Remote start- Whiteface Ford has a deep concern

I would note that Germany fixed this problem, I'm sure it'll come to the US eventually.
Co-worker is from Europe and we were discussing remote start. Another co-worker has a newer Toyota and the key-fob-remote-start works on it though Toyota doesn't seem to publicize this much. The one from Europe mentioned his car has remote start but a) he doesn't like letting cars idle (he starts his and drives off in 2 seconds, no matter the temperature) and b) "remote start isn't allowed in Europe". Well, to clarify, it's not that remote starting isn't allowed, but you're not allowed to leave vehicles idling.
 
You'e saying you can set the app to start the vehicle at some future time? If so, that is a really stupid "feature".
That's not entirely accurate. I'll guarantee you that no automaker app has a "schedule a remote start" function. Not sure about Android, but on iPhone, use the "Shortcuts" app to launch an app at a scheduled time. Problem is, that's all it does - launch the app. It can't do anything else, i.e. control the app, do things inside the app. I think the claim in the OP's link is probably fake drama.

Our Toyota tells us if the windows are down, moonroof is open, doors are unlocked, etc. It won't remote-start if the doors are unlocked, I know that for sure. I might test the hood-open-remote-start this evening.... or door-open....
Looks like Toyota isn't dumb like Ford when it comes to this. The remote start via the app seems to have multiple fail-safes.
  • I opened the hood, tried to remote-start, and it first fails because the doors aren't locked.
  • Tried to remotely lock the doors - fails because the hood is open.
  • With hood still open, used the key fob to lock the doors. This works.
  • With hood open, tried to remote start, and get this message:
1771382322133.webp
 
Here's the video:

According to multiple comments, remote-start doesn't work if the hood is open so this is all kind of moot....

As far as scheduling remote starts, uhhh, yeah, apparently that's something stupid that Ford designed into their app ! There are so many reasons this should NOT be possible.
 
That's not entirely accurate. I'll guarantee you that no automaker app has a "schedule a remote start" function. Not sure about Android, but on iPhone, use the "Shortcuts" app to launch an app at a scheduled time. Problem is, that's all it does - launch the app. It can't do anything else, i.e. control the app, do things inside the app. I think the claim in the OP's link is probably fake drama.


Looks like Toyota isn't dumb like Ford when it comes to this. The remote start via the app seems to have multiple fail-safes.
  • I opened the hood, tried to remote-start, and it first fails because the doors aren't locked.
  • Tried to remotely lock the doors - fails because the hood is open.
  • With hood still open, used the key fob to lock the doors. This works.
  • With hood open, tried to remote start, and get this message:
View attachment 324865
Guarantee you say?

IMG_1195.webp
 
Thanks for posting. Looks like the up to TEN different start times can be programmed. Brainless. Ford will be sued for this, and rightfully so. Just wait.

Scott
Of course anyone can sue for anything but why would this open them up to a lawsuit?
 
Neither my Jeep or Mercedes will remote start if the doors, hood or trunk are open.
 
That's not entirely accurate. I'll guarantee you that no automaker app has a "schedule a remote start" function. Not sure about Android, but on iPhone, use the "Shortcuts" app to launch an app at a scheduled time. Problem is, that's all it does - launch the app. It can't do anything else, i.e. control the app, do things inside the app. I think the claim in the OP's link is probably fake drama.

View attachment 324865
BMW allows for scheduled remote start.

1000001557.webp
 
As a software engineer does not seem far fetched to add logic by vin likely stored or other vehicle unique id to block remote start which is likely a cloud application.

Also add an interface for service to lock it out if they choose with a reasonable expiration date/time because they will forget to remove.
 
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It'd be better, for all shops (Indy's too), if remote start was tied to a GPS coordinate / proximity. You set a Home address and it only works there.
 
Neither my Jeep or Mercedes will remote start if the doors, hood or trunk are open.
Lol, but the Jeep will remote start if the doors are off. Funniest thing ever. Also slams you into park if you open the door while you are driving (like backing up to something etc). But take the doors off and no issues!
 
It'd be better, for all shops (Indy's too), if remote start was tied to a GPS coordinate / proximity. You set a Home address and it only works there.
My wife would object to that.... 😂 Depending on the weather (really cold or really hot), she remote starts it at work, at the grocery, etc.
 
In case there was any doubt I just tried starting my 2025 Bronco with the app and the hood open. It didn’t start, just honked the horn 2 times five seconds apart.
 
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