
When using the remote key to start the engine remotely, ensure that the vehicle is locked and the gear is in the P (Park) position. First, press the lock button to relock the vehicle from the automatic recognition unlock state. Then, directly press and hold the engine remote start button for 3 seconds. When the turn signals flash continuously for 6 seconds, it indicates that the vehicle has started successfully. The air conditioning will automatically adjust based on the external and internal temperatures.

















I used to remotely start my Trumpchi M8 exclusively through the mobile app. You need to download the 'GAC Intelligent' application first and log in with the number registered at purchase. On the vehicle control page, there's a prominent remote start icon—just tap it and set the desired activation time. One winter morning, I activated it ten minutes before heading downstairs, and by the time I got in, the cabin was already blowing warm air with a toasty steering wheel. Note that both Bluetooth and mobile data must be enabled for successful connection—it may fail in underground parking with weak signals. Upon remote start, the hazard lights flash several times as confirmation, which is a thoughtful touch. After entering the vehicle, you must press the brake pedal and push the ignition button to fully start the engine; otherwise, it automatically shuts off after thirty minutes.

The remote start function of the Trumpchi M8 primarily relies on the key or the APP. With the key, first press the lock button, then hold the remote start button for about five seconds until the lights flash, indicating success. For the APP, ensure the vehicle's service is activated, and the operation is more straightforward in the air conditioning control section. One summer, when the temperature hit 40 degrees, I started the car remotely from a convenience store to turn on the air conditioning in advance, so the seats weren't scorching when I got in. However, be mindful not to overfill the fuel tank, as the exhaust system may activate a self-protection lock function. It's recommended to keep the distance within 50 meters, as concrete walls can interfere with the signal. If the remote start is successful, the rearview mirrors will automatically unfold, which is even more noticeable than the fuel gauge light.

Operating the M8's remote start is quite simple: Open the Smart GAC app on your phone, set the desired temperature in the air conditioning settings interface, then tap the remote start button to confirm. I always start the car five minutes before picking up my kids from school, so the temperature is just right when we get in. Remember, the car key must be within the sensing range for the engine to ignite. The app also displays a countdown to startup, which is really handy. After starting, the front fan will rotate – don't be startled by the humming sound. However, I rarely use it on rainy days to avoid water entering the exhaust pipe. Also, keep an eye on the dashboard prompts; if a small wrench icon appears, it's time to get the system checked.

Remote starting the Trumpchi M8 involves three steps: first, ensure the network connection is stable, then select the duration on the vehicle control page of the Trumpchi APP. I usually set it for fifteen minutes, which is enough to warm up the engine and turn on the AC. Last time before camping, I started it early to defog, and the frost on the windows melted. Pay attention to the engine fault light status during operation—if it stays on, the remote function will be disabled. For key fob remote start, press and hold the circular arrow button until the turn signals flash three times. This feature is especially useful for owners in northern regions, eliminating the need to scrape frost in winter. However, it won’t start if the battery level is below half.

There are several ways to use the mobile app to start the Trumpchi M8: regular startup is suitable for temporary use, while scheduled startup allows setting a fixed time. I've set it to automatically start at 7:30 AM, saving me the hassle of manual operation every day. The most frequently used feature in the operation interface is the air conditioning temperature slider—setting it to 22°C makes it just right when getting in the car. Once, after starting, I noticed the doors automatically unlocked, and calling the 4S store revealed I had accidentally pressed the control button. It's advisable to check the door status after startup. The startup function is disabled when the fuel warning light is on, which is a reasonable design. Over time, I've noticed that remote starting consumes significantly more fuel on rainy days compared to sunny days, possibly due to the efficiency of the temperature control system.


