Hyundai Elantra Remote Start: The Full Rundown
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Although the Hyundai Elantra is an entry-level vehicle, the Korean automaker has added upscale features to the compact sedan as a way of taking on the competition. Among them is remote start. Many Elantra versions have a basic key fob-based remote start. However, as far back as the 2017 model year, most Elantra trims offered advanced remote start via a smartphone. With this in mind, we’re breaking out the details about Hyundai Elantra remote start.
Remote start is excellent if you want to warm up a cold car on a wintery morning or cool down a cabin heated by the scorching summer sun. Yet you’ll need to know how this feature works to take advantage of everything the Elantra offers.
You’ll find this information about Hyundai Elantra Remote Start helpful if you’re considering buying an Elantra or already have one in the driveway. But because equipment and features can change between model years and vary by trim, it’s always a good idea to review the owner’s manual to confirm how your Elantra is equipped.
At a Distance: Hyundai Elantra Remote Start
Smart Key Remote
Hyundai Elantra remote start begins with a basic key fob (Hyundai calls this a “smart key” on newer models). Look for a circular arrow (an incomplete circle with an arrow on one end) on the smart key. If you see this icon, you’re all set. But don’t worry if this symbol is missing. Later, we’ll review how to add a remote start system to your Elantra.
Double-check the owner’s manual for complete details, but here’s how remote starting via the Elantra’s smart key works.
- Ensure you’re within 32 feet of the car.
- Press the lock button on the fob.
- Within four seconds after locking, press and hold the button with the circular arrow.
- If successful, a red light on the fob will blink, and the car’s hazard lights will briefly flash.
A car with a manual climate control system will stay at the existing settings, while an Elantra with automatic climate control will change to 72°F. The car will run for up to 15 minutes but can be shut off by pressing the remote start button again.
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My Hyundai App
In 2017, Hyundai introduced Bluelink to the Elantra; most trims have been equipped with this feature since then. Bluelink provides numerous services, including emergency notifications (like following an accident), vehicle monitoring, and remote start. The remote start component (and others) is accessed via the MyHyundai smartphone app. So, assuming you have an active Bluelink subscription and a compatible smartphone, you can start your Elantra from just about anywhere, making the process more convenient than using the smart key.
After installing the app and registering your Elantra, remote start is simple. Open the app and press “remote start.” If the car has specific equipment, you can set the climate controls, engage the defrosters, and turn on the heated/cooled seats and the heated steering wheel. There’s also an option for specifying how long you want the car to run.
MyHyundai Web Portal
If your Elantra can be started with a smartphone, you can also use the MyHundai web portal. Make sure you’re registered, then sign in and click on the remote start link. The functionality is similar to what’s on the app. Web access is convenient if your phone has an empty battery or isn’t convenient.
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Hyundai Digital Key
With the launch of the seventh-generation Elantra for the 2021 model year, Hyundai added many high-tech features, including a digital key. Via a separate Hyundai Digital Key app, owners can open, lock, and start their Elantras (in the Limited trim) without having the key fob.
The system uses NFC (near-field communication) technology in compatible phones. So, a user just needs to touch the phone to a front door handle for control. Hyundai also offers an NFC card (the same size as a credit card) that substitutes for the digital key app. Once inside, place the phone or card on the wireless charger pad and press the start button.
The digital key app has a remote start function and can send a digital key to another enabled phone if you want to give someone else access to your car.
Hyundai Elantra Remote Start: The Aftermarket Approach
Whether you own an older Elantra or a newer base model, not all of these Hyundais come with a factory remote start system. But there’s nothing to worry about if you still want this convenience. There are numerous aftermarket solutions.
Spend time online researching the options or visit a local custom shop to discuss the possibilities. Adding remote start isn’t overwhelmingly complex, but making an informed decision is always best.
For the most part, you’ll be able to choose between a basic one-way system that remotely turns the engine on or off or a two-way system that also confirms commands and provides status updates. Prices for a quality system range from $200-$500 before installation costs. Higher-end offerings may include a mobile app, climate controls, and alarm notifications. Avoid cheap systems from unknown brands; such products can be troublesome and provide little customer service.
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Although you might be tempted to install a remote start system yourself, don’t. Remote start technology requires an experienced mobile electronics installer to handle the job. Your vehicle’s electrical system or the add-on components can be damaged by improper work. Labor rates typically run $100-$250 per hour, with the task taking one to three hours (more for complex installations).
Hyundai Elantra Remote Start: Safety Tips
Whether you’re using a factory remote start or an aftermarket system, there are basic safety considerations to be aware of.
- Only use the remote start when the car is in an open, well-ventilated area. Remotely starting a vehicle in a garage or other confined space can create a build-up of toxic exhaust fumes.
- Ensure your vehicle is in park with the parking brake engaged before activating remote start.
- Keep the remote start fob safely out of the reach of children.
- Carefully review the instructions for the remote start system before first use.
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