How to Auto Start Your Chevy Equinox: A Friendly Guide to Remote Comfort
Let's be honest, few things beat the feeling of stepping into a perfectly pre-warmed or pre-cooled car, especially when the weather outside is doing its absolute worst. Whether it's the dead of winter with icy winds whipping around, or a scorching summer day that makes your steering wheel feel like a branding iron, having your Chevy Equinox ready and waiting at a comfortable temperature is pure bliss. And guess what? If you own a modern Chevy Equinox, that luxury is likely just a few button presses or screen taps away.
We're not talking about some futuristic tech only seen in movies here. Remote start, or auto start as some call it, is a fantastic feature designed to make your life a little bit easier and a whole lot more comfortable. No more shivering while your defroster kicks in, or fanning yourself furiously as the AC struggles to catch up. Your Equinox can be humming along, getting to that sweet spot of comfort before you even open the door.
So, how do you unlock this little slice of automotive heaven? Well, there are a few ways to get your Chevy Equinox to auto start, depending on your vehicle's trim level, model year, and whether you've got some connected services in play. Think of it like having a few different tools in your comfort toolbox. Ready to dive in? Let's get your Equinox ready to roll!
Mastering Your Key Fob for Remote Start
For most Chevy Equinox owners, your key fob is your first and most accessible gateway to remote start. It's the classic method, and thankfully, it's super straightforward once you know the drill. You'll be a pro in no time, trust me.
First things first, take a look at your key fob. You should spot a button with a circular arrow symbol, often intertwined with a lock icon. That's your remote start button! If you don't see it, your Equinox might not have the factory-installed remote start feature, or it might be an older model. But assuming it's there, here's the simple two-step process:
- Lock Your Doors: This is a crucial safety step and often overlooked. Before you can remote start, your Equinox needs to know its doors are securely locked. Just hit the lock button (the one with the padlock symbol) on your key fob. You'll usually hear a chirp and see the lights flash, confirming the lock.
- Press and Hold: Immediately after locking the doors, press and hold the remote start button (the circular arrow) for about three to five seconds. Don't just tap it – you need to hold it down.
What should happen next? Your Equinox's parking lights will flash, and after a brief moment, you'll hear the engine spring to life. Boom! You've done it. The engine will run for about 10 to 15 minutes, depending on your vehicle's programming, before automatically shutting off to conserve fuel. If you need more time, you can repeat the process to extend the run time.
Quick Troubleshooting & Tips for Your Key Fob: * Didn't Work? The most common reasons are not locking the doors first, or not holding the button long enough. Also, remote start won't work if your hood is open, your "check engine" light is on, your fuel is very low, or if you've tried to start it too many times consecutively without driving it. Your car is smart like that! * Range: Keep in mind that your key fob has a limited range. You'll need to be within a reasonable distance of your Equinox, usually within a hundred feet or so, for it to receive the signal. * Getting In: Once you're ready to hop in, just unlock your doors with your key fob as you normally would. When you get inside, you'll need to press the brake pedal and then the start/stop button to take control of the vehicle and drive off. Don't worry, it won't shut off when you open the door – that's a common misconception!
Leveraging OnStar for Seamless Remote Start
Moving beyond the key fob, many Chevy Equinox models come equipped with OnStar capabilities. While OnStar is known for its emergency services and navigation, it also offers a fantastic way to remote start your vehicle, often with a much greater range.
Now, most people won't be calling OnStar directly just to start their car (though you could technically press the blue OnStar button in your vehicle and ask an advisor to do it for you – but that's a bit old-school for just a remote start!). The real magic of OnStar for remote start comes through its integration with the MyChevrolet mobile app, which we'll cover in detail next.
Think of OnStar as the backbone, the underlying technology that allows for more advanced remote features. If you have an active OnStar plan that includes connected services, your car is essentially "online," allowing you to communicate with it remotely from almost anywhere. This opens up a world of convenience that goes beyond what a simple radio signal from your key fob can offer. It means you could be in a different city, or even a different country, and still start your car as long as you have an internet connection on your phone. Pretty neat, right?
Your Smartphone's Superpower: The MyChevrolet App
This is where things get truly modern and incredibly convenient. If you've got a smartphone, and an active OnStar connected services plan, the MyChevrolet app is your new best friend for remote starting your Equinox. It's like having a super-powered key fob with unlimited range right in your pocket.
Here's what you'll need to get started: 1. An Active OnStar Connected Services Plan: This is crucial. The MyChevrolet app relies on your car's OnStar subscription to communicate remotely. If your plan has expired or doesn't include remote access services, this feature won't work. 2. The MyChevrolet App: Download it from your phone's app store (Apple App Store for iPhones, Google Play Store for Android). 3. Your GM Account: You'll need to log in to the app with the same GM account associated with your Equinox and OnStar plan. If you haven't set one up, you'll need to do that first.
Once you're all set up, using the app is a breeze:
- Open the MyChevrolet App: Launch the app on your smartphone.
- Select Your Vehicle: If you have multiple GM vehicles linked, make sure your Equinox is selected.
- Locate the Remote Start Button: On the app's main screen, you'll usually see a prominent remote start button. It might look like a play icon, or simply say "Remote Start." Tap it!
- Confirm: The app will send the command to your Equinox. You'll typically get a notification within the app confirming that the command was sent and then another once the vehicle has successfully started. Just like with the key fob, your car's parking lights might flash, and you'll hear the engine start.
Why the MyChevrolet App is a Game-Changer: * Unlimited Range: As long as both your phone and your Equinox have a cellular signal, you can start your car from virtually anywhere. Imagine leaving work on a freezing day and starting your car from your desk, knowing it'll be toasty warm by the time you reach the parking lot. Or, heading out of a grocery store with a cart full of cold items and being able to start the AC before you even get near your car. * Scheduling: Some versions of the app even allow you to schedule remote starts, so your Equinox is ready at the same time every workday morning. Talk about convenience! * Vehicle Status: Beyond just starting your car, the app often lets you check fuel levels, tire pressure, oil life, and even pinpoint your car's location – handy if you forget where you parked in a huge lot. * Lock/Unlock: You can also lock and unlock your doors remotely, which is super helpful if you ever doubt whether you remembered to lock up after walking away.
Just like with the key fob, if it doesn't work, double-check your internet connection, ensure your OnStar plan is active and includes remote access, and make sure the app is updated to its latest version.
Essential Tips and Safety Reminders
While remote start is undeniably convenient, it's essential to use it responsibly and safely. Here are a few important points to keep in mind:
- Never Remote Start in Enclosed Spaces: This is a big one. Never, ever use remote start in a garage or any other enclosed area where carbon monoxide fumes can build up. Always ensure your Equinox is parked outdoors or in a very well-ventilated space. Carbon monoxide is odorless and deadly!
- Idling Laws: Be aware of local idling laws. Some municipalities have regulations on how long a vehicle can idle, even if it's just warming up or cooling down.
- Engine Run Time: As mentioned, your Equinox will run for a preset amount of time (usually 10-15 minutes) before shutting off. This is a safety and fuel-saving feature. If you need more time, simply repeat the remote start process.
- Vehicle Security: When your Equinox is remote started, it remains locked. Only your key fob or the MyChevrolet app can unlock it. This means your car is still secure, even with the engine running.
- Battery and Fuel: While remote starting doesn't drain your battery excessively, frequent, very short remote starts without actual driving might have a minor impact over a very long time. And, of course, it uses fuel, so keep an eye on your tank!
Your Comfort Awaits!
There you have it! Whether you prefer the simplicity of your key fob or the advanced connectivity of the MyChevrolet app, auto-starting your Chevy Equinox is a fantastic feature that adds a significant layer of comfort and convenience to your daily drives. No more battling extreme temperatures inside your car before you even leave your driveway or office.
So go ahead, give it a try. Get familiar with the method that works best for you, and start enjoying that perfectly comfortable ride before you even step foot in your Equinox. Your future self on a chilly morning or a sweltering afternoon will thank you! Happy driving!