To use the car starter on a Chevy Equinox, first ensure all doors are closed and locked using the lock button on your key fob. Then, press and hold the remote start button (the circular arrow symbol) for about three to four seconds. The vehicle’s parking lights will flash to confirm it has started successfully.
There’s nothing quite like getting into a perfectly warm car on a freezing winter morning or a cool, comfortable cabin on a scorching summer day. That little button on your Chevy Equinox key fob is your ticket to that comfort. But if you’re new to the feature, it can feel a bit mysterious. You press it, and maybe nothing happens, leaving you wondering if it’s broken or if you’re doing something wrong.
Don’t worry, you’re not alone! Many drivers are unsure how to use their remote starter correctly. The good news is that it’s incredibly simple once you know the steps. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from the basic startup sequence to troubleshooting common issues. Let’s get you starting your Equinox like a pro.
What Is a Remote Car Starter and Why Is It So Great?
A remote car starter is a feature that lets you start your vehicle’s engine from a distance using your key fob. It’s not just a fancy gadget; it’s a practical tool that offers some fantastic benefits. Think of it as your personal climate control assistant.
The Top Benefits of Using Your Remote Starter
- Year-Round Comfort: This is the biggest win. In the winter, it allows the engine to warm up, defrost the windows, and get the cabin heater going. In the summer, it gets the air conditioning running, so you can step into a cool, refreshing vehicle instead of a stuffy oven.
- Engine Health: Letting your engine warm up for a minute or two before you drive is beneficial, especially in cold weather. It allows the engine oil to circulate properly, reducing wear and tear on critical components. The remote starter does this for you while you finish your coffee.
- Convenience and Safety: Defrosting windows before you even get to the car means better visibility from the moment you pull out of your driveway. No more scraping ice in a hurry or driving with a tiny peephole in the frost.
- Time-Saver: It saves you those precious few minutes in the morning. While the car is warming up or cooling down, you can be gathering your things and getting ready to go.
First Things First: Does Your Equinox Have Remote Start?
Before we dive into the steps, let’s make sure your Chevy Equinox is equipped with a factory remote start system. Not all models or trim levels come with it standard. Here are two easy ways to check.
1. Look at Your Key Fob
This is the simplest method. Take a look at the buttons on your key fob. If you see a button with a circular arrow icon (it looks like an arrow chasing its tail), then you have remote start! This is the button you’ll use to activate the feature.
2. Check Your Vehicle’s RPO Codes
If you’re unsure or bought the car used, you can check the vehicle’s original equipment list using the RPO (Regular Production Option) codes. You can find these codes on a silver sticker, usually located inside the glove box.
- Open your glove box.
- Look for a sticker with a grid of three-character codes.
- Scan the list for the code BTV.
If you see “BTV” on that list, your Equinox was built with the factory remote start system. It’s a definitive way to know for sure.
The Proven Steps: How to Use Your Chevy Equinox Remote Starter
Using the remote start is a simple two-step process. The system has built-in safety checks, which is why a specific sequence is required. Follow these steps exactly, and it will work every time.
Step 1: Ensure You Are Within Range
Factory remote starters typically have a range of up to 200 feet (about 60 meters). Make sure you are within this distance. Obstacles like thick walls, buildings, or other vehicles can reduce the effective range, so you may need to be closer if you’re inside a building.
Step 2: Lock Your Vehicle
This is the most important step and the one people often forget. The remote start system will not engage unless the vehicle is secure. Press the Lock button (the one with the padlock symbol) on your key fob. You should hear the doors lock and see the parking lights flash once to confirm.
Step 3: Press and Hold the Remote Start Button
Now, immediately press and hold the Remote Start button (the circular arrow). You need to hold it for about three to four seconds. Don’t just tap it; a quick press won’t work. This is a safety feature to prevent accidental starts.
Step 4: Look for Confirmation
If the sequence was successful, you’ll see the parking lights flash and stay on. You may also hear the engine start. This is your signal that the car is running and your climate control system is working its magic.
What to Do After the Car Has Started
Once your Equinox is running, the doors will remain locked for security. To get in, simply press the Unlock button on your key fob or use the button on the door handle if you have a passive entry system.
Here’s the final sequence to actually drive away:
- Get into the vehicle. The engine will be running, but the dashboard and infotainment system will be off.
- Insert the key into the ignition (if you have a traditional key) or press the Push-to-Start button with your foot on the brake (if you have a keyless ignition).
- This action “proves” you have the key and fully activates all vehicle systems. The dashboard will light up, and you can now shift into gear and drive away.
If you don’t complete this final step within a few minutes of entering the car, the engine may shut off automatically as a safety measure.
Understanding Your Remote Start System’s Features
Your Equinox’s remote start system is smarter than you might think. It includes several features designed for safety, security, and convenience.
Automatic Climate Control
How does the car know whether to turn on the heat or the A/C? The system is designed to automatically adjust the cabin temperature based on the outside air temperature.
- On Cold Days: It will automatically activate the heater, front and rear defrosters, and even the heated seats and steering wheel if your Equinox is equipped with them and the feature is enabled in your settings.
- On Hot Days: It will turn on the air conditioning and activate the ventilated seats, if equipped and enabled.
The system typically uses the last settings you had on when you turned the car off, but the automatic function prioritizes getting the cabin to a comfortable temperature.
Automatic Shut-Off Timer
Your Equinox won’t run forever after a remote start. For safety and fuel conservation, the engine will automatically shut off after 10 minutes. This prevents the vehicle from running unattended for too long.
How to Extend the Run Time
Need more than 10 minutes to get ready? You can extend the run time for another 10 minutes. Here’s how:
- After the first remote start, repeat the process.
- Press the Lock button again.
- Press and hold the Remote Start button again for about four seconds.
This will reset the timer for another 10-minute cycle, for a total of 20 minutes of run time. Most systems only allow for one extension.
How to Turn Off the Engine Remotely
If you started the car but your plans changed, you don’t have to go outside to turn it off. Simply press and hold the Remote Start button again for a few seconds. The engine will shut down.
Troubleshooting: Why Isn’t My Remote Start Working?
It can be frustrating when you press the button and nothing happens. Don’t call the mechanic just yet! Most of the time, the issue is caused by one of the system’s built-in safety checks. Here’s a handy table to help you diagnose the problem.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Simple Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Nothing happens at all, no lights flash. | Key fob battery is dead or low. | Replace the battery in your key fob. Most Chevy fobs use a CR2032 coin battery, which is easy to find and replace. |
| The horn honks once, but the car doesn’t start. | The system has been disabled. | The remote start feature might be turned off in the vehicle’s settings menu on the infotainment screen. Go to Settings > Vehicle > Remote Lock, Unlock, Start to re-enable it. |
| Parking lights flash, but the engine doesn’t start. | The “Check Engine” light is on. | The system will not start if there is an active engine fault. You’ll need to have the vehicle diagnosed to find out why the light is on. The EPA notes this light indicates a potential emissions or engine problem. |
| Nothing happens, or the car tries to start and immediately shuts off. | The vehicle’s hood is not fully closed. | This is a critical safety feature. Open the hood and close it firmly to ensure the latch sensor is engaged. |
| The remote start fails. | The vehicle is low on fuel. | The system may not work if the low fuel light is on. The car needs a certain level of fuel to ensure it won’t run out while idling. Add some gas and try again. |
| The remote start fails. | The car’s battery is low. | If the vehicle’s main battery doesn’t have enough charge, it won’t have the power to turn the engine over. You may need to jump-start the car or replace the battery. |
| The remote start fails. | You’re not following the correct sequence. | Remember the sequence: Lock first, then press and hold Start. Trying to start it without locking it is the most common mistake. |
Factory vs. Aftermarket Remote Starters
If your Equinox didn’t come with a remote starter, you might be considering adding one. You have two main choices: a genuine Chevrolet accessory installed by a dealer or an aftermarket system from a third-party brand. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide.
| Feature | Factory (OEM) System | Aftermarket System |
|---|---|---|
| Integration | Seamlessly integrated with your vehicle’s electronics and key fob. | May require a separate fob or a more complex installation process. |
| Warranty | Covered under your vehicle’s warranty if installed by a dealer. | May void parts of your vehicle’s electrical warranty if not installed correctly. |
| Range | Typically around 200 feet. | Can offer much longer ranges, sometimes up to a mile, with advanced models. |
| Features | Basic start, stop, and climate control functions. | Can include advanced features like smartphone apps, vehicle tracking, and security alerts. |
| Cost | Generally more expensive. | Often more affordable, with a wider range of price points. |
For most drivers, a factory-installed system is the most reliable and worry-free option. It’s designed specifically for your Equinox and won’t cause any warranty headaches. However, if you need extra-long range or advanced smartphone control, a professionally installed aftermarket system can be a great choice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Does using the remote starter use a lot of gas?
No, it uses very little. Idling for 10 minutes consumes a small amount of fuel, typically less than a quarter of a gallon. The comfort and engine health benefits usually outweigh the minor fuel cost. Think of it as using the same amount of gas as driving a few blocks.
2. Is it safe to use a remote starter in a garage?
Never use a remote starter in an enclosed space like a closed garage. An idling engine produces carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly. Only use your remote starter when the vehicle is parked outdoors in a well-ventilated area.
3. Can someone steal my car while it’s running from a remote start?
No, your car is secure. The doors remain locked, and the steering wheel and shifter are disabled. To drive the car, a person must have the key fob to press the ignition button or insert the key. If someone breaks in without the key, the engine will shut off as soon as they touch the brake pedal.
4. How do I change the battery in my Chevy Equinox key fob?
Most Equinox fobs can be opened with a small flathead screwdriver or by hand. Pry the two halves of the fob apart, and you will see a small, round battery inside (usually a CR2032). Pop the old one out, put the new one in (making sure the positive side is facing the right way), and snap the fob back together.
5. Can I use my smartphone to start my Equinox?
Yes, if you have a subscription to GM’s OnStar services. The myChevrolet mobile app allows you to lock, unlock, and remotely start your vehicle from anywhere you have a cell signal. This is a premium feature that offers unlimited range and is available on most newer Equinox models.
6. Why does my car shut off when I open the door?
On some older models or with certain aftermarket systems, the engine is designed to shut off when a door is opened as a security measure. This is normal for those systems. You simply have to get in and restart the car normally. Newer factory systems allow you to enter the vehicle while it’s running and take over by pressing the ignition button.
Conclusion: Enjoy the Comfort and Convenience
Your Chevy Equinox’s remote starter is a fantastic feature designed to make your life easier and more comfortable. By following the simple “lock, then press-and-hold” sequence, you can master it in no time. Remember that the safety features, like the automatic shut-off and the hood latch sensor, are there to protect you and your vehicle.
Now you have all the knowledge you need to use your remote starter with confidence, troubleshoot common issues, and understand how it all works. So go ahead, enjoy that perfectly heated or cooled cabin on your next drive. It’s one of the small luxuries that can make a big difference in your day.