How To Remote Start A Kia Telluride

Having a car that can remote start is a convenient feature that can be confusing for someone who hasn't used it before. Whether you're looking to purchase a Telluride or you already own one, knowing how its features work is important. We've found the most relevant information online so we can tell you how to start your vehicle.

There are two methods to start a 2021 Kia Telluride. One method is by using the remote start key fob. The second method is to start your car via the Kia Access application on your smartphone. 

Now that you know the basics, we'll get into more detail. Keep reading to learn how to remote start your car with your phone, how much remote start costs, and if this feature is worth it.

An up close image of a Kia logo on the rim of a car, How To Remote Start A Kia Telluride

Remote Starting Background

Remote starting for vehicles has been an optional feature since 1985.  A remote starter is a radio-controlled device that allows a vehicle to be started even when the owner is a short distance away. This has frequently been an after-market addition, which means that it usually isn't made by the automobile manufacturer.

There are now some vehicles that come stock with a factory remote start. These cars will come with a remote starter key fob or an additional button on their main key fob and will generally have instructions on how to use the remote start in the car manual.

How to Use Remote Start

The 2021 Kia Telluride is one of three Kia vehicles that come stock with a remote start. So, on top of the standard key fob, you will also have a special remote start key. This key has a 500-foot range, once you're within this range, you'll push the button, and your car will start.

Setting Up UVO Link Application

When purchasing a new 2021 Kia Telluride, you receive one year free of their UVO Link Ultimate package. This package includes many things, one of them being the ability to remote start and stop your vehicle.

In order to utilize this great feature, you'll have to set it up first. Before setting up UVO, make sure you have the Kia Access application installed and your car key turned to accessory mode. You'll need access to the vehicle's touchscreen. Once you've done that, you can begin setting up.

  1. Select 'Setup' from the vehicle's touchscreen.
  2. Click the UVO Icon.
  3. Press 'Activate UVO' button.

From there, you will have to read and accept the terms of services. Once that's done, enter a working phone number or email address and follow the instructions on setting up a Kia Owner's Portal. This will give you a verification code that you'll enter into your touchscreen.

With all that completed, you can now remote start, control the temperature, and locate your phone all from the application on your phone. Remember, these and other great features are only complimentary for the first year. After that, you will have to pay a monthly fee to access them.

Does 2020 Kia Telluride have remote start?

The 2020 Kia Telluride and all later models come standard with remote start. The 2020 Kia Sorento and 2020 Kia K900 also have a stock remote start. Most Kia vehicles are capable of adding in a remote start feature via the UVO app or after-market installation.

Can I start my Kia with my phone?

Kia's Telluride and certain other models with UVO Link capabilities can be started with remote access via a phone application. This is not a free service and does come with a monthly service fee.

How much does Kia remote start cost?

When looking for a remote starter key, set your price range anywhere from $100 (without installation) to $1,000 (including installation). Prices will vary by location and by make and model of car.

Kia vehicles have the additional benefit of starting your car via a phone application. This feature is a monthly fee that must be paid, even for cars that come stock with a remote start like the Telluride.

Remote start via the phone application is done through the UVO Link program. This subscription has four levels to select from. The basic version is called the Lite Program. It includes trip information, 911 connect, and remote charging. This is free for five years. After the fifth year, it expires and is no longer able to be used.

The second level, called the Care Package, is $5.99 per month and includes a vehicle alarm alert as well as the Lite Package features. The third level and first to include remote start is the Plus Package. It costs $14.99 per month or $149 annually and also includes a find my car feature. The final package is the Ultimate Package. It costs $19.99 monthly or $199 annually. It includes all previous packages capabilities plus a home-to-car (Google/Alexa) feature.

Does Kia have tracking devices?

The Kia Telluride and many other Kia vehicles have a type of tracking device in the car. Any vehicle with UVO capabilities will have a tracking device. This is because UVO Link can log trips that the vehicle makes as well as find its parking location. 

Is remote start worth it?

A common misconception about cars is that they need to be warmed up before being driven, especially during the winter season. This has been true for older model cars. Before vehicles began using fuel injectors, they used carburetors, which needed to be warmed up before use. While this isn't necessary now, remote starting your car does have other benefits. As well as a few downsides.

Advantages

  • Remote starting your vehicle helps it reach a comfortable temperature before you enter it.
  • The remote start feature can increase security for your vehicle. A vehicle will lock its doors when the remote start is activated.
  • You gain resale value with a remote start.
  • During winter months, remote starting your vehicle makes removing ice from windows easier.

Disadvantages

  • Cars that idle for more than 30 minutes are causing unnecessary air pollution as well as wasting fuel.
  • Pre-starting your car can cause some wear and tear on your engine. Keeping on top of vehicle maintenance will be especially important.

The largest advantage to having a remote start is getting your car to a more comfortable temperature before reaching it. Having a remote start can also help you sell your car at a later date. Whether these benefits make a remote start worth it is up to you.

In Closing

Remote starting for cars has been an optional feature for vehicles since the 1980s. Since then the technology has evolved massively. The 2021 Kia Telluride is built with remote start included. It also has the ability to track trips, parking locations, and check your car's status all through a phone app. Whether these bonuses are worth the extra monthly cost will be up to you.

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