How to Remotely Start a Volvo?
4 Answers
Volvo's remote start method is: the owner needs to press and hold the start button on the remote control, then press the unlock button to unlock the vehicle. After the car's security system is activated, the computer will automatically determine whether to start the engine. If the turn signals flash, it indicates that the remote start has been successfully activated. Remote start refers to starting the engine or an electric vehicle remotely using the remote key. Taking the Volvo S90 as an example, this car is a mid-to-large-sized sedan with a body structure of 4 doors and 5 seats. Its dimensions are 5090mm in length, 1879mm in width, and 1450mm in height, with a wheelbase of 3061mm. In terms of suspension, the Volvo S90 adopts a double-wishbone independent front suspension and a multi-link independent rear suspension.
As a seasoned Volvo driver, I'm very familiar with the remote start feature. You need to install the Volvo On Call app on your phone and log in to bind your vehicle. About ten minutes before leaving in the morning, open the app and press the engine start button, and the car will automatically warm up with the AC adjusted to a comfortable temperature. A little tip is that the doors remain locked after starting, and the anti-theft system works as usual, making it very secure. Just remember the car must be parked in an open area - it won't work in underground garages as the signal gets disconnected. This feature is a lifesaver when temperatures drop below -10°C in winter; getting into the car feels like entering a heated room. I mostly use the app now and rarely touch the start button on the key fob. The whole setup process is quite simple with guided steps in the app, almost like playing a mobile game.
Our team has tested remote start systems on numerous vehicle models, and Volvo's implementation stands out for its user-friendly design. The key is subscribing to the Volvo On Call service, which comes free for the first three years with new vehicles. When connecting, ensure the car is parked in an area with strong 4G signal – the mobile app will display remaining fuel level and a startup countdown. Here's a little-known detail: The engine automatically shuts off after 15 minutes of idling if no doors are opened, preventing fuel waste. I've seen people trying to save time by activating remote start while taking the elevator, only to fail due to poor signal reception – we recommend initiating the process two minutes in advance for reliable operation. The system also incorporates a foolproof feature: it verifies the transmission is in Park position before engine start, eliminating any rollaway risks.
The Volvo app's remote start feature is actually quite thoughtful. It checks the remaining fuel level before starting, and if it's below a certain threshold, it will prompt that the start is unavailable to prevent running out of fuel. What I appreciate most is its ability to preset the temperature—cooling the car down to 23 degrees in summer in advance, with seat ventilation activating simultaneously. However, this system relies on cloud servers. Once during a heavy snowstorm in Scandinavia, the servers went down, leaving my start button grayed out. I've learned my lesson now—updating the app version before the temperature drops to -20 degrees in winter. Older car owners should note that models before 2018 might require a visit to the dealership to upgrade the onboard module. For new purchases, make sure to check the configuration list to see if the remote start package is included.
