Audi Q7 Remote Start: The Full Rundown
Audi owners are really a passionate bunch. They love the smooth performance and sophistication that Audi vehicles have in spades, for starters. Plus, you can’t forget the cutting-edge tech and innovation the German automaker is known for.
With that said, one of the most common questions that our readers ask about Audi is about the Remote Start feature. This is especially true for owners of the luxury SUV, Audi Q7.
Does the Audi Q7 SUV have a remote start?
Today’s post will highlight the Audi Q7 Remote Start, and we’ll discuss its availability, how to use the feature, its pros and cons, and more. Let’s dive right in.
What is Remote Start, Anyway?
Remote start is a handy feature that allows you to start your car’s engine from afar – inside your home, office, in a restaurant, and just about anywhere. Doesn’t it sound like a big deal?
Well, we all hate climbing into a cold car during winter or sitting in scorching leather seats on sweltering summers. The remote start lets you start the vehicle, activate the climate system, and pre-warm or pre-cool the interior. After a few minutes, you’re ready to board your car and drive away without having to deal with temperature discomfort.
Generally, the driver controls the remote start system through a tiny remote device, not unlike the standard key fob you use to activate or deactivate car alarms. The actual remote starter is a small equipment kit installed in the vehicle itself. The remote starter box is usually hooked up to the engine connectors such as the ignition switch, starter wire, brake wire, car’s ground wire, and more.
Once the box receives the signal from the remote starter, it activates the system and starts the engine.
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Audi Q7 Remote Start: Is It Available?
Short answer: no.
Audi has never had a remote start feature on all of its vehicles, including the Audi Q7 – at least not as a factory option. In fact, aftermarket remote start kits are some of the most popular modifications by Audi owners. While many American car manufacturers have added remote start to their vehicles, automakers based abroad have to deal with traffic laws.
The main reason why we haven’t seen an Audi with remote start capability is due to German traffic laws. In Germany, where Audi is based, there are tight regulations on vehicles for safety and environmental reasons. It’s illegal to keep your engine running while you’re not moving (except for traffic lights) due to avoidable exhaust emissions.
Unless there’s an upcoming amendment to that law, Audi legally can’t offer remote start as a standard feature for its vehicles. However, they have the Audi Advanced Key, which the company describes as the “next evolution of keyless entry technology.” If you want a conventional remote start with your Audi, you’d have to go down the aftermarket solutions route.
Interestingly enough, Volkswagen (who owns Audi) has VW models with remote start, including the Tiguan. However, it’s worth noting that the feature is only available for US Volkswagen models only.
What is the Audi Advanced Key?
Audi Advanced Key is basically the company’s version of keyless entry technology. It lets you safely enter your Audi Q7 without having to reach through your pockets or purse and push a button on a key fob.
While this may seem like a minor perk, it’s going to come in handy when you’re carrying big bags of groceries or several cups of hot coffee. This is one of those convenient features you never know you need until you’ve tried it.
With that said, the Audi Advanced Key isn’t comparable to a remote starter at all. Remote starters allow you to start the engine while outside the vehicle. In the Audi Q7’s case, you can use the Advanced Key to activate the SUV using a push-start mechanism. It’s not quite the Audi Remote Start that people would prefer, but it’s a convenient feature nonetheless.
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Audi Advanced Key: How Does It Work?
The Audi Advanced Key works by sending signals to the proximity sensors located in each car door and trunk lid. These sensors can detect the radio pulse generator inside the key that activates whenever you’re within 5 feet of your Q7 SUV. Once you open the door or trunk, the SUV will automatically unlock.
Some variants of the Advanced Key and different Audi models have memory capability. You can save driver profiles with customizable presets for things like your side mirrors and activate them via the advanced key fob.
Alternatively, you may use the myAudi smartphone app for features like remote access, vehicle status check, geofence boundaries, and more. The Remote Vehicle Access, in particular, allows you to lock and unlock your Q7 using your smartphone.
Audi Q7 Remote Start: FAQs
What if I want an actual remote start function for my Audi Q7?
Audi vehicles are made in Germany, where vehicle idling is illegal. Therefore, it’s unlikely that you’ll find an Audi with a factory remote start. If you want a remote start feature and not just the Advanced Key, your only option is to install an aftermarket Audi remote starter. There’s no shortage of aftermarket Audi remote starters available, and many owners swear by them.
Will I void my warranty if I install an aftermarket remote starter on my Audi Q7?
No. Despite how many dealers tell you that you may void your warranty with aftermarket parts, you’re not going to cancel your warranty with aftermarket remote starters. You’re protected by the Magnuson–Moss Warranty Act, stating that car companies can’t revoke your warranty by installing aftermarket parts or mods, provided that they’re installed correctly.
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Is it legal to use remote start?
While no regulation prohibits the installation of an Audi Q7 Remote Start, in some states, it’s actually illegal to idle your vehicle due to environmental concerns. Before going on with your plan to outfit your Q7 SUV with a remote start, we highly recommend checking the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) compilation of car idling laws for each state first.
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