Subaru Remote Start Not Working: 10 Causes and Easy Fixes

There is nothing more frustrating than stepping outside on a freezing winter morning, pressing the remote start button on your Subaru, and realizing that your vehicle refuses to respond. After all, remote start is designed to provide comfort and convenience by allowing your car to warm up before you even open the door. When it suddenly stops working, it can quickly turn a simple routine into an unexpected headache.

Many Subaru owners immediately assume the worst, believing that a failed remote start system means an expensive trip to the dealership. Fortunately, that is not always the case. In many situations, the issue can be traced back to something surprisingly simple, such as a weak key fob battery, an open hood sensor, or even an illuminated check engine light. Understanding the underlying cause can save you both time and money while helping you avoid unnecessary repairs.

In this guide, we will walk you through the 10 most common reasons why your Subaru remote start is not working and explain the practical solutions you can try yourself. Whether your remote start has stopped responding entirely or only works intermittently, these troubleshooting tips will help you identify the problem and get your Subaru back to operating as intended.

Quick Answer: Why Is Your Subaru Remote Start Not Working?

If your Subaru remote start is not working, the issue is often caused by one of a few common problems. In many cases, the fix is simple and does not require a visit to the dealership.

The most frequent causes include:

• A dead or weak key fob battery

• The vehicle hood not being completely closed

• Low vehicle battery voltage

• An illuminated check engine light

• Incorrect remote start activation procedures

• The transmission not being fully shifted into Park

• Signal interference or distance limitations

• Starlink connectivity issues on compatible models

• Remote start system malfunctions

• Key fob programming errors

Before assuming that your remote starter system has failed, take a few minutes to inspect these potential issues. Many Subaru owners are surprised to discover that replacing a small battery or closing the hood securely restores normal operation immediately. Starting with the simplest troubleshooting steps can save you valuable time, reduce stress, and potentially prevent expensive repair bills.

In the following sections, we will explore each cause in detail and explain exactly what you can do to get your remote start system functioning properly again.

Cause #1: Dead Key Fob Battery

One of the most common reasons a Subaru remote start system stops working is a weak or depleted key fob battery. Since the remote relies on battery power to communicate with your vehicle, even a partially drained battery can reduce its effectiveness and eventually prevent it from sending the remote start signal altogether.

Several warning signs may indicate that the key fob battery is approaching the end of its lifespan. You may notice that you need to stand much closer to the vehicle before the buttons respond. In some situations, the lock and unlock functions work inconsistently, while the remote start feature stops functioning completely. These symptoms often appear gradually, making them easy to overlook until the problem becomes impossible to ignore.

Fortunately, this is one of the easiest issues to resolve. Most Subaru key fobs use inexpensive coin cell batteries that can be purchased at supermarkets, electronics stores, or online retailers. Consult your owner’s manual to identify the correct battery type for your specific model. After replacing the battery, test the remote start function again to determine whether the issue has been resolved.

Regular battery replacement is an important part of key fob maintenance. If your key fob battery has not been changed in several years, replacing it should be one of the first troubleshooting steps you take when your Subaru remote start is not working.

Easy Fix

Replace the key fob battery with the recommended type specified in your Subaru owner’s manual. Ensure the battery is installed correctly with the proper polarity orientation before reassembling the key fob.

Cause #2: The Hood Is Not Fully Closed

Many Subaru owners are unaware that the vehicle’s hood position can directly affect the operation of the remote start system. As a built in safety feature, Subaru prevents the engine from starting remotely if the hood is detected as open. This mechanism helps protect anyone who may be working in the engine compartment.

In some cases, the hood may appear closed even though it has not fully engaged the latch mechanism. A slightly misaligned hood, debris around the latch area, or a faulty hood switch can cause the system to interpret the hood as being open. When this occurs, remote start will remain disabled regardless of how many times you attempt to activate it.

If your Subaru remote start suddenly stops working without any other obvious explanation, inspecting the hood should be one of your first troubleshooting steps. Open the hood completely and then close it firmly to ensure the latch engages properly. Pay attention to any dashboard warnings that may indicate a hood related issue.

Although this fix may seem overly simple, it has resolved remote start complaints for many Subaru drivers. Sometimes the easiest explanation is the correct one.

Easy Fix

Open the hood completely and close it securely. If the problem continues, inspect the hood latch area for dirt or damage and consider having the hood switch evaluated by a qualified technician.

Cause #3: Weak Vehicle Battery

Your Subaru’s remote start system depends on the vehicle battery to provide adequate electrical power during the starting process. If the battery voltage drops below acceptable levels, the system may disable remote start to prevent further battery drain or starting complications.

A weak battery often presents additional symptoms beyond remote start failure. You might notice dim headlights, sluggish engine cranking, flickering interior lights, or warning messages related to the vehicle’s electrical system. Cold temperatures can worsen these problems because batteries naturally lose efficiency in lower temperatures.

Vehicle batteries typically last between three and five years, depending on driving habits, climate conditions, and maintenance practices. If your battery is approaching the end of its expected lifespan, it may struggle to support energy intensive functions such as remote start.

Testing the battery is relatively straightforward. Many automotive parts stores offer complimentary battery testing services that can quickly determine whether your battery remains healthy. If the battery fails the test, replacement may restore normal remote start functionality and improve overall vehicle reliability.

Easy Fix

Have the battery tested using a voltmeter or at a local automotive service center. Recharge the battery if appropriate or replace it if it no longer meets performance specifications.

Cause #4: Incorrect Remote Start Procedure

Sometimes, the reason your Subaru remote start is not working has nothing to do with a malfunctioning component. Instead, the issue may stem from using an incorrect activation sequence. Subaru offers several remote start systems depending on the model year and trim level, and each system may require a slightly different procedure to initiate the engine remotely.

Many drivers assume that pressing the remote start button once is enough. However, some Subaru key fobs require a specific sequence involving the lock button followed by multiple presses of the remote start button within a certain timeframe. If the sequence is not completed correctly, the vehicle will ignore the command.

This situation is especially common among new Subaru owners or those who have recently switched from another vehicle brand with a different remote start setup. In other cases, family members who share the vehicle may not be familiar with the proper activation process and mistakenly believe that the system has failed.

Reviewing the instructions in your owner’s manual can quickly eliminate this possibility. If your Subaru uses the Starlink mobile application for remote start, verify that you are following the appropriate steps within the app and that all account settings are configured correctly.

Before scheduling a service appointment, confirm that the remote start system is being operated exactly as intended by the manufacturer. This simple step can prevent unnecessary frustration and save you both time and money.

Easy Fix

Refer to your Subaru owner’s manual for the exact remote start procedure for your model. Practice the sequence carefully and test the system again to determine whether the issue has been resolved.

Cause #5: The Check Engine Light Is On

If the check engine light is illuminated on your dashboard, your Subaru may intentionally disable the remote start feature. This safety precaution is designed to prevent the engine from operating remotely when an underlying mechanical or emissions related issue requires attention.

Many drivers are surprised to learn that even relatively minor problems can trigger the check engine light and interfere with remote start functionality. A loose gas cap, a faulty oxygen sensor, or a small evaporative emissions leak may be enough to activate the warning system. Although these issues may not immediately affect the way the vehicle drives, the remote start system often treats them as conditions that must be addressed before operation can continue.

Ignoring the check engine light can lead to more serious complications over time. Therefore, identifying the cause of the warning should become a priority. An OBD II scanner can retrieve diagnostic trouble codes and provide valuable information about the source of the problem. Many automotive parts retailers offer complimentary code scanning services, making it easier for drivers to understand what repairs may be necessary.

Once the underlying issue has been repaired and the warning light has been cleared, remote start functionality often returns automatically. If the system remains inactive, additional diagnostic procedures may be required.

Easy Fix

Scan the vehicle for diagnostic trouble codes using an OBD II scanner. Address any issues identified during the scan and verify that the check engine light has been cleared before testing the remote start system again.

Cause #6: The Vehicle Is Not Properly Shifted Into Park

Subaru equips its remote start systems with multiple safety features designed to prevent unintended vehicle movement. One of these safeguards requires the transmission to be fully engaged in the Park position before remote start can be activated.

If the gear selector is not completely shifted into Park when the engine is turned off, the remote start system may refuse to operate. This situation can occur if the driver exits the vehicle quickly, fails to apply enough pressure when moving the selector, or experiences a minor issue with the transmission position sensor.

In some cases, drivers may notice that the remote start problem occurs intermittently. The system works normally on certain occasions but refuses to respond at other times. When this pattern emerges, it is worth paying closer attention to how the vehicle is parked and shut down after each trip.

A faulty transmission range sensor can produce similar symptoms. This component informs the vehicle’s computer of the transmission’s current position. If it sends inaccurate information, the system may incorrectly believe that the vehicle is not in Park, preventing remote start from functioning.

Fortunately, the simplest explanation is often the correct one. Ensuring that the transmission is securely positioned before leaving the vehicle can eliminate this issue entirely.

Easy Fix

Before turning off the engine, confirm that the gear selector is firmly placed in the Park position. If the problem persists despite proper shifting habits, consult a qualified technician to inspect the transmission range sensor and related components.

Cause #7: Remote Start System Malfunction

If you have already checked the battery, hood latch, check engine light, and activation procedure, the problem may lie within the remote start system itself. Like any electronic feature, remote start components can experience wear, software glitches, or hardware failures over time.

A malfunctioning remote start system often presents inconsistent symptoms. The feature may work perfectly one day and fail the next without any obvious explanation. Some owners report receiving visual confirmation from the vehicle, such as flashing lights, but the engine never starts. Others may find that the remote start function stops responding altogether despite all other key fob features operating normally.

Several components contribute to the proper operation of the system, including control modules, wiring connections, sensors, and relays. A problem affecting any of these parts can interfere with the remote start sequence. Exposure to moisture, extreme temperatures, or previous electrical repairs may increase the likelihood of system related issues.

In certain Subaru models, disconnecting and reconnecting the vehicle battery may temporarily reset electronic modules and restore functionality. However, this approach should only be used after reviewing the owner’s manual or consulting a qualified technician, as some systems require specific reset procedures.

When troubleshooting efforts fail to identify the cause, professional diagnostic equipment may be necessary. Technicians can access manufacturer specific information that is not available through standard diagnostic tools.

Easy Fix

Review your owner’s manual for any recommended reset procedures related to the remote start system. If the issue continues, schedule a professional inspection to diagnose potential electrical or module related problems.

Cause #8: Subaru Starlink Connectivity Issues

Many newer Subaru vehicles offer remote start functionality through the Subaru Starlink mobile application. While this technology provides added convenience, it also introduces another potential source of problems when connectivity issues arise.

If your Subaru remote start works through the key fob but fails through the Starlink app, the issue may be linked to the application’s settings, subscription status, or communication network. Temporary server disruptions, outdated software versions, or mobile device compatibility problems can prevent remote commands from reaching the vehicle.

Drivers sometimes overlook the importance of maintaining an active Starlink subscription. Certain connected services require ongoing enrollment, and remote start capabilities may become unavailable once the subscription expires. Additionally, poor cellular coverage can interfere with communication between the app and the vehicle.

Keeping the application updated is another important consideration. Software updates frequently address bugs, improve security, and enhance compatibility with newer smartphone operating systems. Neglecting these updates may contribute to unexpected functionality issues.

Before assuming there is a problem with your vehicle, spend a few moments evaluating the digital side of the system. In many cases, restoring app functionality resolves the remote start concern immediately.

Easy Fix

Confirm that your Starlink subscription is active and that the application is updated to the latest version. Log out of the app, restart your mobile device, and sign back in before attempting another remote start command.

Cause #9: Signal Range Limitations and Interference

Remote start systems rely on wireless communication, which means their effectiveness can be influenced by distance and environmental conditions. If your Subaru remote start only works occasionally or requires you to stand unusually close to the vehicle, signal limitations may be responsible.

Every remote start system has an operating range. Attempting to activate the system from beyond this distance may result in no response from the vehicle. Large buildings, parking garages, concrete walls, and dense urban environments can further weaken the signal and reduce reliability.

Electronic interference is another factor worth considering. Devices operating on similar frequencies, including certain security systems and communication equipment, may disrupt the transmission between the key fob and the vehicle. While these situations are relatively uncommon, they can create inconsistent behavior that is difficult to reproduce.

Weather conditions occasionally contribute as well. Severe storms or other environmental factors may slightly affect signal performance, although they are rarely the sole cause of persistent remote start problems.

If you suspect a range related issue, conduct a simple test by moving progressively closer to the vehicle while attempting to activate the system. Consistent operation at shorter distances may indicate that signal strength is the primary concern.

Easy Fix

Move closer to the vehicle and attempt the remote start sequence again. Replace the key fob battery if signal strength appears weak and avoid testing the system in areas known for significant electronic interference.

Cause #10: Key Fob Programming Issues

If you have ruled out all of the previous causes and your Subaru remote start is still not working, the problem may involve the key fob’s programming. The key fob communicates with your vehicle using coded information that must be properly synchronized with the vehicle’s electronic systems. If this programming becomes corrupted or incomplete, remote start functionality may stop working even though other buttons on the fob continue to operate.

Programming issues are especially common after replacing a lost key fob, purchasing a used Subaru with an aftermarket remote starter, or changing components related to the vehicle’s security system. In some situations, the remote may partially function, allowing you to lock and unlock the doors while preventing the remote start feature from activating.

Because programming procedures vary significantly between Subaru models and production years, attempting to reprogram the fob without the proper equipment can be challenging. Professional locksmiths and Subaru dealerships often have specialized tools designed to pair the key fob correctly with the vehicle.

If you recently replaced your key fob and began experiencing remote start problems shortly afterward, programming should be one of the first areas to investigate. A simple reprogramming procedure may restore full functionality without requiring any additional repairs.

Easy Fix

If you suspect a programming issue, contact a Subaru dealership or an experienced automotive locksmith to verify that the key fob has been programmed correctly for your specific vehicle.

When Should You Visit a Subaru Dealer?

While many remote start problems can be resolved at home, there are situations where professional assistance is the best course of action. Continuing to troubleshoot complex electrical problems without the proper diagnostic tools may lead to unnecessary frustration and increased repair costs.

You should consider scheduling an appointment with a Subaru dealer if the remote start system remains inoperative after completing all basic troubleshooting steps. Professional evaluation is also recommended if multiple dashboard warning lights are illuminated, electrical systems throughout the vehicle are behaving unpredictably, or the issue began shortly after a software update or repair procedure.

Vehicles that remain under warranty may benefit from dealership service because certain repairs could be covered by the manufacturer’s warranty program. Attempting unauthorized repairs in these cases may affect warranty eligibility.

Modern Subaru vehicles rely heavily on interconnected electronic systems. Technicians have access to factory diagnostic equipment capable of identifying software faults, module failures, and communication errors that standard diagnostic tools may not detect.

Seeking expert assistance at the appropriate time can save valuable time and help prevent small issues from developing into more expensive problems.

Signs That Professional Help Is Needed

• The remote start system stopped working suddenly without explanation.

• Dashboard warning lights remain illuminated.

• Multiple electronic functions are affected.

• Troubleshooting steps have failed to resolve the issue.

• The vehicle is still covered by warranty.

Estimated Subaru Remote Start Repair Costs

Understanding potential repair costs can help you make informed decisions when addressing remote start problems. The final expense will depend on the underlying cause, your Subaru model, and local labor rates.

Replacing a key fob battery is usually the least expensive solution and can often be completed for less than fifteen dollars. Vehicle battery replacement costs generally range from one hundred to three hundred dollars, depending on battery specifications and installation charges.

If key fob reprogramming is necessary, dealerships and locksmiths may charge anywhere from fifty to one hundred fifty dollars for the service. Diagnostic inspections performed by repair facilities commonly cost between one hundred and two hundred dollars.

More extensive repairs involving remote start modules or related electrical components can exceed several hundred dollars. Although these situations are less common, obtaining an accurate diagnosis before authorizing repairs is essential to avoid unnecessary expenses.

Addressing minor issues promptly often prevents larger problems from developing. Early intervention can ultimately reduce repair costs and restore the convenience of remote start functionality more quickly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did my Subaru remote start suddenly stop working?

A Subaru remote start system can stop working for several reasons, including a dead key fob battery, a weak vehicle battery, an illuminated check engine light, an open hood sensor, or programming related issues. Starting with the simplest troubleshooting steps is usually the most effective approach.

Can a dead key fob battery affect remote start?

Yes. A weak or depleted key fob battery can reduce signal strength and prevent remote start commands from reaching the vehicle. Replacing the battery is often one of the easiest and least expensive solutions.

Does the check engine light disable Subaru remote start?

In many Subaru models, the remote start system is designed to deactivate when the check engine light is on. Resolving the issue that triggered the warning light may restore remote start functionality.

Can I reset my Subaru remote start system myself?

Some Subaru models allow basic reset procedures, while others require specialized equipment. Consult your owner’s manual for model specific instructions before attempting a reset.

How much does it cost to fix a Subaru remote start system?

Repair costs vary depending on the cause of the problem. Simple fixes such as battery replacement may cost less than fifteen dollars, while advanced electrical repairs can range from several hundred dollars to more substantial amounts.

Conclusion

Dealing with a Subaru remote start not working issue can be frustrating, especially when you depend on the feature during cold winter mornings or hot summer afternoons. Fortunately, remote start failures are not always signs of serious mechanical problems. In many cases, the solution is as simple as replacing a key fob battery, ensuring the hood is fully closed, or addressing a check engine light that has gone unnoticed.

By following a systematic troubleshooting process, you can eliminate common causes one by one and potentially restore your remote start system without incurring unnecessary repair expenses. Taking the time to understand how the system operates also makes it easier to recognize warning signs before they evolve into more complicated issues.

If your efforts do not resolve the problem, do not hesitate to seek professional assistance. Subaru technicians have the expertise and diagnostic tools needed to identify more complex concerns and recommend the appropriate repairs.

Ultimately, knowing the most common reasons why a Subaru remote start is not working empowers you to make informed decisions, save money, and get back to enjoying the convenience that this feature was designed to provide.