Remote starting your Ford Explorer is a feature that can make your driving experience significantly more comfortable, especially during extreme weather. Whether it’s cold winter mornings or sweltering summer afternoons, being able to step into a car that’s already adjusted to your ideal temperature is an absolute game-changer. This guide will walk you through the various methods for remote starting your Ford Explorer, whether you prefer using your key fob or the FordPass app on your smartphone. We’ll also explore troubleshooting tips, the benefits of remote start, and more. By the end, you’ll be able to confidently start your vehicle from a distance with ease. Let’s dive in!
How to Remote Start Ford Explorer with Your Key Fob
Remote starting your Ford Explorer using the key fob is a straightforward process, but it’s important to follow the right steps for success. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Lock Your Ford Explorer
Before you can remote start your vehicle, it must be locked. Ensure all doors, including the trunk, are securely locked. The remote start feature will only activate if your vehicle is locked.
Step 2: Press the Remote Start Button on Your Key Fob
Locate the remote start button on your Ford key fob. This button typically has a circular arrow icon or the word “start” on it. Press this button twice within three seconds to initiate the remote start sequence.
Step 3: Confirm the Engine Starts
After pressing the button twice, the vehicle should start within a few seconds. You’ll know it’s working if the engine starts, and you may notice the vehicle’s lights flashing to indicate activation. If the engine doesn’t start immediately, press the button again.
Step 4: Adjust Settings with the FordPass App (Optional)
Once the vehicle has started, you can further adjust settings such as the climate control, seat heaters, or defrosters using the FordPass app. This ensures that your car is prepared for your drive before you even get inside.
Step 5: Deactivate the Remote Start
If you no longer need the car to be running, you can deactivate the remote start by pressing the remote start button once more on the key fob. Your vehicle will turn off, saving fuel and battery.
Using the FordPass App to Remote Start Your Ford Explorer
For those who prefer to use their smartphones, the FordPass app is an excellent alternative to the traditional key fob. Here’s how you can remote start your Ford Explorer with the app:
Step 1: Download the FordPass App
First, download the FordPass app from the Google Play Store (for Android) or the Apple App Store (for iOS). Install it on your phone and log in or create a Ford account if you don’t have one.
Step 2: Link Your Ford Explorer to the FordPass App
Once you’ve logged into the FordPass app, follow the on-screen instructions to add your Ford Explorer to your account. You’ll need to input your vehicle identification number (VIN), which can typically be found on the driver’s side dashboard or inside the driver’s side door.
Step 3: Activate Remote Start
Once your Explorer is linked to the app, you can remotely start your vehicle by selecting the “Remote Start” option on the app’s home screen. Tap the “Start” button, and the app will communicate with your vehicle to start it remotely.
Step 4: Adjust Climate Control and Settings
One of the best features of the FordPass app is the ability to adjust the climate control settings remotely. You can set your car’s heating or cooling systems before you even step inside, ensuring maximum comfort.
Step 5: Turn Off the Engine
Just like with the key fob, you can turn off the vehicle using the FordPass app. Simply tap the “Stop” button to turn off the engine and ensure your vehicle is powered down when you’re done.
Benefits of Remote Starting Your Ford Explorer
Remote starting your Ford Explorer comes with several perks. Here are the key advantages:
1. Comfort and Convenience
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Cold Weather: Remote start allows you to heat your car on cold winter days, so you don’t have to step into a freezing car.
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Hot Weather: In hot climates, you can cool down your vehicle in advance, making your drive much more comfortable.
2. Security
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Vehicle Lock: Since the vehicle must be locked for remote start to work, it ensures that your car remains secure while starting remotely.
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Decreased Theft Risk: By remotely starting your car, you can monitor its status and make sure it’s secure from a distance.
3. Fuel and Battery Efficiency
Modern Ford Explorer models are designed to manage fuel and battery efficiently while using the remote start function. While the car is idle, it won’t burn excessive fuel, making it a more eco-friendly feature.
Common Problems and How to Troubleshoot Remote Start Issues
If your Ford Explorer isn’t remote starting as expected, here are a few things to check and troubleshoot:
1. Low Key Fob Battery
If your key fob has a weak or dead battery, it may not communicate properly with your vehicle. Replace the battery in your key fob and try again.
2. Vehicle Settings
Sometimes the vehicle settings may be configured to disable remote start, either from the factory or as a result of a recent update. Check your vehicle’s settings to ensure remote start is enabled.
3. Distance Limitations
The key fob has a limited range, usually within a few hundred feet of the vehicle. Ensure you’re within the appropriate range when trying to activate remote start.
4. Obstructions or Interference
If you’re trying to remote start your Ford Explorer from inside a building or your garage, interference from walls or other objects could prevent the signal from reaching your vehicle. Try moving to a location with a clear line of sight to the car.
5. FordPass App Connectivity
Ensure that your FordPass app is connected to your vehicle and that you have an active internet connection. If there are connectivity issues, the app may not function correctly.
Ford Explorer Remote Start Settings and Customization Options
The Ford Explorer offers a range of customizable settings to make your remote start experience even more personalized. These include:
1. Climate Control Settings
Using the FordPass app, you can adjust the temperature settings, activate seat warmers, or even adjust the steering wheel heater, depending on your vehicle’s configuration.
2. Start Time Settings
In some models, you can set a timer for the remote start to activate automatically at a certain time. This feature can be useful if you want your car to start and be ready by the time you leave the house in the morning.
3. Fuel and Battery Efficiency
Ford vehicles are designed to optimize fuel consumption when using remote start. However, it’s important to remember that extended periods of idling can still drain the battery, so be mindful of how long you leave the vehicle running.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I remote start my Ford Explorer without the key fob?
Yes, if your vehicle is linked to the FordPass app and your phone has a stable internet connection, you can remote start your Ford Explorer from your smartphone.
2. How far can I remote start my Ford Explorer?
The range of the remote start depends on the signal strength of your key fob or smartphone. Typically, the range for a key fob is around 300 feet, while the FordPass app range depends on your internet connection.
3. Is the remote start function available on all Ford Explorer models?
The remote start feature is available on most newer Ford Explorer models. Check your vehicle’s user manual to see if your model supports this feature.
4. Does using remote start drain the car battery?
Using remote start won’t significantly drain your car battery. However, extended idling can use more battery, so it’s best not to leave the engine running for long periods.
5. Can I control the climate settings remotely with the FordPass app?
Yes, the FordPass app allows you to control the climate, including adjusting the temperature, turning on seat heaters, and activating the steering wheel heater, depending on your vehicle’s features.
Conclusion
Remote starting your Ford Explorer is a convenient and time-saving feature that offers comfort, security, and a more pleasant driving experience. Whether you prefer to use your key fob or the FordPass app, both methods are simple and effective. If you encounter any issues, troubleshooting steps can help ensure everything runs smoothly. By taking advantage of this feature, you can ensure that your vehicle is always prepared for your next drive, regardless of the weather. Enjoy the added comfort and convenience of a remote-started Ford Explorer today!
