Will Remote Start Work with the Check Engine Light On?

Can a Check Engine Light Disable Remote Start?

Yes, in most vehicles, the remote start will not work if the check engine light (CEL) is on. This is a safety feature to prevent potential engine damage or emissions issues from worsening.

Why Remote Start Won’t Work with a Check Engine Light

How to Get Remote Start Working Again

1. Check for Trouble Codes – Use an OBD-II scanner to read and diagnose CEL codes.
2. Fix the Underlying Issue – If the problem is minor (like a loose gas cap), fixing it may allow remote start to work again.
3. Reset the Check Engine Light – If the CEL is cleared and the issue is resolved, remote start may function normally.
4. Try a Manual Start First – Sometimes, starting the car with the key resets the remote start system.

When Remote Start Might Still Work with a CEL

✅ If the CEL is for a non-critical issue – Some vehicles allow remote start for minor codes.
✅ If your car has an aftermarket remote start system – Some third-party remote starters may override factory settings.

Final Thoughts

In most cases, remote start won’t work if the check engine light is on, as the system is designed to prevent engine damage. To restore remote start functionality, diagnose and fix the issue triggering the CEL.

FAQs

1. Can I bypass the check engine light to use remote start?

No, factory systems prevent this for safety reasons. Aftermarket remotes may allow it, but it’s not recommended.

2. Will resetting the CEL make remote start work again?

Only if the underlying issue is fixed—otherwise, the light will return, and remote start will stay disabled.

3. Does a loose gas cap prevent remote start?

Yes, a loose or faulty gas cap can trigger an emissions code (P0455) that disables remote start.

4. Will remote start work if the CEL is intermittent?

Possibly, but once the CEL is detected, remote start will usually be blocked until the issue is resolved.

5. What if my remote start still doesn’t work after fixing the CEL?

Try disconnecting the battery for 10 minutes to reset the system or check for additional stored codes.

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