Has anyone had problems remotely starting the car with their key fob? I have no trouble starting the car (2023 RX350h) from the app but when I use the fob, it only works every second or third time.

 

We had that issue as well. It would never start for us with the FOB, even after repeated attempts.


On a visit to the dealership the IT guy tried it and HE was successful. Took him 3 attempts, though. The actuation sequence is kind of fussy/picky.

He also mentioned that the car needs to be locked for the car to start...that way nefarious robbers can't jump in and drive away!

 

It is always locked when I try it. As far as the thieves, you can’t drive the car away after a remote start anyway.

 

The only times it hasn't worked for me is when I get the sequence wrong or the traction battery is too low.

 

Off topic but do you have to pay for auto start

 

No, remote start is included on the fob. I believe it is free on the app for the first 3 years and then requires a subscription.

 

When using the FOB to remote start your car, press the Lock function twice in quick succession, then press it a third time and hold it. The parking lights will start to flash and then the engine will start. The flashing lights let you know that the process has worked.

 

Tried holding down a the lock and unlock buttons, but no dice.

 

To remotely start a Gen5 Lexus RX with the key fob, you can:

1. Press and release the key fob's Lock button twice within two seconds
2. Press and hold the Lock button for at least three seconds
3. The engine will start after about 10 seconds, indicated by flashing hazard light

 

Does the FOB light up in any way to let you know t worked?

 

No, only the flashers activate on the car.

 

Since we don’t have our ‘25 RX450H+ yet, a few questions. We will have it in the cold part of the year (January) we are looking forward to using this feature.

So, #1 - when you remote start a RX450H+, being a plug in hybrid, does the ICE begin to run to warm coolant to heat the cabin?
#2 - Or does this activate a heat pump to heat (or cool as desired) the cabin?
#3 - If the heat pump is activated, it gets its power from the traction battery? (Not the 12V battery I hope) Or does the ICE start?

Any insight to the nitty gritty of how the remote start works is appreciated.

 

I can answer for the 350h - yes ice runs on remote start.

 

I think I tried once with the fob to see if it worked like my previous RX and it did not. I have not really fooled with it as it is something I don't typically use. However, I used the app a few times for remote start and it worked fine.

I admit it does come in handy in cold or hot climates at times.

 

But will you pay for the subscription to use the app to auto start after the free three years? That's when you'll probably go to the fob.