If you own a Hyundai Sonata that has a remote start, then you are in for a treat. However, before you can take advantage of this feature, you will need to know how to use it. We have laid out the steps to do so below!
To remote start your Hyundai Sonata, follow these steps:
- First, lock the doors using the Bluelink app or fob [even if the doors are already locked].
- Immediately after, hold down the remote start button.
- The headlights and turn signal lights will flash then the vehicle will start.
- The Hyundai Sonata will run for 10 minutes and then turn off.
- To turn off the vehicle, press the remote start button again.
Having a remote start is a handy feature, no matter the climate. In this article, we will take a closer look at how and when to use the remote start feature in your Hyundai Sonata. In addition, we will answer other frequently asked questions about the Sonata's remote start, so read on!
How To Remote Start A Hyundai Sonata
Most consumers don't know that they need a remote start until they have it. The remote start features will set the cabin climate to your liking, ready when you enter the vehicle.
For example, the cabin will likely be frigid if you leave work on a cold December day. Using your remote start, you can have the climate set to warm before entering the vehicle.
To take advantage of Sonata's remote start feature, let's take a closer look at how to activate it:
Lock the doors
Locking the door is the crucial first step to the remote start process. You can do this via the Bluelink app or by using the key fob. You will need to press the lock button whether the doors are already locked or not.
Hold down the remote start button
Different cars have other methods of activating the remote start feature. For the Sonata, you will need to hold down the remote start button on the key fob or the BlueLink app. Be sure to do this within four seconds of locking the doors.
If you don't, then the feature won't activate. The turn signals and the headlights will flash when the remote start is activated.
Remote start has 10 minutes of run time
The Hyundai Sonata will run for 10 minutes before shutting itself off, avoiding fuel waste. If you want to turn off the vehicle before 10 minutes, press the remote start button once.
Hyundai Sonata remote start not working - What could be wrong?
If you try to use your Hyundai Sonata remote start, but it won't activate, there could be something. Let's take a look at the possible culprits:
Incorrect activation process
One of the most common reasons your remote start doesn't work is activating it incorrectly. Be sure to lock doors first before holding down the remote start button. In addition, you can't wait too long between locking the Sonata and holding down the remote start button.
Kia programmed the Sonata to only give four seconds between locking the Sonata and holding down the remote start. So, ensure that you hold it down immediately after locking the car.
Too many failed attempts
Typically, if you try and fail to remote start the vehicle too many times, the remote start will be deactivated. To reset it, you will need to manually start the Sonata and turn it off before trying again.
Out of range
If the remote start doesn't work, then you may be too far away from your Hyundai Sonata. Most Hyundai's that come with BlueLink have a range of 500 feet [upgrade distance on BlueLink app], so if you are farther than that, the remote start won't transmit.
Check engine light is on
If your check engine light is on, the remote start feature won't work. To activate it, you first need to have a diagnostic test done at a dealer, which will reset the system and allow the remote to work again.
Battery damage
In rare cases where there was significant battery damage, it could cause the signal from your remote to not be transmitted. If this is the case, then you will need to have your battery replaced for it to work again.
However, be sure to check that the battery doesn't need a charge, terminals cleaned, or cables tightened before replacing the battery.
Wire damage
You may have wire damage somewhere in the vehicle. If this is so, then your remote start won't work. Furthermore, other systems will likely fail to function, including security, doors unlocking/locking, horn honking, etc. If the wiring to your remote starter has been damaged, you should consider getting it looked at by a professional.
Dead key fob battery
A common problem is the dead key fob battery. The key fob batteries are inexpensive and can be purchased at a local automotive store. It is a good idea to buy a few of them on hand the next time the battery dies.
Faulty starter
Finally, the starter may have just gone bad. If this is the case, you'll need to contact a repair shop for assistance. The repair shop could find that the solenoid, relay, or motor has failed.
What years of the Hyundai Sonata have remote start?
The remote start feature has been around for some time now, but for some reason, Hyundai didn't include it in the Hyundai Sonata. As a result, consumers could only get the remote start for years if they bought an aftermarket remote start or subscribed to Bluelink until 2020.
Now, consumers who purchase the 2020 Hyundai Sonata will be glad to know that they get a remote start on their key fob. As mentioned earlier, they will also enjoy it on the BlueLink app and other features.
Do all Hyundai Sonata trim levels have a remote start?
The only trim level the Hyundai Sonata doesn't have remote start as a standard feature is the SE. However, consumers can still add an aftermarket remote start if they would like. Depending on the one you choose, the prices can vary from $250-$500.
How do you know if your vehicle e has a remote start?
If you own a 2020 or newer Hyundai Sonata SEL, SEL Plus, N-Line, or Limited, then you will have a remote start. You will know because you will see the remote start button on the bottom of the key fob. In addition, your salesperson should walk you through how the BlueLink app works.
If you have an older model and there is an extra key remote that doesn't lock, unlock, or start the car, it could be an aftermarket remote start. Reach out to the previous owner or car dealer to see if it is a remote start.
In addition, you can try using the instructions above to see if it remotely starts the Sonata. However, aftermarket remote starts can have different function sequences, so they may not work the same.
How do you start your Hyundai Sonata without your key fob?
If your key fob battery died, don't panic because there is still a way to start the Sonata. To do so, you will need to put the key fob into a slot located in the middle console. Once the key fob is in the slot, you can put your foot on the brake and press the start button.
Another option is to put your foot on the brake and press the start button using the key fob. If the key fob battery isn't completely dead, this method should work.
It is a good idea to get the battery replaced as soon as you can. If you don't, the keyless entry and remote start won't work.
Which Hyundais have remote start?
If you are interested in a Hyundai vehicle with remote start as a standard feature, you are in luck. As of 2021, the Hyundai Sonata wasn't the only model that had the feature added. In addition, consumers can get the remote start via the BlueLink app on the new models:
- 2021 Hyundai Calligraphy
- 2021 Hyundai Turbo
- 2021 Hyundai N Line
In addition, you can get the remote start via the BlueLink app on older Hyundai models. However, if you aren't purchasing a 2021 or newer, you won't get the three-year free membership.
Final Thoughts
The Bluelink app is a great standard feature that Hyundai has added to Sonata and other models. However, the downfall is that once the free trial ends, you have to pay for it. Nonetheless, the app does have other useful features that may make it justifiable.
For more articles like this one, check out our website:
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