This just might convince me to not buy a new Toyota. I just don't want my car talking to the manufacturer or dealer without my knowing. And, it they are then going to hold a feature that I already paid for hostage unless I consent to them invading my privacy, well that is a bridge too far. Recently, Mercedes gave up on requiring customers to pay a monthly subscription to get the heated seats (already installed in the car) to work. Customer push back forced them to drop it. Maybe if there is enough resistance Toyota will do the same.
Settle down buttercup, no one is invading anything except your hurt feelings. You're not as important as you think for toyota or anyone else to want to waste their time tracking you.
Steve, it's very upsetting to learn after you buy a vehicle that convenience options stop working. You test drive the vehicle and check out the options, buy the vehicle than a year or two later they stop working. I own 2- 2022 Toyota's and feel cheated out of the features that worked but now don't. We should place a class action lawsuit on Toyota for this shady flim flam scam.
2025 Camry Hybrid XSE - the key fob lockX3-hold method works, AND the engine stays running when I open the door. I do have an active Remote Connect Subscription in the Trial period. Thank you for this info. I had no idea the key fob could do this, it's my first Toyota.
Straight up holding components of the vehicle, that were purchaed, for ransom. Absolutely disgusting and this just solidified that I will NOT be buying the Tundra that I was planning on. This $8/year and data theft just lost them sales from me permanently. Thank you for clarifying what a bunch of greedy shysters they are. Now to research which truck to go with because I'm sure the rest are no better.
Thank you so much for explaining this! Just bought a 24 4runner trd pro and immediately disabled all of the Spyware, including one that was installed by the dealer. I was wondering why my key fob no longer works. I can live without it, but kind of irritating that they force their services on on people who just want their privacy. Thanks again for explaining this, now I can stop trying.
Good very clear explanation, thanks. Remote start doesn't appeal a huge amount to me, it's definitely something I'd be willing to forego in order to prevent Toyota sharing my data with insurance companies who are going to mark me down on every braking and lane change they can conveniently categorise as over zealous or dangerous. I don't have accidents. But I also drive assertively. All insurance companies need to know to assess my risk is my accident and traffic history. As long as the keyfob works for remote unlocking I'm fine with not having remote starting. Beyond that though, I do think it's ransomware on Toyota's part. "Give us your data which we can sell, pay us for the privilege" (might be a ten year free trial, but it affects resale value and will have a cost if you own the car beyond 10 years).
On my 68 THOUSAND DOLLAR 2024 Toyota Tundra Limited, I was told 80 a year after the first year, to keep remote connect activated. I wasn't happy about it, but said ok I will deal with that. Now a year later, after the trial is up, they are telling me it's 180 a year because they bundled two services together and you can't get Remote Connect separate. What BS. I can promise Toyota this, I will never buy or lease another Toyota again. I honestly can't believe people are paying this and a lawsuit hasn't formed against Toyota.
Hi Steve, used my key fob a remotely started my ‘24 Highlander hybrid. Also, remember I had asked about the low range experienced on my info screen when we first purchased our car. Since then, we have taken several long trips resulting in many fill ups. Initially, we only got a 420 mile range read out, but after the many trips we now get 525 mile range. We purchased the car Nov. 29, 2024. So, the range has gradually increased each fill up. Thought you’d like to know.
Unfortunately my 2024 Rav 4 works with the Keyfob and yes it shuts off when u unlock making it in my mind Completely Useless!! Our CRV has one that works for us normal people. TY Honda. Thanks for your info!!!
I’m new to this feature, but I would guess it would prevent someone in a parking lot beating you to the car, hopping in, and leaving with your vehicle.
My keyfob start was working on my 2021 Tacoma TRD sport but now it wont. Any idea what would be causing it not to work all of a sudden. It should definitely still be covered under the Service Connect subscription, right??
i’m having the same problem with my 21 venza. it worked like 2 months ago when i tested it, now that it’s getting cold and i wanna use it of course it’s not working lmao
My 2024 RAV4 Hybrid XSE is on order, and I asked our salesperson at Michael's Toyota in Bellevue, WA that we have been working with, about remote start (prior to seeing your video) and this is the answer I got, "As far as the Remote Start you can only do it on the App through the Toyota Connected Services which for you get free subscription, and on that you can use it for free for a year, you can add the One on the Key Fob if you like but I believe it cost $650." Now I am curious what it is I would actually be paying for if I paid the $650???
@@TrainerSteveClifford So do you think they are ill-informed or just trying to up-sale me? I'd like to send the salesperson your video to see how he would respond.
First off, I want to thank you for providing accurate, concise and easy to understand informative video and forum content! Subscribed, despite the advertisements which I understand you have little control over-just a personal thing. I am wondering if the remote start works on manual transmission Toyota Tacoma as long as it is parked in neutral? Not sure how much of a liability this is, or if there is a neutral safety switch on manual transmissions. Thank you in advance.
Unfortunately, no. Even in neutral Toyota doesn’t allow remote start on manual. Some models have “Remote Connect” but that only allows remote locking and vehicle location but not starting
Thanks Steve, I did decline the services, but now that its getting cold in the mornings I want the remote start. I tried resetting to default, but that didn't help. I will call the number as you suggest.
Hi, my 2024 toyota corolla LE gas in canada also want to activate remote start for free from key fob. Have you tried calling that number. Can you please provide me the whole procedure to do that please. I have 10 year free trial on remote connect and safety connect both. But my keyfob cant be started. Please let me know the procedure. Please help
This is awesome! Thank you. Do you know if we have the DCM activated, do we have to have the app as well to use the fab to start? Wondering if we can save the $ from the app!
Great info Steve - Thanks for sharing - Can 2 people use the remote start feature on the APP if they both have the APP installed (Say husband and Wife?) as an example - if so are there any special quirks or instructions on how to set this up and or use the feature on the APP?
It can be done but the app wasn’t really designed for that. Here’s the video on hope to set it up. ua-cam.com/video/mTYrUlISbSI/v-deo.htmlsi=iBOkVW21jM3nk-pc
My ghh max is not consistent with the key fob feature. Most of the time it doesn’t work even on my newly issued 2nd key fob. However, I noticed, when the phone app is on, it will work…. If the app need to be open, it doesn’t make sense. Why would I use the key fob to remote start if I need to open the app. Might as well start from the app. I wanted to make my key fob work even without the app in case I ended my trial or forgot my phone.
I recency purchased 2024 Sienna LE. In myToyota app, I see Safety Connect and Service Connect trials. But I do not see Remote Connect service at all. Not even when I select Add services. Is there a way to get Remote Connect service added?
@@TrainerSteveClifford thank you for your prompt response. In absence of Remote Connect Service, What are my options to enable remote start for my Sienna?
@@TrainerSteveClifford I had gotten similar remote starter installed from BestBuy on my old minivan. But the only concern I have with such installations is about Toyota manufacturer warranty. After installing such aftermarket remote starter from non-toyota-dealer, will it void any warranty?
@@mandarhawaldar It could. If the installation affects any factory component and that component fails, then it would not be covered under the factory warranty. It pays to get a good installer.
Just picked up a 23’ Highlander Platinum. With remote start are there any automatic features. Such as, if it’s cold does it automatically turn up temp, turn on heated seats, steering wheel, windshield de/icer, and front rear defrost. Or on hot days decrease temp, ventilated seats or a/c.
I know you say this works from the key fob for cars that came with remote connect…but what about a Camry SE that has a regular key not the push button start? They say those do not come with Remote Connect as an option, but they come with Service Connect I believe they said… I assume since they do not offer the remote connect app on the Camry SE 2024, that even though the DCM uses Service Connect, the key fob probably wouldn’t remote start the car since Remote Connect wasn’t available? Any info you might know would be helpful. Thank you!
Unless the car came with the upgrade audio, it does not have remote connect or remote start with the fob. However… there are are small number of Camrys that I’ve seen that can remote start off the fob without remote connect. These are errors from the factory and Tito’s will not support them. The only ones I’ve seen to do this have the package with the smart key entry
@@amer-inkan2026 if the green light is on, it’s active. You can also hit the SOS button and see if it calls Toyota. If it’s inactive, you’ll get a recording that it isn’t working and to call Toyota
Not unless you have the upgraded audio system. The Camry still has the legacy audio package and doesn’t have some of the features I show in a lot of videos
I did uninstall mine on a old phone. Tried to reinstall on my new phone. I have a 2006 Tacoma and it shows right up on my app. But when I try and install my 2019 Avalon that was installed. It says the following message. Vehicle not linked As a dealer-owned, fleet or commercial vehicle, we are unable to link this vehicle to your app or register you for Toyota Connected Services. I spent a hour and a half or more on the phone. Even had to send them a copy of my registration showing I owned the vehicle. And it still won't. So I called another number they texted me and now they are trying to sell me the $8 per month service. All I want is all my service records to show on the app like they use to. My remote even worked like you show at that time. But now all I get is the run around. Any help ?
Cars from rental fleets are not fun. Toyota has to unlink it and make the VIN available. You should be able to add it to your app at least to see service records. Usually, Toyota will add it for you when they release the fleet tag.
@@JWM5773 I got Venza 2024 and I have same thing - I can easily feel when the gas engine gets on and off. I did not have anything like that on my previous RAV4 hybrid. Did you fix it by a dealer or it went away by its own?
True or False: Just read online - Toyota's site - that the remote start via the key fob used here won't work after the Remote Connect (using the Toyota App) free trial has expired?? Mine expires next month so I'll find out for sure.
@@wtdash false. It will work off the key fob as long as you have at least one active subscription. That does not have to be the remote connect subscription. Service Connect is free for 10 years and is a subscription and as long as you have it, the key fob works as a remote start
Depends on which generation audio package. Older ones are $8/ month or $80/ year. Newer models are $15/ month but that also includes the subscription based navigation
Yes! All the Prime models include remote connect. Edit: the Prime has remote connect but it only starts the HVAC system so no, key fob will not start it
No. All Toyota have always done this. Some of the new models changed that. The cars with Safety Sense 3.0 have a drive away feature but it can’t be retroactively done
@@AissumGamer that has Safety Sense 2.5 which can’t have the drive off function. Right now, the Corolla family, Grand Highlander, Crown, Prius and BZ4X have 3.0
Thanks for the info, good to know the key fob remote start is tied to any subscription, not just Remote Connect.
Thank you sir. This is most clear and understandable information what I found on line. Thank you very much 👍
This just might convince me to not buy a new Toyota. I just don't want my car talking to the manufacturer or dealer without my knowing. And, it they are then going to hold a feature that I already paid for hostage unless I consent to them invading my privacy, well that is a bridge too far.
Recently, Mercedes gave up on requiring customers to pay a monthly subscription to get the heated seats (already installed in the car) to work. Customer push back forced them to drop it. Maybe if there is enough resistance Toyota will do the same.
😂😂😂😂😂
Settle down buttercup, no one is invading anything except your hurt feelings. You're not as important as you think for toyota or anyone else to want to waste their time tracking you.
Thank you for your help.. I just got my Rav 4 hybrid limited
Steve, it's very upsetting to learn after you buy a vehicle that convenience options stop working. You test drive the vehicle and check out the options, buy the vehicle than a year or two later they stop working. I own 2- 2022 Toyota's and feel cheated out of the features that worked but now don't. We should place a class action lawsuit on Toyota for this shady flim flam scam.
I have 2019 Camry, almost exactly 3 years just stopped working. Yes we should. My dealer kept trying to tell me I never had it. Pisses me off!
2025 Camry Hybrid XSE - the key fob lockX3-hold method works, AND the engine stays running when I open the door. I do have an active Remote Connect Subscription in the Trial period. Thank you for this info. I had no idea the key fob could do this, it's my first Toyota.
Straight up holding components of the vehicle, that were purchaed, for ransom. Absolutely disgusting and this just solidified that I will NOT be buying the Tundra that I was planning on. This $8/year and data theft just lost them sales from me permanently.
Thank you for clarifying what a bunch of greedy shysters they are. Now to research which truck to go with because I'm sure the rest are no better.
Thank you for this video. Bought a 4Runner on Friday and they told me the fob would not start my truck. Oh, yes it does!
Thank you so much for explaining this! Just bought a 24 4runner trd pro and immediately disabled all of the Spyware, including one that was installed by the dealer. I was wondering why my key fob no longer works. I can live without it, but kind of irritating that they force their services on on people who just want their privacy. Thanks again for explaining this, now I can stop trying.
Good very clear explanation, thanks. Remote start doesn't appeal a huge amount to me, it's definitely something I'd be willing to forego in order to prevent Toyota sharing my data with insurance companies who are going to mark me down on every braking and lane change they can conveniently categorise as over zealous or dangerous. I don't have accidents. But I also drive assertively. All insurance companies need to know to assess my risk is my accident and traffic history. As long as the keyfob works for remote unlocking I'm fine with not having remote starting.
Beyond that though, I do think it's ransomware on Toyota's part. "Give us your data which we can sell, pay us for the privilege" (might be a ten year free trial, but it affects resale value and will have a cost if you own the car beyond 10 years).
On my 68 THOUSAND DOLLAR 2024 Toyota Tundra Limited, I was told 80 a year after the first year, to keep remote connect activated. I wasn't happy about it, but said ok I will deal with that. Now a year later, after the trial is up, they are telling me it's 180 a year because they bundled two services together and you can't get Remote Connect separate. What BS. I can promise Toyota this, I will never buy or lease another Toyota again. I honestly can't believe people are paying this and a lawsuit hasn't formed against Toyota.
Hi Steve, used my key fob a remotely started my ‘24 Highlander hybrid. Also, remember I had asked about the low range experienced on my info screen when we first purchased our car. Since then, we have taken several long trips resulting in many fill ups. Initially, we only got a 420 mile range read out, but after the many trips we now get 525 mile range. We purchased the car Nov. 29, 2024. So, the range has gradually increased each fill up. Thought you’d like to know.
I'm buying a 2024 Toyota Crown tomorrow xle blk on blk on blk , this info is the same still , thxx for all the info my man
Unfortunately my 2024 Rav 4 works with the Keyfob and yes it shuts off when u unlock making it in my mind Completely Useless!! Our CRV has one that works for us normal people. TY Honda. Thanks for your info!!!
I’m new to this feature, but I would guess it would prevent someone in a parking lot beating you to the car, hopping in, and leaving with your vehicle.
My keyfob start was working on my 2021 Tacoma TRD sport but now it wont. Any idea what would be causing it not to work all of a sudden. It should definitely still be covered under the Service Connect subscription, right??
i’m having the same problem with my 21 venza. it worked like 2 months ago when i tested it, now that it’s getting cold and i wanna use it of course it’s not working lmao
My 2024 RAV4 Hybrid XSE is on order, and I asked our salesperson at Michael's Toyota in Bellevue, WA that we have been working with, about remote start (prior to seeing your video) and this is the answer I got, "As far as the Remote Start you can only do it on the App through the Toyota Connected Services which for you get free subscription, and on that you can use it for free for a year, you can add the One on the Key Fob if you like but I believe it cost $650." Now I am curious what it is I would actually be paying for if I paid the $650???
@@lizwolter560 they are likely selling an aftermarket system on top of the factory one. It can be done but it’s pointless.
@@TrainerSteveClifford So do you think they are ill-informed or just trying to up-sale me? I'd like to send the salesperson your video to see how he would respond.
@@lizwolter560 have at it. Many stores use my channel for training. The sales associate might not know about this feature
First off, I want to thank you for providing accurate, concise and easy to understand informative video and forum content! Subscribed, despite the advertisements which I understand you have little control over-just a personal thing. I am wondering if the remote start works on manual transmission Toyota Tacoma as long as it is parked in neutral? Not sure how much of a liability this is, or if there is a neutral safety switch on manual transmissions. Thank you in advance.
Unfortunately, no. Even in neutral Toyota doesn’t allow remote start on manual. Some models have “Remote Connect” but that only allows remote locking and vehicle location but not starting
Remote start for Toyoya works great up to about 15' away. Sucks further away.
I don't have any kind of subscription on mine and it still works.
You just saved me a ton of money! Thank you!
My remote start with the key fob stopped working. Can you give me any tips on how to get it working again?
Thanks Steve, I did decline the services, but now that its getting cold in the mornings I want the remote start. I tried resetting to default, but that didn't help. I will call the number as you suggest.
Hi, my 2024 toyota corolla LE gas in canada also want to activate remote start for free from key fob. Have you tried calling that number. Can you please provide me the whole procedure to do that please. I have 10 year free trial on remote connect and safety connect both. But my keyfob cant be started. Please let me know the procedure. Please help
This is awesome! Thank you. Do you know if we have the DCM activated, do we have to have the app as well to use the fab to start? Wondering if we can save the $ from the app!
@@SteveGrosse you only need the app to agree to the initial data consent. You get a 1 year free trial to the app but after that, you don’t need it
Great info Steve - Thanks for sharing - Can 2 people use the remote start feature on the APP if they both have the APP installed (Say husband and Wife?) as an example - if so are there any special quirks or instructions on how to set this up and or use the feature on the APP?
It can be done but the app wasn’t really designed for that. Here’s the video on hope to set it up. ua-cam.com/video/mTYrUlISbSI/v-deo.htmlsi=iBOkVW21jM3nk-pc
We just bought a 2015 Highlander XLE. Before I go to the dealership, Is that an option? I already tried the procedure to no avail. Thanks in advance.
Very informative, thank you.
My ghh max is not consistent with the key fob feature. Most of the time it doesn’t work even on my newly issued 2nd key fob. However, I noticed, when the phone app is on, it will work….
If the app need to be open, it doesn’t make sense. Why would I use the key fob to remote start if I need to open the app. Might as well start from the app.
I wanted to make my key fob work even without the app in case I ended my trial or forgot my phone.
I recency purchased 2024 Sienna LE. In myToyota app, I see Safety Connect and Service Connect trials. But I do not see Remote Connect service at all. Not even when I select Add services.
Is there a way to get Remote Connect service added?
Remote Connect is not available at all on the LE Sienna unfortunately. The Sienna is one of the last models with the older multimedia system
@@TrainerSteveClifford thank you for your prompt response.
In absence of Remote Connect Service, What are my options to enable remote start for my Sienna?
@@mandarhawaldar aftermarket units are the only way. Your dealer may help but you’re lower cost method would be an automotive specialty shop near you
@@TrainerSteveClifford I had gotten similar remote starter installed from BestBuy on my old minivan. But the only concern I have with such installations is about Toyota manufacturer warranty. After installing such aftermarket remote starter from non-toyota-dealer, will it void any warranty?
@@mandarhawaldar It could. If the installation affects any factory component and that component fails, then it would not be covered under the factory warranty. It pays to get a good installer.
Just picked up a 23’ Highlander Platinum. With remote start are there any automatic features.
Such as, if it’s cold does it automatically turn up temp, turn on heated seats, steering wheel, windshield de/icer, and front rear defrost. Or on hot days decrease temp, ventilated seats or a/c.
On the Highlander, it turns on whatever was on when you shut it off. The new Grand Highlander has a number of features you can remotely control.
I know you say this works from the key fob for cars that came with remote connect…but what about a Camry SE that has a regular key not the push button start? They say those do not come with Remote Connect as an option, but they come with Service Connect I believe they said… I assume since they do not offer the remote connect app on the Camry SE 2024, that even though the DCM uses Service Connect, the key fob probably wouldn’t remote start the car since Remote Connect wasn’t available? Any info you might know would be helpful. Thank you!
Actually I think the 2024 SE they said comes with Safety Connect not Service Connect.
Unless the car came with the upgrade audio, it does not have remote connect or remote start with the fob. However… there are are small number of Camrys that I’ve seen that can remote start off the fob without remote connect. These are errors from the factory and Tito’s will not support them. The only ones I’ve seen to do this have the package with the smart key entry
Good afternoon I have a 2023 TRD off-road, what can I do to get the remote start.
TRD Off Rides Road Tacoma? It has it. Unless you declined the data consent, it should work
Steve, how far away can you be to remote start the vehicle with the key fob? Is it run through Bluetooth or the normal four foot perimeter?
@@richritter the range is the same as your key fob for unlocking. Generally in the 40 foot range but that varies by a number of things
@@TrainerSteveClifford Cool, thanks!
Hi Steve, how does one know if the DCM is active? We bought a used 2024 I can remember if we declined consent
@@amer-inkan2026 if the green light is on, it’s active. You can also hit the SOS button and see if it calls Toyota. If it’s inactive, you’ll get a recording that it isn’t working and to call Toyota
@@TrainerSteveClifford thank you so much!!!!!!! ☺️
Will I get a notification in tens I need to renew the subscriptions.
Yes. In your app and be email about a month before expiration
I have service connect and safety connect on my phone but I don’t see remote connect. I have a 2024 Camry se, does it not come with that model?
Not unless you have the upgraded audio system. The Camry still has the legacy audio package and doesn’t have some of the features I show in a lot of videos
In short... Toyota has no remote start.
I did uninstall mine on a old phone. Tried to reinstall on my new phone. I have a 2006 Tacoma and it shows right up on my app. But when I try and install my 2019 Avalon that was installed. It says the following message.
Vehicle not linked
As a dealer-owned, fleet or commercial vehicle, we are unable to link this vehicle to your app or register you for Toyota Connected Services.
I spent a hour and a half or more on the phone. Even had to send them a copy of my registration showing I owned the vehicle. And it still won't. So I called another number they texted me and now they are trying to sell me the $8 per month service. All I want is all my service records to show on the app like they use to. My remote even worked like you show at that time. But now all I get is the run around. Any help ?
Cars from rental fleets are not fun. Toyota has to unlink it and make the VIN available. You should be able to add it to your app at least to see service records. Usually, Toyota will add it for you when they release the fleet tag.
Mine is a 2022 AWD camry
Hey Steve
Is it normal for the drive feel a little rough acceleration from a stop from Ev to Gas mode?
On a hybrid? No. The transition is pretty seamless. You can hear and feel it but it isn’t abrupt. Very subtle
@@TrainerSteveClifford yes Hybrid. Slow acceleration seems a little rough. Fast acceleration does not.
@@JWM5773 have your dealer look at it if you’re concerned
@TrainerSteveClifford thanks I will monitor it and declde on dealer visit.
@@JWM5773 I got Venza 2024 and I have same thing - I can easily feel when the gas engine gets on and off. I did not have anything like that on my previous RAV4 hybrid.
Did you fix it by a dealer or it went away by its own?
True or False: Just read online - Toyota's site - that the remote start via the key fob used here won't work after the Remote Connect (using the Toyota App) free trial has expired?? Mine expires next month so I'll find out for sure.
@@wtdash false. It will work off the key fob as long as you have at least one active subscription. That does not have to be the remote connect subscription. Service Connect is free for 10 years and is a subscription and as long as you have it, the key fob works as a remote start
I have a 21 rav4 XLE and i can’t believe it doesn’t work.
If your car didn't have the upgrade audio, it isn't able to do it.
What happens when the 10 year trial period ends?
@@abnmr2830 I honestly don’t know. I suspect it will still work but I have nothing official for that
How much it cost after the free trial is done ?
Depends on which generation audio package. Older ones are $8/ month or $80/ year. Newer models are $15/ month but that also includes the subscription based navigation
Does this work on Rav 4 Prime?
Yes! All the Prime models include remote connect.
Edit: the Prime has remote connect but it only starts the HVAC system so no, key fob will not start it
Do I use this method to start my 2024 RAV4 prime or use the A/C button? TIA
@@YZERPLAN the Prime is different. It doesn’t actually start but only turns on the HVAC system
I have remote start from the key fob and I never downloaded the Toyota app and I never accepted or declined any connected services.
Your car is still transmitting your location data to Toyota
Thanks for the info but the name of the company is ridiculous
Thanks for the video. After using the remote start feature, the car shut down when you touch the handle, would you know how to disable it?
No. All Toyota have always done this. Some of the new models changed that. The cars with Safety Sense 3.0 have a drive away feature but it can’t be retroactively done
@@TrainerSteveClifford Thank you for the quick response. Mine is a Rav4 2023 Xle premium.
@@AissumGamer that has Safety Sense 2.5 which can’t have the drive off function. Right now, the Corolla family, Grand Highlander, Crown, Prius and BZ4X have 3.0
How can I tell if I declined the data service
@@pennyg7281 look at the SOS button. If there is a green light, the DCM is active. If there is no light, it’s off.
Hi Steve , how close do you have to be to the car to sure the key fob to remote start?
@@davepalmatier1540 it varies but generally 40-60 feet. If you can lock it with the fob, you can start it with the fob
Or you pay $75 at pepboys have them installed a remote start.. will last for the life of the car... easy!
I can't think of a more useless feature than remote start??? 😂