrical system inspected regularly. This includes spark plugs, fuel injectors, sensors, wiring, and more. Having these components inspected regularly can help prevent problems from arising in the first place and ensure that all components are functioning properly before attempting to use remote starting technology.

Make Sure It Is Safe To Use Remote Starting Technology While There Is A Malfunction Indicated By A Check Engine Light

Finally, it’s important to make sure that it is safe to use remote starting technology while there is a malfunction indicated by a check engine light. If there are any other warning lights illuminated on your dashboard or if you hear any strange noises coming from your car when attempting to remote start it, it’s best not to proceed until you get the issue checked out by a professional mechanic. Taking these extra precautions can help ensure that everything runs smoothly when you attempt to remotely start your car with the check engine light on.

FAQ & Answers

Q: Can a car with check engine light on remote start?
A: Yes, a car with the check engine light on can be remotely started, however it is not recommended as it may put additional strain on the engine. It is best to have the issue diagnosed and repaired before attempting to remote start the vehicle.

Q: What is remote start?
A: Remote start is a technology which allows you to start your car from a distance. It uses a wireless signal from a key fob or smartphone app to activate the starter motor and turn on the vehicle’s ignition system.

Q: Does check engine light affect remote start?
A: Yes, if there is an issue indicated by the check engine light then it may affect how well your car will respond when using remote start technology. It is best to address the issue before attempting to remotely start your car.

Q: What are some common reasons why check engine light comes on?
A: Common reasons for why the check engine light might come on include faulty oxygen sensor, loose fuel cap, spark plugs and wires issues, and other mechanical problems.

Q: What should I do if my check engine light is on?
A: If your check engine light is illuminated then you should have an automotive technician diagnose the problem and take steps to fix it as soon as possible. Neglecting to address this issue could result in more serious problems in the future.

In conclusion, it depends on the type of check engine light and the cause behind it. If it is a minor issue, then remote start may still be able to work even with the check engine light on. However, if the issue is more serious, then the car may not start until the issue has been resolved. Therefore, it is important to identify and diagnose the cause of the check engine light before attempting to use remote start.

Author Profile

Carl Frisch
Carl Frisch
With more than 30 years in the bicycle industry, I have a strong background in bicycle retailing, sales, marketing and customer service. I have a passion for cycling and a dedication to excellence. As a manager, I worked diligently to increase my capabilities and responsibilities, managing up to eleven mechanics (at Palo Alto Bicycles) and later as a working partner in my own store.

As the shop owner of Spoke n’ Word Cycles in Socorro, NM, the success of the mission was my responsibility, which I pursued passionately since we opened in 2003 through the spring of 2011. I am adept at managing owned and loan inventory, preparing weekly & annual inventory statements, and managing staff. The role as managing partner also allowed me tremendous freedom. I used this personal freedom to become more deeply involved in my own advancement as a mechanic, to spearhead local trail building, and advocating for cycling both locally and regionally.

As a mechanic, I have several years doing neutral support, experience as a team mechanic, and experience supporting local rides, races, club events. I consistently strive to ensure that bicycles function flawlessly by foreseeing issues and working with the riders, soigners, coaches and other mechanics. Even with decades of experience as a shop mechanic and team mechanic, and continue to pursue greater involvement in this sport as a US Pro Mechanic, and UCI Pro Mechanic.

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