I just bought a 2013 RX 450h which is amazing but I find the behavior of the remote starter option where it cuts out the engine when a door is opened really unfortunate. On my last car, the car would stay started (remotely) when the doors were opened but would turn off if a pedal was pressed or the steering wheel moved without the key. I don't see why the Lexus remote starter couldn't work similarly. Does anyone know if this behavior can be reprogrammed by the dealer or otherwise?

 

I don't know for sure, but it seems this is the Lexus way of protecting us.

 

I think you're right that was the intent. It's just that it goes overboard. You could achieve the same safety by making the engine cut out when trying to hit the brake pedal to shift into drive or moving the steering wheel without a legitimate key fob in the vehicle.