On my 2018 LC, I can push a series of buttons on the remote and start the car. Any downsides?

 

none that i know of except for lexus' stupidity that when you open the door the engine shuts off.

 

If you’ve ever had your car stolen…..Then you would probably think it was a great idea.....

 

As clever as Lexus is, they certainly could enable remote starting but lock the transmission in “Park” until the car detected the key.

 

Many manufacturers have figured out how to provide a secure handoff from remote start normal run without turning off ther engine, and quite succesfully I may add. Absolutly no reason that the engine needs to shutdown to perform the secure handoff. Hell my 2006 impala does it very well and that has a standard key ignition!!

 

the car shouldn't be drivable without the key present even if the engine is running.

 

There are a host of different methods car manufacturers employ to secure the remote start. Many of which require verification that the key fob is present before allowing the car to be driven. Toyota just chose what appears to be a primary stop step in this process. You really don’t know what other security methods are engaged unless you are able to get into the car without opening the door.....

 

Hey Cooker, If you don't mind me asking. Which series of button in what particular order? Thanks!

 

Sure. Push lock button twice, then push and hold same button (I think). Only tried it once. Engine starts, then shuts off when you unlock or open a door.

 

Works on all Lexus models since MY 2018 I believe.

 

I think it only works if you still have free Lexus Enform service (3 years or something), after that you have to pay to have that works.

 

You're right! It's did not work on mine. Ehh not a big deal. Thanks!

 

Looks like you can remote start using the Lexus app too. I haven't tried it yet but am guessing it has the same limitations described here using the key fob.

 

Yes, for the app you have much longer range. After 3 years free, I think it costs around 16$/mo or something to use remote start with keyfob and the app.

 

You have to press and release the lock button two times, followed by a third press and hold. If done correctly the car will start up.

For this to work, you have to have an active Lexus Enform Remote subscription. The key fob method does not work without it. You can also start it from the Lexus app as well.

I’m not sure if there’s a different process for the post 2020 cars, but I used to be a Lexus Delivery Specialist when the 2018-2020 models were out. I haven’t kept up to date after that, nor driven the newer LC’s, but that was the process. I always recommended people use the 1, 2, 3 hold technique with the key if a person was close to the car.