Yes, you can start your car with Uconnect if your vehicle is equipped with the Remote Start feature and the necessary connected services. This functionality is accessed through the Uconnect Access app on your smartphone or, on some models, via the key fob. It’s designed for convenience, allowing you to warm up the engine and cabin or cool it down before you get in.
For this to work, several conditions must be met. First, your vehicle must be a compatible model, typically from Stellantis brands like Jeep, Ram, Dodge, or Chrysler, from around the 2018 model year onward with the required hardware. Second, you must have an active Uconnect Access subscription. This is a telematics service that uses a built-in cellular connection to communicate with your vehicle. A standard trial period is often included with a new vehicle purchase, after which a paid subscription is required. Finally, the vehicle must be in park with the doors locked and the hood fully closed for safety.
The primary method is via the Uconnect app. After logging in, the remote start button will send a signal to the vehicle over the cellular network. You’ll get a confirmation on your phone once the car has started. Some key fobs also have a remote start button, usually requiring you to press the lock button first, followed by the remote start button twice. The engine will typically run for 15 minutes before automatically shutting off unless you extend the runtime via the app or enter the vehicle with the key fob and press the ignition button.
| Key Factor | Requirement / Limitation |
|---|
| Vehicle Compatibility | 2018+ Jeep, Ram, Dodge, Chrysler models with 8.4-inch screen or larger |
| Service Plan | Active Uconnect Access subscription (SiriusXM Guardian) |
| Operating Range | Virtually unlimited via smartphone app; key fob range is typically 300-500 feet |
| Engine Runtime | 15 minutes per start (can often be extended through the app) |
| Safety Preconditions | Vehicle must be in Park, doors locked, hood closed |
| Common Issue | Service subscription lapse is the most frequent reason for failure |
