How To Start Buick Encore [With Remote Start And With A Key]

New car models are coming out every year with technology that seems like it might be straight from the future! Buick Encore is no different. In recent years they have made many updates to improve the ease and safety of their product line. You may have noticed the newer models have no place to use a key. With all the new features available with your car, you'll want to know all the ways you can turn on your Buick Encore! We have thoroughly investigated this topic and found some answers for you.

If your Buick Encore does not come with the traditional key start, there are a few ways to start the car.

Key fob with the push button
Remote key start
Remote start app

Starting your Buick Encore may involve a different process than you are used to, but don't worry! We'll discuss each way to start your Buick Encore. Keep reading as we break down the different methods and what to do if your key fob fails.

How Do You Start A Buick Encore With A Key?

In earlier models, to start the car you may have had to feel around your pockets, juggling items until you found the key to start the car. If you look for the ignition to insert a key in newer models of the Buick Encore, you may not find one. A Buick Encore that is equipped with push-button ignition will start as long as the vehicle senses that the key is inside the car. This feature is standard in models 2017 and newer.

To start the car, make sure the vehicle is in the park position and press down the break with your foot. Then, press the ignition button. Once it detects your key, the car will start.

How To Start A Buick Encore When Key Fob Fails

If your car fails to start and the key fob is somewhere on you or in the vehicle, there may be an issue with interference such as other items in the bag with the transponder or the battery. Use the backup area in the Buick Encore to get around these issues.

After a second attempt, you will receive a message advising you to use a backup spot. On many Buick models, you would place the key in the front cup holder. It is equipped with a sensor that will sense even a dead or dying key fob. Press the ignition button to start the car.

In the newer Buick Encore models, look for this spot in the center console. It should be a small depressed area behind the rear tray and in front of the storage area in the center. Place the key with buttons facing up in this area to start the car. If the car only starts with the fob in the backup spot, replace the battery as soon as possible.

To replace the battery on the key fob, use the cut key or metal key to open the fob casing. Use a 2032 lithium battery to replace.

See these replacement key fob batteries on Amazon.

Are you still having trouble with your key fob? Read our article on troubleshooting a faulty key fob.

Check out this video for more information on starting an Encore that has a dead key fob:

How Do You Remote Start A 2020 Buick Encore?

To ensure your car is cool in the summertime and warm in the winter, you'll want to know how the remote start functions. This feature is available on most newer model cars. To verify if it's available on your vehicle, consult your specs or simply try the following on your key fob.

To start a Buick Encore remotely with the key fob, press and release the lock button and then press the circular arrow until the car starts. In most models, the car will run for 10 to 15 minutes before turning off again if the car is not started with the ignition button or does not detect the key. The video below illustrates this with a 2019 Buick Encore. The 2020 Buick Encore will start the same way.

Does Buick Have A Remote Car Starting App?

Another way to start your Buick Encore is through an App. Any model that is enabled with the Buick Infotainment center and has remote start functionality can work with the myBuick Mobile App. To use, you will need to subscribe to the Remote Start service through Onstar. Once activated you will be able to open the app and start your car.

How Much Does It Cost To Add A Remote Start To a Buick Encore?

Currently, connect the Buick Remote Access plan to your app for as little as 14.99 a month. You'll be able to lock and unlock, as well as start your car remotely as long as your vehicle is already factory-equipped with remote access ability and automatic locks.

If your car does not have the remote start factory installed, you may be able to add it to your vehicle if it has an existing push-button ignition. These remote start kits range in price from around $60.00 to $240. There is some debate as to whether they will always work and about the skill level needed to install them. Always consult your owner's manual before installing any after-market devices to avoid voiding your manufacturer's warranty.

Click here to see an after-delivery remote start system on Amazon.

What Comes With The Buick Remote Access Plan?

Along with the ability to remote start your car, other features can be accessed with the My Buick Remote Access plan on your app.

Vehicle Locate

With the Vehicle Locate via the myBuick app, locating your car after a long trip to the mall doesn't have to be difficult. Open the app on your phone to easily pinpoint your vehicle's location. You can also set boundaries and get notifications if your car has moved out of the allowed area.

On-Demand Diagnostics

You don't have to rely on the generic check engine light anymore. This sophisticated diagnostic tool will allow you to get help from an Advisor once an issue is detected. You can then use the app to schedule service.

In-Cabin WiFi

Turn your car into a wifi hotspot. Get unlimited 4G LTE Data to access for streaming and surfing on up to 7 devices.

How To Start Buick Encore With The MyBuick App

After subscribing to a Remote Access plan, open your MyBuick App on your phone. On the Menu screen, select the Key Fob to remotely manipulate your vehicle. Though you can use the app to unlock, lock and turn on your car, it is important to note that you will not be able to move the vehicle without the keyfob being in the car.

What To Do If You Lose Your Buick Encore Key

If you lose the key fob to start your car, purchase a replacement through your dealership. There are also replacement fobs available online. While many come with a flip-out blade, to get it keyed to your car you would need to bring it to a dealership or keysmith. Plan to show identification, registration, and your vehicle VIN when asking for a key to be cut. For more about what you can do if you lose your car keys, read our article here.

Click here to see this 3 button key fob on Amazon.

See this 4 button proximity and remote key fob on Amazon.

How To Program A Buick Encore Remote Start Key

To program your buck encore key, you will need to have a cut key. If you do not have one available you will need to contact a locksmith or your dealership to have a key cut. This is a time-intensive process. Plan to spend around 35 to 45 minutes to complete the steps.

Turn the key in the key slot to the left 5 times.
Once you receive a message saying that the engine is learning on the dash, wait 10 minutes.
After 10 minutes, if the dash turns off enter the car and close the door, then open again. You should see "Press Engine Start Button..." on the screen.
Press the Engine Start button and wait another 10 minutes.
Close and open the door again. Press the Engine Start button and wait a final 10 minutes.
Close the door and open it a final time. Press the Engine Start button.
Once you see the message saying it is ready for the first remote, place the key fob in the backup spot for your vehicle. This could be the front cup holder or on some models, it's in the middle console in front of the storage compartment, then press the engine start button.
Press the Unlock button on your keyfob.
Hold the Engine Start button for 12 seconds to exit the programming mode.
Test Your Key Fob.

Keep Your Key Fob In A Safe Place

Now that you know how to start your Buick Encore both from inside the car and remotely, keep your key in a safe place when not in use. Although the remote start features are very convenient, they do carry a risk. Anyone who has your key will be able to identify the car it starts with a simple tap of the button.

For added protection use the Infotainment Dashboard to customize your remote controls. If you suspect your key fob has been stolen, contact a certified Buick dealership or repair center for options on getting your ignition rekeyed.

You may also be interested in the following:

What SUVs Have Keyless Entry?

What SUVs Have Remote Start?