How To Use The Volkswagen Atlas Remote Start
The market for three-row SUVs is highly competitive, with plenty of options to suit consumers’ wide range of preferences. The Ford Explorer, Toyota Highlander, and Honda Pilot are popular choices, each offering a balance of space, comfort, and reliability. However, one rarely mentioned model is the Volkswagen Atlas – a relatively new model launched in 2018.
The Volkswagen Atlas competes in the three-row SUV market, emphasizing its large size, practical features, and attractive pricing. It offers a smooth driving experience, combining a comfortable ride with unexpectedly agile handling for a vehicle of its dimensions. Inside, the Atlas boasts a tranquil and spacious cabin with a genuinely adult-friendly third-row seat. Additionally, its innovatively designed second row moves smoothly, providing easy access to the rear seats.
If you’re reading this, you’re likely interested in the Volkswagen Atlas remote start feature. In this case, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s discuss everything you need to know about the Atlas remote start feature.
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What Exactly is Remote Start?
Remote Start is a convenient feature that offers several practical benefits for commuters. It allows drivers to warm up their cars from indoors on cold mornings, which saves time and provides a more comfortable start to the day. Similarly, in hot weather, it can be used to cool the car before entering, offering relief from the heat.
In terms of safety, Remote Start can illuminate the car and the surrounding area, which is helpful in dark environments. Additionally, it helps the engine by allowing it to warm up slowly, potentially reducing wear. This feature is a time-saver for those with busy schedules, as it enables them to prepare the car while handling at work or preparing to leave for work. Overall, Remote Start adds a touch of comfort and efficiency to daily commutes.
Remote Start allows drivers to start their car from a distance using either a key fob or a smartphone app. Before starting the engine, it ensures that the car is locked and in park mode. During operation, the car remains locked. Once the car is started remotely, the driver can enter, press the brake pedal, and drive off as usual.
Does the Volkswagen Atlas Have a Remote Start?
Yes. The good news is that Remote Start is a standard feature on first-gen Volkswagen Atlas models (2018-present). However, the availability of the feature varies by model year and trim.
For the 2019, 2020, and 2021 Atlas models, remote start is available as an option for the entry-level S and SE models, with select S models and higher trims having it as standard. From 2022 onwards, remote start comes standard on the entry-level SE model and is standard for all higher trims. Specifically, starting with the 2021 Volkswagen Atlas SE with Technology trim, remote start is standard on every trim level above it, while it’s available for an additional cost on trims below that level.
Let’s break it down for you:
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2018 Model:
- For the base SE model of 2018, remote start functionality was available, depending on the selected technology package.
2019, 2020, 2021 Models:
- Remote start is available as an option for entry-level S and SE models.
- Select S models and higher trims include remote start as standard.
2022 and Newer Models:
- Remote start standard on the entry-level SE model (port installed).
- Standard on all higher trims.
Specifically for the 2021 Model:
- Remote start is standard on every trim level above, starting from the SE with Technology trim.
- Available for an additional cost on trims below the SE with Technology trim.
How Does the Volkswagen Atlas Remote Start Work?
Thankfully, using the Volkswagen Atlas remote start is reasonably straightforward. You can activate remote start on your Atlas with either the key fob or app:
Via Key Fob
- Before you can use the remote start, make sure your Atlas is properly locked. This is a safety requirement to engage the remote start system.
- Take your key fob and find the button designated for remote start. This button is typically marked with a circular arrow symbol.
- Press the lock button on your key fob first, then immediately press and hold the remote start button. Usually, you’ll need to hold the button for about two to three seconds.
- The Atlas will respond with flashing parking lights or another signal when it is successfully activated. This indicates that the engine has started and the vehicle is either warming up or cooling down, depending on the last-used temperature settings.
- Once you’re ready to drive, simply unlock your Atlas and get in. To drive off, you’ll need to insert the key into the ignition or press the start button, depending on your model.
Via Mobile App
Alternatively, you can use the VW Car-Net app to activate the remote start on your Volkswagen Atlas. Follow the steps below:
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- If you haven’t already, download the Volkswagen Car-Net app on your smartphone and complete the setup process. This will require registering your vehicle and creating an account.
- Open the Car-Net app on your smartphone and log in using your credentials.
- If you have multiple vehicles registered, select the Volkswagen Atlas you wish to start.
- Within the app, navigate to the remote start feature. This is usually found under a menu labeled ‘Remote Commands’ or something similar.
- Follow the prompts in the app to start the engine. This might involve confirming your selection or entering a PIN for security purposes.
- The app should provide a confirmation once the engine starts, and it may also display the current interior temperature of your vehicle.
- When you’re ready to drive, simply approach your Atlas, unlock it, and enter. You’ll need to insert the key or press the start button to drive off, just like with the key fob method.
Keep in mind that these are general guides on how to activate Remote Start on a Volkswagen Atlas, so some steps might be different for your vehicle. Always refer to your Owner’s Manual to find out how to access the Volkswagen Remote Start and other features.
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