Your 2020 Toyota RAV4 May Have Remote Engine Start – and You Might Not Even Know
I recently created a video for my “Toyotajeff” YouTube channel on remote engine start that has been popular with viewers. I got the idea from the many comments and questions I get on the topic.
In fact, over the past few years, whether a vehicle has or does not have factory-installed remote start is probably the most common question I get. Well, besides whether a model comes with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Toyota RAV4 is the best-selling SUV in the country. It is smooth and comfortable and versatile. Plus, it is loaded with safety and technology features.
But does it come with remote engine start?
People are trying this 2020 RAV4 trick
I am far from old school, but I was late to the game learning about the term “life hack.” A life hack is a trick or technique people use make things easier or simpler.
For example, you can use your sunglasses to prop up your cell phone so you can watch it without having to hold it. Or use Doritos for campfire kindling if you do not have anything else to use.
And you can start your Toyota remotely with your key fob.
Since I uploaded my video, people have been trying it and giving their results in the comments section.
“Works on my XSE Hybrid.” Reported Terrance.
Lunar Skrudder had similar success. “Works on my 2019 Adventure. Big mahalos Toyotajeff. You know what’s good.”
Jose added. “My local Toyota dealer never told me about this feature on my 2020 Corolla XSE ‘til I watched your channel. I have JBL premium sound system.”
Katie replied to Jose. “Mine didn’t either. I have learned a lot about my RAV4 from Jeff.”
Toyota RAV4 Remote Start
Remote engine start is beneficial for many reasons. I find it most useful for starting your vehicle a few minutes early when it is very hot or cold outside. This process allows the heating or air conditioning to run, making inside cabin temperature more tolerable when you get inside your car.
Many 2020 Toyota RAV4 models have this feature when they buy it. Here is the best way to tell.
Your RAV4 multimedia system of either Audio Plus or Premium Audio will give you factory remote engine start. An 8-inch touch screen will be the key feature to look for.
Base Toyota Audio systems will not have remote start. These systems include a slightly smaller 7-inch screen. This means vehicles like RAV4 LE and LE Hybrid do not have it.
How to make it work
Starting your car remotely is a simple process, although it does take “a bit of a touch” as you learn and perfect your technique.
Hold your key fob in front of your RAV4 and press “LOCK” and then “LOCK” again and then hold down “LOCK.” Keep it held down until you see the lights flashing. A few seconds later your engine will start up.
Note: a Toyota Hybrid will start a bit differently. You will first hear the electric motor humming for 5 to 10 seconds before the gasoline engine starts. My video below demonstrates this.
VIDEO: See if your RAV4 has remote engine start in my demo video.
Remote start on other Toyota models
You may also be able to remotely start your vehicle from your smart phone or smart watch using Remote Connect on your Toyota app. Give it a try as well.
I encourage you to test this life hack to see if it works for your car, truck or SUV. You may have great luck with your Camry and Highlander and 4Runner.
In fact, you may want to try this for other brand vehicles as well. Every once in awhile I hear from someone who has done it successfully on other makes.
Time for your thoughts on Toyota RAV4
Thanks for watching everyone. I am looking forward to seeing if remote start works on your car. Please report back with your findings.
See you next story when I talk about the one feature I wish would have been added to 2021 4Runner.
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