The GMC Acadia is an SUV that provides safety and comfort to its passengers. It has a spacious cabin, and some models can accommodate up to seven people. Acadia offers safety features like forward collision alert, front pedestrian braking, and rear park assist. It also has keyless open and start functions. Car enthusiasts and dealers shared their two cents regarding these features, and we took notes on what they offer and how to use them.
The GMC Acadia comes with a key fob that allows the owner to start the engine from a remote location. This feature allows the owner to control the car with a touch of the key. You can also remote start Acadia using your smartphone with the myGMC Mobile App.
To get started:
- The Acadia should be in PARK mode.
- Press the LOCK button on your key fob.
- Press REMOTE START on your key fob and hold this button for four seconds.
- Watch as the turn signal flashes, and the engine starts.
- The Acadia will run for 15 minutes; afterward, it shuts off, and you should repeat this process to start remotely.
Being able to start your car without setting foot in it can be life-saving at times.Keep on reading this post to know more about the GMC vehicles and the proper use of remote start. You have a reliable car if it's from GMC.
Introducing the GMC Acadia
The Acadia, from General Motors Corporation, is an SUV that has a three-row seat for the interior. The first model came out in 2006. The earlier models are about the size of a minivan. The more recent models have a compact size, lighter, and are fuel-efficient.
The Acadia is available in automatic transmission. According to reviews, the latest models from 2018 to the present have the best performance.
It belongs to the mid-size SUV and can seat up to seven passengers, including the driver. The middle row can be customized for all the passengers. Otherwise, it can only seat five.
Acadia has a Climate Control System, which allows even third-row passengers to adjust their temperature settings. Of course, the driver can still control the temperature of the whole car.
There is also the Acadia AT4 and Acadia Denali. Check out this article for more information about the Acadia "How Long Does A GMC Acadia Last?"
GMC Acadia Features
Interested in Acadia? It has features that can make driving safe and comfortable for everyone. There is the GMC Pro Safety Plus which features technologies against driving hazards. Some of the features are:
- Forward collision alert
- Automatic emergency braking
- Lane change alert with side blind zone alert
- Rear Park Assist
- Rear seat reminder
All GMC vehicles come with a remote start feature. And you can enjoy it with the Acadia. If you want to make sure that your vehicle has this feature, look at the circle with an arrow on the key fob. If this mark is present, then you can start from a remote position.
A Guide on Using the Remote Start
The remote start feature in Acadia comes in handy in some circumstances, like when you need to cool or heat your vehicle even before you get in. Think of how comfortable it would be when the temperature inside the car is set to your liking while you are outside.
Follow these steps to use the remote start:
- Look for the LOCK button on the key fob and press it.
- Press the REMOTE START button for at least four seconds. It is represented by the semi-circle symbol with an arrow.
- Wait for the turn signal to flash and for the engine to start
- Once the engine starts, it will run for 15 minutes. The vehicle will shut down automatically unless you start driving.
Before you start the engine, make sure that it is parked in a secure and well-ventilated area. Current users say that it is not a good idea to start the car if there is unclean air. Otherwise, it might lead to carbonmonoxide poisoning.
The car will remain secure even if you start it remotely. After all, you still need to insert the key in the ignition to drive the Acadia.
Can You Extend the Remote Start Function?
The remote start feature can be extended for another set or a total of 30 minutes. If you used up the 15 minutes for the first time, you have another 15 minutes left. Should you need to remote start again, you need to start the car in a normal manner.
What Can You Do with the Remote Start Feature?
The remote start function is very handy, which is to adjust the car's temperature to your liking. For the Acadia, the temperature will follow the previous setting of the remote start. You can also start the heated or ventilated seats if your car features them. You can also activate the steering wheel heat.
The steering column will also remain locked when you activate remote start. To unlock, you can press the brake pedal and start to drive the Acadia.
According to car dealers, some communities limit the use of remote transmitters. Check the regulations in your community if this feature is going to be an issue.
How Much Does it Cost to Add Remote Start to the Acadia?
In case your vehicle does not have the remote start feature, you can purchase the accessory from your GMC dealer. The advantage of getting a remote start kit is being able to cool or heat your car before you get to it. At the same time, you can warm up the car engine. Most importantly, you can integrate the anti-theft system with this kit.
The current price is about $295. You will pay a separate fee for the installation and programming of the kit. You can also buy the kit from a car accessories dealer. Do not attempt to install the kit by yourself because you will be dealing with voltage.
Click here to see remote start kit on Amazon.
Is There an App to Use Remote Start?
All GMC vehicles, including Acadia, can use the myGMC Mobile app. This is an easy-to-use app that lets you use your smartphone to access your car. Through the app, you can remote start the car as well as lock and unlock it.
Download the application on App Store or Google Play Store. You need to create an account using the email account from the dealer. This same app also works for other GMC vehicles you may have.
Troubleshooting the Remote Start Function
As with most technologies, you may encounter difficulties from time to time. The common problem, according to users, is when the remote start does not function.
Here are possible solutions that you can try:
- Replace the battery in the key fob. Use a CR2032 lithium cell battery, like the ones used in watches
- Follow the proper remote start procedure
- The car should be in "Park" mode
- Remove the car key from the ignition
- Latch the car hood
- Switch off the hazard lights
- Keep the coolant and oil pressure at a normal level
- See if there is a "CHECK EMERGENCY LIGHT" notification because it will prevent the remote start from functioning properly
- Check if the car battery needs replacement
For more car maintenance tips, check out: "What Should The Tire Pressure Be On A GMC Acadia?"
When all else fails, refer to the car manual. There might be additional features that prevent the system from starting. The different car models may have settings that are not available in others.
Is it Possible to Restart the Remote Start Function?
You can changed the remote start function by getting inside the car. Go to the console, then tap on SETTINGS. Next, press on VEHICLE, REMOTE LINK, then LOCK. Finally, tap on START. On the other hand, you may have to restart the kit when you change the car battery.
Is Remote Start Worth the Time and Expense?
You might get disheartened because of issues that may arise from having a remote start system in your car. For instance, you might hear myths saying that the warranty becomes void or the vehicle will be subjected to wear and tear.
There is no truth to these issues. Car experts recommend getting a remote start kit because it will come in handy during summer and winter. You can manage the temperature inside the car beforehand. You can also start the engine, which is also helpful during winter when the car oil is thick.
Besides, you can expect the remote start function for a long time. You will surely get your money's worth.
Let's Start that Car!
The GMC Acadia comes fully loaded with features that make driving more comfortable for everyone. It also comes with safety features so you can have worry-free driving.
Another feature that you can enjoy with Acadia is the remote start function. When you press the key fob, you can start the car's engine. The temperature inside the car is adjusted to your comfort even before you get in. You won't think that it is worth a lot, but you will be thankful when you set foot in the car after being exposed to heat or cold.