Why Do Audis Not Have Remote Start: As one of the leading luxury automobile manufacturers, Audi has always prioritized precision engineering, innovation, and safety. Regarding integrating remote start technology, Audi vehicles do not come standard with this feature for several reasons.
In Germany, it’s illegal to leave a car running unattended. This law shapes Audi’s design, prioritizing features like the Audi Advanced Key instead of a remote start.
While many other automakers include remote start as a convenience for their drivers, Audi’s decision is deeply rooted in their design philosophy, focusing on environmental regulations, safety concerns, and technological alternatives.
For more details about Audi, begin exploring Carsdensity for all the necessary information.
Table of Contents:
What is Remote Start?
GM introduced remote start in 2003. It allows drivers to start their car from a distance using a special key fob or mobile app. Once activated, the vehicle runs for a set period, usually 10-15 minutes.
Audi Remote Start Availability
For many years, Audi remote start has only been available as an aftermarket option, widely prevalent among owners. However, due to regulations in countries like Germany, where Audi is based, remote start is not offered as a standard feature.
Despite this, Audi key fobs can support remote start technology, and some older models can be retrofitted with this feature.
Some Audi dealerships offer remote start programming on OEM key fobs in response to demand. The myAudi app can also control remote start systems via smartphones. Other accessory companies offer aftermarket installations as well.
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Audi Advanced Key Capabilities
Instead of remote start, Audi provides the Audi Advanced Key, which enables keyless entry and push-button start. This system uses sensors that detect when you’re near the vehicle, allowing you to unlock doors or start the engine without removing the key from your pocket or bag.
Although not a complete remote start, the push-start function offers similar convenience. Audi Advanced Key can store driver profiles for customized seat and mirror settings. The myAudi app also allows remote vehicle access, including unlocking the car from any distance.
While it doesn’t offer the full remote start feature, the Audi Advanced Key provides many of the same advantages, making it a convenient option for drivers.
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Pros & Cons of Remote Start
Using remote start is a personal choice with both advantages and disadvantages.
Pros:
- Weather Acclimation: Remote start lets you warm or cool your car before getting in, which is ideal for extreme climates. It also allows the engine to reach optimal temperature before driving.
- Convenience: Remote start is helpful when your hands are full. It provides easy access to your vehicle without fumbling for keys. Advanced systems also allow climate control via mobile apps.
- Saves Time: During cold months, remote start can save time by warming the car and melting ice or snow on the windshield, eliminating the need for manual scraping.
Cons:
- Pollution: Running your car while unattended consumes more fuel, adding to pollution. Many systems now include auto shut-off after 10 or 15 minutes to minimize impact.
- Cost: Adding remote start as an option or aftermarket feature can be expensive, and frequent use leads to higher fuel costs.
- Legal Stipulations: In some regions, leaving a vehicle idling without a driver is illegal due to pollution and theft concerns. These laws aim to reduce environmental impact and prevent auto theft.
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Does the Audi A5 Have a Remote Start?
The Audi A5, popular among luxury car enthusiasts for its design and performance, does not come with a traditional remote start feature through a key fob. However, remote start is available on select models via the Audi Connect app.
Additionally, aftermarket kits are offered for Audi A5 models from 2018 to 2022. So, while the A5 doesn’t have a built-in remote start, it can be added through specific solutions.
Exploring the Audi A5’s Remote Start Capabilities
Having a remote start adds convenience for Audi A5 drivers, especially in hot climates like Florida. Let’s explore the options for remote start in the A5.
Availability and Functionality:
While traditional remote start is unavailable on the key fob, some higher-end models feature remote start through the Audi Connect app. This allows drivers to start the car remotely, adjust the climate, lock/unlock doors, and monitor the vehicle from a smartphone.
Aftermarket Options:
- Plug-and-Play Kits: For 2018-2022 Audi A5 models, aftermarket kits enable remote start by pressing the lock button on the original remote three times, typically allowing a runtime of 15 minutes.
- Professional Installation: These kits should ideally be installed by professionals to ensure proper functionality and compatibility with the vehicle.
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How Remote Start Works?
Remote start systems signal the car’s control module to initiate the engine. With the Audi Connect app, remote start can be activated through your smartphone, provided the vehicle is parked safely, locked, and has enough fuel.
Aftermarket Options and Legal Constraints:
In Germany, where Audi is headquartered, laws prevent cars from running unattended. This affects Audi’s remote start options globally. Audi focuses on alternatives like the Audi Advanced Key, which offers keyless entry and push-button start but does not include full remote start functionality.
Aftermarket Installation:
If your Audi A5 doesn’t come with a factory-installed remote start, aftermarket solutions are available. Dealerships and third-party providers can install retrofit kits, and the myAudi app can also be used to control remote start features from a smartphone.
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Third-Party Remote Start Options for Audi Owners
Despite Audi’s stance on the issue, owners can still have remote start systems installed by third-party providers. Many aftermarket solutions can integrate with Audi vehicles, allowing for remote starting capabilities.
However, these installations may void certain warranties and interfere with Audi’s sophisticated electronics, which are precisely calibrated for optimal performance.
An aftermarket remote start might appeal to those living in regions where cold weather is a primary concern. Still, Audi enthusiasts should consider the trade-offs in terms of warranty, safety, and vehicle compatibility before making any modifications.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Does Audi Have an Official Remote Start Feature?
Audi does not officially offer a remote start feature. Most Audi cars are made in Germany, where it is illegal to leave a vehicle running without a driver, so they cannot legally include remote start.
Is it Illegal to Idle Your Car?
Idling your car can be illegal in some states due to environmental concerns. States like Arizona, California, New York, Oregon, Texas, and Washington have laws that restrict extended idling.
Will an Aftermarket Remote Start Void My Warranty?
No, an aftermarket remote start won’t void your warranty. Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, automakers cannot void your warranty just because you use aftermarket parts, as long as they are installed correctly.
Can a Remote Starter Burn Out or Damage My Car’s Starter?
No, this is a myth. Remote starters do not harm the car’s engine or starter. A remote start is the same as starting the vehicle while seated and waiting to warm up.
Can Remote Starters Make It Easy to Steal My Vehicle?
No, modern remote starters do not make theft easier. They require the key or key fob to be present for the car to be driven. If someone tries to shift gears without the key, the vehicle will shut down.
Conclusion:
At the end of the conclusion,
Audis do not have a remote start primarily due to legal restrictions in Germany, where leaving a car running unattended is illegal. This has influenced Audi’s decision to avoid offering remote start as a standard feature.
